Simple Living
What would it be like to live where Paul was living? Not knowing from one day to the next what the next day would bring? One of the things that is so amazing about Paul and his experience, is the sense of inner peace and even joy that Paul continued to have, even though his future in many ways seemed uncertain. But what remained certain to him, even in the midst of uncertainty, was knowing that his real situation, the one that would endure beyond his current situation, was secure and certain. Listen to how he develops this in the verses to the right as he invites them to discover what it means to say, "For me to live is Christ."
Conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel
Stand firm in the Spirit
Too often, those in the Kingdom retreat from what it means to stand for the Kingdom, and what it means. During times of discrimination, too many in the faith community remain silent and look the other way. Sometimes that has meant standing up to people who lead faith communities as well as those who openly oppose them. Those of the kingdom take the risk to be like Jesus even when the community that bears His name fails to do so. They live lives worthy of the gospel. That's what pastor Pablo invites us to consider this morning.
If you would like to listen to the sermon once again (or perhaps for the first time) you can access our sermon library here. Or, if you prefer to watch the whole service, you access the live stream here.
Philippians 1:21-30
NIV
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ,which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.
27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.