Messages and Notes

Sermon Outline: “Unity through Humility in Christ” 

Philippians 2:1-11

Philippians is one of the “Prison Epistles” written by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment, most likely in Rome. The primary audience is the church in Philippi, a city in the Roman province of Macedonia. The church there was among the first to be established in Europe and shared a special bond with Paul, supporting him both emotionally and materially.

Background of Philippians Chapter 2:

• Close Relationship with the Philippian Church: The Philippians had a close relationship with Paul, evidenced by their financial support and genuine concern for his well-being (Philippians 4:10-18). This relationship sets the tone for the intimate and heartfelt content of the letter.

• Purpose of Writing: Paul’s intent was to thank the Philippians for their support and to encourage them in their faith. He also addresses some issues in the church, primarily unity and humility among believers.

• Joy Amidst Suffering: A recurrent theme in Philippians is joy or rejoicing in Christ despite circumstances. Even though Paul was imprisoned, his primary concern was the progress of the gospel and the spiritual maturity of the believers.

Reason for Philippians Chapter 2:

• Call to Unity: There seems to have been some level of disagreement or disunity in the Philippian church (Philippians 4:2). In Chapter 2, Paul emphasizes unity, urging believers to be “like-minded,” “having the same love,” and “being of one accord, of one mind” (Philippians 2:2).

• The Example of Christ’s Humility: As a remedy for disunity, Paul points to the ultimate example of humility: Jesus Christ. In verses 5-11, he provides a Christological hymn or creed, detailing the self-emptying (kenosis) of Christ, His humble birth, obedient death, and subsequent exaltation by God. This serves as an illustrative call for believers to adopt the same mindset of humility and sacrificial love.

• Encouragement through Timothy and Epaphroditus: Later in the chapter, Paul speaks about Timothy and Epaphroditus, two individuals who embodied the values of unity and humility that he was advocating. They serve as concrete examples of the behavior he hoped to see in the Philippians.

I. Introduction 

A. Importance of understanding “Therefore” in verse 1. 

•  Connection to previous chapter: Living a life worthy of the gospel (Philippians 1:27-30).
•  Paul’s urging to unity is grounded on the basis of their shared experiences and blessings in Christ.

II. Encouragement in Christ (v. 1) 

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:1‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 

A. What it means to be encouraged in Christ. 

B. Cross Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 – God as the source of all comfort.

• ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭1:3‭-‬5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. [5] For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 

III. The Basis for Unity (v. 1-2) 

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 

A. Love, Spirit, and Affection as foundations. 

B. Paul’s joy in seeing believers united. 

C. Cross Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:10 – Call for unity in thought and purpose.

• ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1:10‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [10] I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. 

IV. The Attitude of Humility (v. 3-4) 

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:3‭-‬4‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

A. Considering others more significant than oneself. 

B. Looking to the interests of others. 

C. Cross Reference: Romans 12:10 – Honor one another above yourselves.

• ‭‭Romans‬ ‭12:10‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [10] Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 

V. The Ultimate Example of Humility: Christ Jesus (v. 5-8) 

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:5‭-‬8‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; [7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!

A. Mindset of Christ to be emulated. 

B. Jesus’ divine nature and His willing incarnation. 

C. The depth of His humility – death on a cross. 

D. Cross Reference: 2 Corinthians 8:9 – Christ became poor for our sake.

• ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭8:9‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [9] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.

VI. The Exaltation of Christ (v. 9-11) 

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:9‭-‬11‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

A. God’s response to Jesus’ humility. 

B. The universal recognition of Jesus’ Lordship. 

C. Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess. 

D. Cross Reference: Isaiah 45:23 – Every knee shall bow.

• ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭45:23‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [23] By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear.

VII. Application 

A. The call for believers to have unity and humility, reflecting the attitude of Christ. 

B. How this transforms our relationships and community. 

C. Cross Reference: Ephesians 4:1-3 – Maintaining unity through the bond of peace.

• ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4:1‭-‬3‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. [2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. [3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

Background of 2 Corinthians 10:1-6:

The Corinthian church was a community rife with challenges. Paul had previously written to address moral issues, divisions, and questions they had regarding Christian life (1 Corinthians). However, between the first letter and 2 Corinthians, false teachers (often called “super-apostles”) had infiltrated the church, challenging Paul’s authority as an apostle and his teachings. They painted Paul as weak in presence and questioned his credentials.

2 Corinthians 10-13 is sometimes called the “severe section” of the letter, where Paul defends his apostolic authority. In 10:1-6, Paul begins this defense, contrasting the meekness and gentleness of Christ with the boldness he’s ready to display. He reminds the Corinthians that although he walks in the flesh, he doesn’t wage war according to the flesh. His reference to “strongholds” is an analogy to describe the spiritual battles believers face, particularly battles of the mind.

Key Takeaways:

1.Duality of Christian Leadership: Paul exhibits the dual qualities a Christian leader should have gentleness (reflecting Christ) and boldness (when defending the truth). This duality can be applied to believers as well, showing gentleness but standing firm in the truth.

2.Spiritual Warfare: Our battles are primarily spiritual, not physical. This emphasizes the need for spiritual readiness and discernment.

3.The Power of Divine Weapons: Believers are equipped with divine weapons that can demolish strongholds. This speaks of the effectiveness of prayer, God’s Word, and other spiritual disciplines which far surpass human strategies.

4.Mind Matters: Paul’s focus on taking every thought captive underscores the importance of the mind in spiritual battles. The ideas, beliefs, and ideologies contrary to God’s truth can become “strongholds” that hinder a believer’s walk.

5.Obedience to Christ: Every thought and action should be in obedience to Christ. Paul indicates that once collective obedience is observed, they can then deal with pockets of disobedience, which may hint at church discipline.

In essence, 2 Corinthians 10:1-6 highlights the necessity of recognizing the spiritual nature of our battles and equips believers with the understanding to face these battles head-on, particularly in the realm of the mind.

Sermon Outline: “Taking Every Thought Captive”2 Corinthians 10:1-6

I. Introduction

Paul’s defense of his apostolic authority.

The spiritual nature of our battles and the weapons we use.

II. Paul’s Gentle and Bold Approaches (2 Corinthians 10:1-2)

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:1‭-‬2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] By the humility and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” toward you when away! [2] I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world. 

Paul’s desire to be gentle but readiness to be bold.

• Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:1 “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.”

III. The Nature of Our Battle (2 Corinthians 10:3-4)

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:3‭-‬4‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [3] For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. [4] The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

Our battle is not of the flesh but spiritual.

The divine power of our spiritual weapons.

• Scripture Reference: Ephesians 6:12 – “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

IV. Demolishing Strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4b-5)

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:4‭-‬5‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [4] The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. [5] We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 

The concept of spiritual strongholds: mindsets, beliefs, and attitudes that stand against God’s truth.

Our responsibility to demolish them.

• Scripture Reference: Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

V. Taking Every Thought Captive (2 Corinthians 10:5b-6)

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:5‭-‬6‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [5] We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. [6] And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.

The importance of filtering our thoughts through the lens of Christ.

Being ready to punish every act of disobedience once our obedience is complete.

• Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

VI. Conclusion

• Reflect on the strongholds in their lives.
• Take a proactive approach in filtering thoughts and aligning them with God’s truth.
• There is victory that comes from living a life where every thought is in submission to Christ.

By grasping the essence of Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 10:1-6, believers can better understand the spiritual nature of their battles and the powerful weapons available to them. Taking every thought captive to Christ is essential for spiritual growth and victory over the world’s deceptive influences.

Week 4: “Pursuing Purpose with Passionate Prayer” (Micah)

Main Scripture: James 5:16 – “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”

Cross References:

• 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.”
• Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

Background of Micah:

Micah was a prophet in the 8th century BC, during a time when both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah were experiencing significant internal and external pressures. Micah hailed from the town of Moresheth, located in the southern kingdom of Judah. His prophecies are set against a backdrop of social injustice, corrupt leaders, and a populace that has turned away from God. Micah’s messages oscillate between judgment against sin and promises of restoration, emphasizing God’s desire for genuine faithfulness and justice.

Sermon Outline: “The Heart of True Worship” (Micah 6:1-8)

I. Introduction

• Context of Micah’s prophecy.
• A divine courtroom scene: God’s case against Israel.

II. God’s Plea to His People (Micah 6:1-5)

‭‭Micah‬ ‭6:1‭-‬5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] Listen to what the Lord says: “Stand up, plead my case before the mountains; let the hills hear what you have to say. [2] “Hear, you mountains, the Lord’s accusation; listen, you everlasting foundations of the earth. For the Lord has a case against his people; he is lodging a charge against Israel. [3] “My people, what have I done to you? How have I burdened you? Answer me. [4] I brought you up out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. I sent Moses to lead you, also Aaron and Miriam. [5] My people, remember what Balak king of Moab plotted and what Balaam son of Beor answered. Remember your journey from Shittim to Gilgal, that you may know the righteous acts of the Lord.”

• God’s questioning of Israel’s unfaithfulness.
• Reminding Israel of His faithfulness: from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 12:37-42 – Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.

• ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭12:37‭-‬42‬ ‭MSG‬‬  [37-39] The Israelites moved on from Rameses to Succoth, about 600,000 on foot, besides their dependents. Hebrews and non-Hebrews alike set out, not to mention the large flocks and herds of livestock. They baked unraised cakes with the bread dough they had brought out of Egypt; it hadn’t raised—they’d been rushed out of Egypt and hadn’t time to fix food for the journey. [40-42] The Israelites had lived in Egypt 430 years. At the end of the 430 years, to the very day, God’s entire army left Egypt. God kept watch all night, watching over the Israelites as he brought them out of Egypt. Because God kept watch, all Israel for all generations will honor God by keeping watch this night—a watchnight.

III. The People’s Response: Ritual or Righteousness? (Micah 6:6-7)

‭‭Micah‬ ‭6:6‭-‬7‬ ‭MSG‬‬  [6-7] How can I stand up before God and show proper respect to the high God? Should I bring an armload of offerings topped off with yearling calves? Would God be impressed with thousands of rams, with buckets and barrels of olive oil? Would he be moved if I sacrificed my firstborn child, my precious baby, to cancel my sin?

• The people’s misguided attempts to please God with sacrifices.
• The insufficiency of ritual without a right heart.

Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 15:22 – “To obey is better than sacrifice…”

• ‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭15:22‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [22] But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.

IV. The True Heart of Worship (Micah 6:8)

‭‭Micah‬ ‭6:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [8] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

• God’s clear requirements:
  • Act Justly.
  • Love Mercy.
  • Walk Humbly with God.
• Scripture Reference: Matthew 23:23 – Jesus’ emphasis on justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

• ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭23:23‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [23]  “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 

Note: “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” is a succinct and profound summary of what God desires from His people, as found in Micah 6:8. Each component of this directive provides a holistic approach to a life of faith and obedience. Let’s delve deeper into each part:

1. Act Justly:

Justice refers to the fair and equitable treatment of all people, regardless of their status, race, gender, or background. In a biblical context, acting justly often means standing up for the oppressed, the marginalized, and those who cannot defend themselves. It involves advocating for fairness in societal systems and structures.

• Scripture Reference: Isaiah 1:17 – “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”

2. Love Mercy:

Mercy involves showing compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. While justice focuses on ensuring that people receive what is right and fair, mercy goes beyond that, often giving people better than what they deserve. Loving mercy means that we not only show mercy when required but take delight in being merciful, making it an integral part of our character.

• Scripture Reference: Luke 6:36 – “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”

3. Walk Humbly with God:

Humility is the recognition that we are not the center of the universe and that we are dependent on God for all things. It involves submitting our wills, desires, and plans to God’s sovereignty and guidance. To walk humbly with God means to maintain a close, personal relationship with Him, acknowledging our need for His guidance and wisdom in every aspect of our lives.

• Scripture Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Micah 6:8 encapsulates the heart of genuine faith: a life marked by righteous actions, compassionate interactions, and a deep, dependent relationship with God. It challenges believers to go beyond mere religious rituals and to embody these principles in their daily lives, reflecting the character of God in all they do.

Relevant Takeaways:

1. Inward Transformation over Outward Ritual: God values the condition of our hearts over the quantity of our rituals. Religious practices should stem from a transformed heart.

2. Integrated Faith: Our faith in God should influence every aspect of our lives, ensuring that our actions are just and merciful.

3. Walking with God: True worship isn’t limited to a specific day or place; it’s a daily, humble walk with God.

4. Challenge for Self-Reflection: Let us examine our lives in the light of Micah 6:8, considering if our actions reflect justice, mercy, and genuine humility before God.

Note: We mus prioritize a sincere relationship with God, which will naturally manifest in just and compassionate actions toward others.

Sermon Title: “Ambassadors in a Foreign Land”

SERIES TITLE: “Destined by Design: Discovering Your Divine Purpose”

Introduction:

• Setting the Scene: The challenge of living as Christians in a world that often opposes our beliefs.
• Scriptural Foundation: ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:11‭-‬12‬ ‭MSG‬‬ [11-12] Friends, this world is not your home, so don’t make yourselves cozy in it. Don’t indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. Live an exemplary life in your neighborhood so that your actions will refute their prejudices. Then they’ll be won over to God’s side and be there to join in the celebration when he arrives.

The Message

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:11‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [11] Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 

I. Recognizing Our True Identity (1 Peter 2:11)

• Main Point: We are foreigners and exiles in this world.
• Supporting Scripture: Philippians 3:20 – “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
• Application: Embrace the mindset of heavenly citizenship, understanding that our time on earth is temporary.

II. The Battle Within: Resisting Sinful Desires (1 Peter 2:11)

• Main Point: Sinful desires wage war against our souls.
• Supporting Scripture: Romans 7:23 – “But I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me.”
• Application: Vigilance in prayer, reading scripture, and seeking accountability to guard against internal temptations.

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:12‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [12] Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

III. Displaying Christ in Conduct (1 Peter 2:12)

• Main Point: Let our actions be a testament to our faith.
• Supporting Scripture: Matthew 5:16 – “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
• Application: Aim for consistency in faith and deeds, ensuring our actions draw others towards Christ.

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:13‭-‬16‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [13] Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, [14] or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. [15] For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. [16] Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 

IV. Submitting to Authorities (1 Peter 2:13-17)

• Main Point: God’s call for respect and submission to human authorities.
• Supporting Scripture: Romans 13:1-2 – “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”
• Application: Displaying respect and obedience to governing bodies, understanding that God has established them, while also discerning when civil disobedience is necessary due to conflicts with God’s commands.

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [17] Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

V. Honoring Everyone: A Christ-like Attitude (1 Peter 2:17)

• Main Point: The call to show proper respect to everyone, including love for the Christian family, fearing God, and honoring the emperor.
• Supporting Scripture: Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
• Application: Demonstrating respect and love to everyone, regardless of societal status or beliefs, reflecting God’s impartial love.

From the sermon on 1 Peter 2:11-17, the key takeaways are:

1. Heavenly Citizenship: As Christians, our true identity and citizenship lie in heaven. We are foreigners and exiles on earth, which should influence our perspective and values.
2. Internal Struggle: Sinful desires constantly wage war against our souls. This battle is ongoing and requires active resistance through spiritual disciplines like prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship.
3. Consistent Testimony: Our actions and behaviors should consistently reflect our faith. Living righteous lives in a secular world can be a powerful testimony that draws non-believers to Christ.
4. Submission to Authority: God has established human authorities, and we are called to respect and submit to them. However, this submission is not blind; it’s balanced with discernment, especially if there’s a conflict between God’s commands and human rules.
5. Universal Respect: We are called to show love and respect to everyone, irrespective of their social status, beliefs, or backgrounds. This reflects God’s impartial love and helps build bridges in communities.
6. Representing Christ: In all aspects of life, from our personal interactions to our relationship with society at large, we are ambassadors for Christ. We should strive to represent Him faithfully and authentically.

Each of these takeaways invites believers to introspect, realign their actions with their faith, and actively engage with the world in a manner that glorifies God.

Call to Action:

• Self-Reflection: Analyze personal behaviors and attitudes toward those in authority and towards others in general.
• Community Involvement: Engage in community service, showing Christ-like love and respect in action.
  • Spread the Word: Share personal experiences of displaying respect and love, and the impact it had, encouraging others to do the same.

Conclusion:

• Summary: The call to live as representatives of Christ, showing honor and respect in all areas of life.
• Encouragement: While we face challenges, our conduct and demeanor can powerfully testify to our faith and God’s transformative love.
• Closing Prayer: Seeking God’s guidance in living out these principles, representing Him faithfully, and being lights in the world.