Category: Discipleship
Subject: Discipleship
I Press On
“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me” (Philippians 1:12). Paul’s words here are often passed over in favor of quoting the two that follow. “Brethren I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (1:13-14).
But, verse 12 adds much to the thought Paul is expressing in the text. Primarily, it states the fact that Paul had not yet attained whatever “that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me” is. What is it? The glorious prize! The crown of righteousness!
You have two religious attitudes that prevail in our day. The first is the view that because I have been saved, the attaining of the goal is a fait accompli. I may should press on, but I don’t have to press on. I am saved. I am going to heaven. My eternal destiny is set.
The second is that expressed by Paul in our text. He was saved, but he knew that the crown of righteousness had not yet been awarded. As such, he lived with purpose. He sought daily to maintain his relationship with the Lord, pressing forward to attain the goal. He did not want to become a castaway! (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:27). Paul’s attitude is the correct one. Don’t presume, get to work!
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Sermon: Being a Child of God
Speaker: Tommy Davis
There is a great cause for joy when one is a child of God!
Sermon: What We Are
An examination of our identity as Christians.
Sermon: Fishers of Men
The text of Luke 5:1-11 is examined, noting a conversation Jesus had with Simon Peter, and a notable miracle. Peter, Andrew, James & John all became Jesus’ disciples at this time.
Sermon: People of the Way
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The various ways that Christians are described – As disciples, saints, brothers, believers, sons of God – all teach important lessons regarding our relationship and obligations to God.
Sermon: What if I am a One Talent Man?
Regardless of my talent, I have value to the Lord. I am to be a good steward, and I am promised a wonderful reward!
Sermon: Jesus’ Call – “Follow Me”
The concept of discipleship, with its sacrifices as well as its rewards, is summed up in words Jesus spoke numerous times in Matthew’s gospel, “Follow Me.”
The Practice of Discipline
In Romans 16:17, Paul wrote, “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.”
Some would take this as a mere suggestion, that can be heeded or rejected at our whim. However, we note that Paul was writing this by inspiration. As such this is the urging of the Holy Spirit, not to be taken lightly.
Others had rejected Paul’s instructions regarding disciplining the unruly. The Corinthians had ignored Paul’s admonition to withdraw themselves from a sexually immoral brother (cf. 1 Corinthians 5). In response, Paul wrote, “And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he who has done this deed might be taken away from among you” (vs. 2). Later in the text, he wrote, “Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?” (vs. 6).
When we reject the Holy Spirit’s admonition to discipline the disorderly, we are prideful. Such pride is sinful, and such action is willful. We are not at liberty to disregard God’s instructions on this or any other matter!
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Sermon: Following at a Distance
Speaker: Brantley Gallman
Peter’s failing in Luke 22:54, where he “followed at a distance” serves as an object lesson to us.
Sermon: Applying the Fruit of the Spirit to our Lives
Sermon by Bob Ward
Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit. This lesson examines each attribute, with a call to apply them to our lives.
Sermon: Desiring to Know the Will of God
In spiritual matters, we must be moved by faith’s constant desire to know God’s will. We must be true disciples (learners) of Jesus Christ.
Sermon: Who Are We?
Divinely revealed characteristics of what a true Christian is.
Sermon: Integrity
The sermon shows that we must walk in integrity (cf. Psalm 26:11) toward ourselves, others, and ultimately, God.
