Are We There Yet?

“Soul Satisfaction—A Study in Philippians” Are We There Yet? Philippians 3:12-4:1     Paul’s Confession . . .   1.    As followers of Christ, we are not perfect like Christ.(v.12) ·         We are all in process.  (Philippians 1:6, 9-11; 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 13:11-12)   2.    As followers of Christ, we should live in constant pursuit of fully knowing and becoming like Christ. (v.12-13) ·         Pursuing Christ-likeness brings much glory to God.  (2 Peter 3:18)   ·         Pursuing Christ gives evidence of a life transformed by Christ, and the power of His Spirit in us. o   It displays the truth of the gospel to a culture in need of God’s great salvation. (Philippians 2:14-16)   ·         We press on by not becoming distracted by what we have considered loss. (v.13)   ·         We press on by fixing our eyes on Christ who is the prize of surpassing worth. (v.13-14) (Hebrews 12:1-2)   3.    As followers of Christ, those who are maturing in their faith are determined to pursue knowing Christ. (v.15-16) ·         A maturing follower of Christ realizes his/her imperfection. ·         A maturing follower of Christ refuses to settle in his/her faith. ·         A maturing follower of Christ recognizes the conviction of the Spirit of God.   Paul’s Challenge . . .   ·         Be careful to follow the example of those who are running the race well and growing in their faith.(v.17-19) o   It is crucial that a follower of Christ has someone who challenges and encourages them to pursue Christ. §  Be careful of those who have become distracted and are chasing after what is counted loss. §  Remember that we are awaiting the prize of eternity with Christ, who is of surpassing worth. §  In your pursuit of Christ, stand firm.     Making it Practical . . .   1.    I’m not where I need to be spiritually, but I am in process.  2.    As a follower of Christ, my desire should be to pursue Him with passionate determination. 3.    As I mature as a follower of Christ, I realize how far I have to go but refuse to settle where I am by remaining sensitive to the Spirit of God who is at work in me. 4.    I need to be encouraged and mentored by those who are growing in their faith, and not run the race alone.