Shining as Stars

Two weeks ago, we celebrated Resurrection Day. My prayer has been that we would celebrate Christ’s resurrection daily as we live out the “Christ life.” Living in this manner brings continual joy to our lives, and it provides hope to those around us. When we seek to have the Mind of Christ, our lives move from selfishness to selflessness. We begin to see people and situations, good or bad, as opportunities to serve our King. Today, we move to a section of Scripture that many only skim through. Paul deals with a problem that most people are stuck neck-deep in…complaining and arguing. These two things are prevalent in our day, and as Christ-followers, we must understand that both hinder our ability to share the Gospel effectively. Our message title is “Shining as Stars,” and our points will be: Working Out Your Salvation Shining as Stars Rejoicing Always Main Scripture: Philippians 2:12-18 Supporting Texts: Philippians 1:4-6, Judges 17:6, Romans 3:10-12, Romans 8:6-8, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:2, 2 Peter 3:14, 2 Peter 1:3-4, John 6:63, John 15:11-12, Jeremiah 7:18-19, Romans 5:3-5, Romans 8:9, John 14:16, Galatians 5:22 Diving Deeper. After listening to today's message, consider asking yourself the following questions: What does Paul mean when he says: “…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling?” Who is active in sanctification? Explain. Do those around you see you “Shining as Stars?” How often do you argue or complain? Explain. How can you live in a manner that others see you “holding out the Word of life?” Do you find yourself “Rejoicing Always?” Explain.