Our missions pastor preached this morning and delivered a good message about our identity in christ.

 

Philippians 3:2-11

 

Who are you, really? … A son or daughter. A brother or sister. A mother or father. A teacher? Programmer? Contractor? … But what if circumstances change? If your kids grow up and leave or you lose your job, does your identity change? 

 

Big Idea: The more you know Christ, the better you’ll know yourself.

 

  1. Say “No” to Lesser Identities (Philippians 3:2-3) … Some people were teaching that salvation required Jesus plus following Jewish traditions. Their identity relied on Jesus plus these traditions. We might not be tempted by the Jewish traditions, but we have other things we like to add to Jesus. A successful career. Athletic achievements. Raising a family. These aren't bad things at all, but they are lesser things than Jesus. 
  2. Let Go of Past Achievements (and failures) (Philippians 3:4-7). … Paul lists all of his achievements in Judaism and shows how he exceeds any of the ones teaching Jesus plus tradition. He also lists his failures. But our identities shouldn't be found in these temporary things. 
  3. Rest in What Jesus Has Done (Philippians 3:8-9). … The only righteousness we need is the righteousness that comes from faith in Christ. That is where our identity is found. There is nothing we can do that will ever add up to the value of that righteousness. It is a gift given by grace and received through faith. It is a reset for our lives and it gives us a new identity that is more valuable than any other. We become heirs of God, brothers and sisters of Christ. 
  4. Get to Know Jesus Better (Philippians 3:10-11). … If Paul's goal was to know Jesus, it probably should be ours too. Knowing Christ is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey. 

Two Pathways for Spiritual Growth:

  1. Resurrection Power … Some of our spiritual growth comes from just spending time in the Word and prayer, learning more about Jesus through His resurrection. 
  2. Suffering … Some growth only comes through suffering. Like an athlete training for a big event, suffering is sometimes required for growth. 

 

How to live this out:

  1. Reflect: Where do you find your identity? 
  2. Pray: Surrender false identities to Jesus. 
  3. Walk: Live in the truth that you are loved and secure in Christ. 

 

For Further Study/Resources Used to Prepare This Message

  • Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. NICNT. Eerdmans. by Gordon Fee. 
  • Philippians (2nd ed.). BECNT. Baker Academic, by Moise Silvia
  • Basics for Believers: An Exposition of Philippians by D.A. Carson
  • Exalting Jesus in Philippians by Tony Merida and Francis Chan.