Intro:

In In chapter one of Philippians, Paul presented to us the single mind. The single mind is one characterized by one who has his priorities of concern in this order: Jesus, Others, Yourself, for JOY.

Chapter two shows us four examples of a submissively minded Christian: first, Jesus; then Paul, Timothy and Epaphroditus.

In the third chapter, we are confronted with the spiritually minded man. The chapter is conveniently divided into three parts dealing with sanctification: sanctification past, instantaneous at the new birth; sanctification present, or progressive sanctification in that we are being saved from the Dower of sin daily; finally, sanctification future or glorification, the redemption of our bodies or complete sanctification.

 

Outline of The Chapter:

I. (1-11) Past - Instantaneous Sanctification - Salvation - (1 Cor. 6:11)

II. (12-16) Present - Progressive Sanctification - Separation - (2 Peter 3:18)

III. (17-21) Future - Complete Sanctification - Glorification - (1 Thess. 5:23)

• Note - John Chapter 17 follows a similar outline.

   

I. SALVATION - THE CHRISTIAN'S PAST

The things of this world serve as a deadly diversion for the lost man to keep him from being confronted with the serious condition of his lost soul. Likewise many Christians are wrapped up in things that are hindrances and stumbling block for serving the Lord Jesus Christ and maintaining a spiritual vantage point on life. Things are an important part of the discussion in chapter three: (see verses 7,8,13,19,21).

Paul shows us the difference between the lost man and saved man, and reminds us that salvation is of God.

A. The lost man may worship God ... but not in the spirit and not with knowledge. (Rom. 10:2)

B. The lost man's religion consists of a list of credits or accomplishments he has performed. Paul says "have no confidence in the flesh." (vs.

C. The lost man's righteousness is found in his religion and not in Christ. Paul says "I count all things but loss." (vs. 8,9)

D. Religion majors in rules, regulations and dogma; Bible Christianity is getting to know a person. (vs. 10) "That I may know him..." with the results: "power" and "fellowship."

The saved man or woman certainly is not perfect, but in the eyes of God, Christ righteousness has been imputed, thereby the account of man's sins is settled.

 

II. SALVATION - THE CHRISTIAN'S PRESENT

This is where we live today. What will you do today? Yesterday is gone, "forgetting those things which are behind.. I press (today) toward the mark..."

A. Paul says in verse twelve, I realize that I am not perfect, yet I am where God wants me to be, doing what He wants me to do.

B. He continues, I am not perfect, yet I am not going to let my past mistakes plague and hinder my walk with the Lord today. (1 Jn. 1:9)

C. Paul again shows that priorities are important, "I press toward the mark.

D. Let us all do likewise - "Be thus minded...walk by the same rule ... let us mind the same things." (1 Cor. 9:25-27; 1 Thess. 2:19,20; 2 Tim. 2:5).

 

III. SALVATION - THE CHRISTIAN'S FUTURE - GLORIFICATION

The hope of the Christian lies in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. His, future is my future as a joint-heir with Him. Paul says in (1 Cor. 15), if there is no resurrection, then we of all people are most miserable. If this existence were to end at the grave, what is it all about? Final and complete sanctification is the thing that keeps the Christian "looking up". "It will be worth it all, when we see Jesus."

A. Paul says until then! "Be followers together with me" and find some godly Christian you can follows as they exemplify the life of Christ. (I Cor. 4:16; Phil. 4:9; 1 Cor. 11:1; 1 Thess. 1:6)

B. He warns them not to look at all Christians, for many are enemies of the cross as carnal Christians. (vs. 18,19) Be selective in associations.

C. Paul reminds them that their life or "conversation" is a testimony in heaven "from whence we look for the Saviour." Paul has an attitude of imminent expectancy. Paul never talked or lived as though he had Plenty of time, in fact on the contrary, he reminded us that we should "redeem the time". Moments are so precious. We have no time to lose. All we do, should accomplish a needed Purpose in our relationship with Jesus Christ, others, and provide for our own personal spiritual and Physical benefit.

D. "Who shall change our vile body ... "He is able". (1 Cor. 15:43-58; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 Jn. 3:2; Rom. 8 29).

I. Salvation - Past - delivered from the punishment of sin.

II. Salvation - Present - delivered from, the Power of sin.

III. Salvation - Future - delivered from the presence of sin.

 

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