PBPGNFWMY (Part 2)

Please Be Patient; God's Not Finished With Me Yet!
Philippians 1:6

Do you know some Christians who don't enjoy Bible Study, don't pray alone, feel bound by the "thou shalt nots" of their religion but continue on because that is what they "ought" to do.  Such a life is a tragic loss in comparison to the man liberated by Christ.  Paul says we should trust ourselves to Him to make the changes in His time and through His power

The battles we fight are not always won but keep us aware of our weaknesses and dependency on God.

You will never satisfy the religious crowd. Matthew 11:15-19

I.  Paul Rejects the Life of Religious Comparison.  Philippians 3:1-7

Some are very comfortable in the religious rut.

·      The trap of Jewish Pharisaism (following men) and Roman Catholicism (follow the church) also has retained its grip in modern day Christian legalism (follow the law).

·      The religious works of men are utter futility when compared to the acceptance by God of those who come in Christ’s righteousness. v.7

Such comparative living always creates guilt; for we always compare our weakness to another person’s strength.

II.   Paul Received the Acceptance of God in Christ.  Philippians 3:8-11

Jesus Christ is our righteousness. 

The effect of grace is not merely a desire for obedience but a sense of Divine acceptance.

Real Christianity does not flaunt its righteousness, but God’s forgiveness.

III. Paul Realized the Weakness of His Flesh.  Philippians 3:12-15

Real Christianity realizes its humanity as well as its divinity that leads to humility.

How do we maintain our balance? 

1. Acknowledge our weaknesses.  v.13a

2. Forget our past.  v.13b

3. Focus on the future.  v.13c

4. Commit to the goal. v.14

5. Listen to God, not man. v.15

Jesus Understands – Hebrew 4:14-16