THE MANNER OF LIFE – A Friend of the Cross
THE MANNER OF LIFE
A STUDY OF PHILIPPIANS
A Friend of the Cross
August 14th, 2022
Pastor Mike Slater
THE MANNER OF LIFE – A Friend of the Cross.
If a person had to write a pamphlet on Christianity based on your lifestyle in Jesus, what would the main points of the pamphlet be? How long or short would it be? How precise or vague? What would be the main topics?
When you think about how people learn about Jesus, outside of the Bible, the main source of knowledge are people. People like you and me. Value is placed on our testimonies and lifestyle. Next to the Bible, we are the main public relations source for God. We are either are a positive or negative public relations for God.
This morning, we are going to look at our witness and lifestyle in Christ lived out in the real world. As Paul talks about this issue, he draws a conclusion that we can either be a friend of the cross or an enemy of the cross.
Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14 – “You are the light of the world. This light should not be hidden under a bushel but exposed for all to see.” Our witness within our world is of tremendous value and importance. Concerning Christ, many are drawing conclusions by our lifestyle and actions.
Enjoy this morning’s worship service and the moment of writing encouragement cards. Good to be with you this morning.
Encouraging One Another,
Pastor Mike
Key Scripture: Philippians 3:17-4:1
17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. 18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodiesso that they will be like his glorious body.
Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity
4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!