Many of us are grappling with mixed emotions in the aftermath of the election—relief, disappointment, anger, fear. Political seasons can leave us divided and questioning what the future holds. But as followers of Jesus, we're called to respond differently. In this message, we turn to Philippians 3:12-21 to find guidance on how to press forward with hope and peace, anchored in the unchanging Word of God.
Scripture Focus: Philippians 3:12-21 (NLT)
Key Points:
- Press On with Purpose (Philippians 3:12-14):
- Embrace the Journey: Like Paul, we acknowledge that we're not perfect but are committed to moving forward.
- Illustration: An athlete in a marathon focuses on the finish line, not the miles ahead or behind. Similarly, we fix our eyes on Jesus.
- Quote: "When we fix our eyes on God, the things of earth become strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace." — Max Lucado
- Application: Let's not get stuck in negative emotions but continue our journey with purpose, anchored in Christ.
- Live as Citizens of Heaven (Philippians 3:20):
- Heavenly Citizenship: Our true allegiance is to God's eternal kingdom, not earthly systems.
- Illustration: Like a foreign diplomat respects their host country but remains loyal to their homeland, we represent God's kingdom here.
- Quote: "If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world." — C.S. Lewis
- Application: Let's embody the values of God's kingdom—love, justice, peace—and shine His light in a divided world.
- Hold on to the Hope of Transformation (Philippians 3:21):
- Promise of Renewal: Jesus will return and transform our broken world.
- Illustration: A sculptor envisions a masterpiece within a block of marble. God is shaping us and all creation.
- Quote: "Jesus' resurrection is the beginning of God's new project, not to snatch people away from earth to heaven but to colonize earth with the life of heaven." — N.T. Wright
- Application: In uncertain times, cling to the hope that God is at work, transforming us and the world.
Conclusion:
Amidst division and uncertainty, Jesus is our unshakable foundation. Our hope doesn't depend on earthly circumstances but on His eternal love and sovereignty. Let's press forward with hope and peace, living as citizens of heaven and reflecting Christ's love to those around us.
Next Steps:
- Reflect: How can you press on with purpose this week?
- Connect: Reach out to someone who may need encouragement.
- Pray: Ask God to help you live as a citizen of heaven and to hold onto His promise of transformation.
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At Transformation Church, we're committed to following Jesus and sharing His message of love, hope, and transformation. No matter where you are on your faith journey, you are welcome here.
Tags: #Hope #Peace #Faith #Philippians3 #PressOn #CitizensOfHeaven #Transformation #ChristianSermon #PostElection #SpiritualGrowth
Credits:
- Speaker: Pastor Harold Long
- Worship Team: Transformation Praise Band
- Production Team: Team Transformation