NOVEMBER 22, 2020

SERIES: MAINTAINING VALUES IN THE CRISIS
MAINTAINING THANKSGIVING JOY

Philippians 3:1-11

Verse 1 – Finally my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no
trouble for me to write the same thing to you again and it is a
safeguard for you.
THREE SAFEGUARDS FOR KEEPING YOUR JOY
I. Resist legalistic attitudes.
Definition of legalism: Substituting rules and regulations
for my relationship to Christ.
Verses 2 & 3 – Watch out for those who do evil, those dogs,
men who insist on cutting the body. We worship God by His
Spirit and rejoice in our life in Christ Jesus. We do not put
any trust in external ceremonies.
Safeguard #1: If you want to maintain your joy, live each
day in a relationship with Christ.
Paul’s Background Vs. 4-6
 You begin to trust in ritual.
 Don’t trust in race.
 Don’t trust in religion.
 Don’t trust in rules
 Don’t trust in reputation.
Romans 14:17 – For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of
eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in
the Holy Spirit.

II. Reevaluate your activities.
Verses 7-8 – But whatever was to my profit, I now consider
loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider
everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of
knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all
things. I consider them rubbish that I may gain Christ.
Safeguard #2: If you want to keep the joy of Christ alive in
your life keep your activities in perspective.
I. Refocus your ambition.
Verse 10 – I want to know Christ and the power of His
resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His suffering,
becoming like Him in His death.
3 Ways to Grow in Knowing God
 It takes time.
 It takes talk. (Prayer)
John 16:24 – Until now you have not asked for anything in
My Name. Ask and your joy will be complete.
 It takes trust.