Christ Through the Ages, 15: Philippians–To Live is Christ

<p>For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ <a href="https://www.douglasjacoby.com/christ-through-the-ages-15-philippians-to-live-is-christ/" target="_blank"><strong>website.</strong></a></p><p>Introduction</p><ul><li>Philippians is an extremely christocentric document<ul><li>It is often commented that the theme of Philippians is joy – I count 14 or 15 instances of this word, or the idea—but I’m not so sure.</li><li>Look at how many times <i>Christ</i> is mentioned (whichever word or phrased is use in referring to Him).  This seems to be the true theme.</li></ul></li><li>Every chapter exalts Christ.<ul><li>All things through Him, and All needs supplied (4).</li><li>All things are as nothing, compared to his incomparable and surpassing greatness (3).</li><li><i>Carmen Christi</i> [the Song of Christ] (2)</li><li>Live / exalt 1:21.</li></ul></li><li>1:21 is our theme verse.</li></ul><p>Overview of chapter 1</p><ul><li>Die—Praetorian guard knew Paul's confidence</li><li>Gain—the other option</li><li>Fruitful labor</li><li>Rrogress and joy (for the saved)</li><li>Knowledge of Christ spread</li></ul><p>Why the pull in two directions?</p><ul><li>I haven’t met many brothers or sisters who feel torn.</li><li>Perhaps it’s because Paul had such an impact <i>and</i> he know his Lord so well.</li><li>We have little impact, and we don't know the one we say we worship.</li></ul><p>To live is Christ… but is it?</p><ul><li>Notice that Paul writes, “<i>For</i> <i>to</i> <i>me</i>…” This is <i>his</i> determination, his steadfast decision.</li><li>What excites me the most?<ul><li>Career advancement</li><li>Relationship with spouse</li><li>Sporting glory</li><li>Material things</li><li>Education?</li></ul></li><li>Or is it Christ?<ul><li>So much that I live with an unusual passion for Him on a daily basis?</li><li>So much that whenever and wherever he is preached, and by whomever, regardless of the character or even doctrinal soundness of the preacher, I genuinely rejoice?</li><li>So much that I evaluate my life in ter