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  CITIZENS OF HEAVEN!
  by Theodore Epp
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Summary: The sermon emphasizes that believers, as citizens of heaven,
should focus their minds on heavenly matters rather than earthly
distractions.

Topics: "Heavenly Citizenship", "Focus on Eternal Things"
Scripture References: Philippians 3:17

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DESCRIPTION
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Theodore Epp emphasizes that as believers, our true citizenship is in
heaven, and we should focus on heavenly things rather than earthly
distractions. He draws parallels between the faith of the patriarchs and
our current journey, urging us to seek the eternal city designed by God.
Epp warns against those who prioritize earthly desires, labeling them as
enemies of the cross, and encourages believers to align their thoughts
with the teachings of Christ. He reminds us that while we live on earth,
our lives should reflect our heavenly calling, as we await Christ's
return with confidence.

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CONTENT
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Philippians 3:17-21

All of us who have believed in Christ, like the patriarchs, are "looking
for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God"
(Heb. 11:10, NASB).

Believers of old were "seeking a country of their own" (v. 14, NASB),
and we, too, are seeking a heavenly country. Even though we reside on
earth, our legal residence is in heaven.

Therefore, our minds should be on that which originates in heaven rather
than on that which originates on earth.

Paul told of those whose minds were on earthly things. He referred to
them as "enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose
god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their
minds on earthly things" (Phil. 3:18,19, NASB).

In contrast to this kind of people, the believer is to follow the
injunctions of Colossians 3:1-3: "If then you have been raised up with
Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the
right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things
that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ
in God" (NASB).

Jesus Himself prayed, "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven"
(Matt. 6:10). Jesus was concerned about God's will being carried out,
not just in the end times but also now in the believer.

So whereas the pattern of our life is heavenly, the practice is here on
earth.

"And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we
may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming" (1
John 2:28).

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/theodore-epp/citizens-of-heaven/
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