Pursuit of Christ
Pursuit of Christ5
The Great Prize (Philippians 3:1-6)
By T. Austin-Sparks0PHP 3:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the pursuit of knowing Christ as the ultimate prize in the Christian life, drawing from Paul's declaration in Philippians that to live is Christ. He explains that gaining Christ involves being conformed to His image, which is the goal of salvation and requires active pursuit. Sparks contrasts Paul's choice to prioritize Christ over earthly possessions with the rich young ruler's decision to turn away from Jesus, highlighting the transformative power of Christ's resurrection in enabling believers to overcome worldly distractions. He encourages believers to embrace suffering as a pathway to glory and to recognize that true fulfillment comes from aligning with God's purpose of conformity to Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deepening relationship with Christ, where He becomes everything to the believer.
Winning Christ.
By Andrew Bonar0PSA 1:2ISA 40:31MAT 13:44JHN 5:39ROM 5:192CO 5:21GAL 3:13PHP 3:8COL 3:4REV 2:28Andrew Bonar preaches on the profound pursuit of 'Winning Christ,' emphasizing that it is not merely about finding Christ or being found in Him, but about continually seeking to gain the riches and glory that come from a deep relationship with Him. He reflects on the Apostle Paul's journey, illustrating how Paul, after thirty years in Christ, remained focused on winning Christ and discovering His unsearchable riches. Bonar encourages believers to explore the depths of Christ's person, obedience, and suffering, and to engage in daily pursuit to avoid spiritual stagnation. He urges both believers and the unsaved to recognize the urgency of this pursuit, as it leads to true joy, growth, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Christ the All-Dominating Object and Prize
By T. Austin-Sparks0PHP 2:5PHP 3:8PHP 3:13T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of having the mind of Christ as the central focus for believers, urging them to let go of earthly attachments and seek the ultimate prize of knowing Christ. He highlights the continuity of thought in Philippians, where Paul encourages unity among believers through a shared passion for Christ, contrasting it with those who prioritize their own interests. Sparks points out that true unity is not about uniformity but about a collective pursuit of Christ, which transcends individual differences. He reminds the congregation that their citizenship is in heaven, and this should shape their lives and priorities. Ultimately, the sermon calls for believers to allow their heavenly nature to dominate their earthly existence.
The Prize Is Worth It All
By David Wilkerson0MAT 6:19JHN 15:5ROM 8:181CO 9:24PHP 3:8COL 3:22TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 5:10David Wilkerson emphasizes that the Christian life is a race where the true prize is the knowledge of Jesus Christ, rather than worldly success or acclaim. He warns against competing with one another for prosperity, which corrupts the race and diminishes Christ's role in our lives. Wilkerson reflects on the humility and perseverance of early Christians who endured suffering for the sake of Christ, asserting that the ultimate reward is worth any sacrifice. He encourages believers to renounce worldly ambitions and focus on obtaining more of Jesus, leading to true contentment and happiness. The sermon calls for a refocusing of priorities to seek the true prize in Christ.
What Is Your Target
By Stephen Kaung1.2K1:05:02ECC 1:2ECC 12:13PHP 3:14Stephen Kaung emphasizes the importance of pursuing a higher goal in life, drawing from Philippians 3:14, where Paul speaks of striving for the heavenly prize in Christ Jesus. He contrasts earthly pursuits such as wealth, fame, and pleasure with the ultimate fulfillment found in knowing Christ, echoing King Solomon's conclusion in Ecclesiastes that all is vanity without God. Kaung encourages believers to actively pursue a relationship with Christ, highlighting that true passion comes from the love of Christ that compels us to live for Him. He warns against complacency and urges the congregation to prepare for the Lord's return by living a life that reflects their commitment to God. The sermon concludes with a call to pursue Christ with passion, reminding the audience of the eternal significance of their choices.