Experience: Inner life of Paul #4 - To Live is Christ
In this message, Christian reflects on the Epistle to the Philippians, particularly focusing on Philippians 1:21, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." He emphasizes the importance of Christian experience, particularly in understanding the life of Paul. Christian outlines four major lessons Paul learned during his second stage of life: guidance, bearing the cross, living together with Christ, and recognizing the hindrance of the flesh. He explains that bearing the cross is an experiential lesson rather than a theoretical one. The life of faith, love, and hope is essential for sanctification, which is a process of living a holy life. Christian also discusses the significance of the flesh as a hindrance to spiritual growth, emphasizing that true growth comes from living in the Spirit rather than relying on the flesh. He concludes by discussing Paul's later life, highlighting the lessons learned through suffering and imprisonment, and the importance of being poured out as a drink offering for the faith of others. Ultimately, Christian encourages believers to embrace a life of sacrifice and service, reflecting the love of Christ.
Outline of Main Points
- Introduction to Philippians 1:21
- Importance of Christian Experience
- Four Major Lessons from Paul's Second Stage
- Guidance
- Bearing the Cross
- Living Together with Christ
- Hindrance of the Flesh
- Significance of Sanctification
- Paul's Later Life and Lessons Learned
- Encouragement to Embrace Sacrifice and Service
21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
9 For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.
10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.
17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.
