Rock Harbor Christian Fellowship
Focused on a Higher Priority - Philippians 1:12-20
Locations & Times
Rock Harbor Christian Fellowship
1475 Quintana Rd, Morro Bay, CA 93442, USA
Sunday 8:30 AM
Sunday 10:00 AM
Big Idea: Fulfilling our calling requires that we don’t get thrown off by deception or distraction but maintain a clear focus on our priorities.
I. Focused on the Gospel (vv. 12-18)
A. The Philippian church was deeply concerned about Paul’s imprisonment. Paul relieves their anxiety, however, by letting them know his circumstances have furthered the Gospel. Paul’s attitude reflects a focus that is not on himself, but on a higher priority—God’s Kingdom.
A. Paul takes this approach because he clearly sees:
1. That his circumstances have informed others of the Good News of Christ Jesus (v. 13).
2. That his circumstances have encouraged others in the Good News of Christ Jesus (v. 14).
3. That his circumstances have revealed the power of the Good News of Christ Jesus (vv. 15-18; cf. 2 Cor. 1:8-11).
C. In his day, Paul had his detractors, but he didn’t dwell on them because he didn’t have time for petty rivalries or mind games. Paul was laser focused on his mission to proclaim the Gospel, plant churches, and raise up leaders for discipleship (cf. Eph. 3:7-13). As such, he rejoiced when the Gospel was preached, regardless of the motives in doing so.
II. Focused on God’s Glory (vv. 18-20)
A. Knowing the Gospel is proclaimed in any and every way leads Paul to rejoice, even in his difficult circumstances. This is because Paul is ultimately focused on God’s glory and not his own and he is confident of God’s presence and power in his life.
B. Paul has confidence in:
1. The prayers of the Philippians (v. 19; cf. Col. 4:2-4).
2. The power of the Holy Spirit (v. 19; cf. 1 Cor. 2:1-5).
3. His victory through Jesus Christ (v. 20).
4. Knowing that God will be glorified through his obedience (v. 20).
C. It’s no secret that we can often be distracted. Electronic devices, social media, news media, and the like can rob us of attention that we should be giving to other, more important things. It’s vital that we focus on Jesus and His Word so that we can have a clear view of our priorities.
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