August VanRyn

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The Apostle Paul's purpose in life was to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, a purpose rooted in being found in Christ rather than in one's own righteousness. This position in Christ grants divine righteousness, which is the foundation for a threefold ambition: to know Christ, to experience the power of His resurrection, and to share in the fellowship of His suffering. This ambition involves a continuous self-denial and a striving for conformity to Christ's death, not in a physical sense, but in a life of denying oneself for the blessing of others. The ultimate goal is to live in such a way that Christ is glorified, drawing others to Him through one's example and actions.

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The Apostle Paul's passion was to know Christ above all else, counting all his former achievements and status as loss for the surpassing worth of this knowledge. He contrasts his own confidence in the flesh with his newfound confidence in Christ's righteousness, which comes through faith. This 'super-knowledge' of Christ is not merely intellectual but experiential, transforming one's character and leading to a life of love, sinlessness, and conformity to Christ. The sermon emphasizes that true knowledge of God is found in knowing Jesus Christ, which is life itself and the ultimate pursuit for every believer.

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Treasures in heaven are contrasted with earthly treasures, which are subject to corruption and theft by moths, rust, and thieves. The sermon emphasizes that where one's treasure lies, there the heart will follow, urging listeners to invest in eternal riches rather than temporal possessions. It warns against procrastination in spiritual matters, likening it to a thief of eternity, and highlights that unused spiritual gifts and resources become vulnerable to decay and loss. The ultimate treasure is Christ himself, and a heart devoted to Him leads to laying up treasures in heaven, resulting in eternal joy and reward.

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The Christian life, as presented in Philippians chapter 3, is a journey from birth to the Lord's return, marked by joy and the pursuit of Christ. The sermon emphasizes that true Christian joy is found not in circumstances or material possessions, but in the Lord Himself and all that is associated with Him. This joy is an essential strength for believers, providing resilience amidst trials. However, this joy is imperiled by three dangers: association with the world ('dogs'), false teachings ('evil workers'), and a negative, self-reliant approach to faith ('the concision'). Believers are urged to guard their joy by staying close to God's Word and recognizing the voice of Christ amidst deception.

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The Apostle Paul's life and writings serve as an example of selfless weeping for others, contrasting with self-pity. Paul, like Christ and other biblical figures, wept not for himself but for the lost souls and spiritual state of others. It highlights that true Christian sorrow is directed outward, reflecting Christ's own tears for humanity. Ultimately, believers are called to share in Christ's triumphant procession, becoming a sweet savor of His knowledge to the world, whether it leads to life or death for those who encounter it.