Joyous Salvation

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Rejoice in the Lord- 9

TITLE: Joyous Salvation

TEXT: Philippians 3:1-21

TONE: Encouragement

TARGET: Believers

TASK: To encourage believers to rejoice in the salvation we have in Christ.

TEACH: In the midst of a challenging and heartbreaking week filled with senseless violence and evil, our hearts are heavy with sorrow, anger, and confusion. We lift in prayer all those affected by these tragic events, asking for comfort, healing, and peace to envelop them in their time of need. As followers of Christ, we stand united against evil in the powerful Name of Jesus, declaring that darkness will not prevail in the face of His light.

 

Amidst chaos and despair, we choose to be a beacon of hope, love, and truth in a world that desperately needs it. As Christians, we refuse to be silenced by fear or intimidation. Instead, we boldly proclaim our faith, speaking out with courage and conviction in the public square. With hearts full of compassion and grace, we stand firm in our commitment to uphold truth, justice, and righteousness, even in adversity.

 

Today, we consciously decide to rejoice in the joyous salvation we have in Christ. Amid trials and tribulations, we cling to the unshakable hope and peace that can only be found in Him. Let us be encouraged and strengthened by the knowledge that our Savior reigns victorious, and His light will always overcome the darkness. Together, as a community of believers, let us continue to shine brightly, to love boldly, and to stand unwaveringly in the truth of the Gospel.

 

TEMPLATE:

 

I.               Joy in the person of Christ (Philippians 3:1-4:3)

  1. The appeal (Philippians 3:1)
  1. The warning against false circumcision and confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:2-6)
  1. The testimony (Philippians 3:7-14)
    1. The evaluation of his experience (Philippians 3:7-9)
    1. The statement of his present ambition (Philippians 3:10-11)
    1. The goal of his present strivings (Philippians 3:12-14)
  1. The exhortations (Philippians 3:15-4:3)
    1. To proper attitudes (Philippians 3:15-16)
    1. To imitation (Philippians 3:17-21)
      1. The commands:  follow and observe (Philippians 3:17)
      1. The reasons (Philippians 3:18-21)
        1. Godless examples (Philippians 3:18-19)
        1. Heavenly citizenship (Philippians 3:20-21)

 

TRUTH: Paul turns inward in this chapter and reveals intimate aspects of his personal journey. His autobiographical sketch of his conversion to Christ discloses a dramatic contrast between his previous persecution of the church as a Pharisee and his present quest to know Christ. The Christ-centered focus of the entire letter is passionately expressed as Paul tells of his strong desire to gain Christ, be found in Christ, pursue Christ, and ultimately be totally transformed by Christ. This deeply personal tone fills the passage with highly charged emotions: passionate longing to know Christ and painful tears for those who are enemies of the cross of Christ.[1]

 

The first reason salvation is joyous is because….

 

I.                             We Gain Christ.

Explanation: In Philippians 3:7-9, the apostle Paul profoundly reflects on the surpassing value of knowing Christ and the transformative power of His righteousness. This passage serves as a pivotal moment in Paul’s epistle, where he contrasts his former reliance on external achievements and religious credentials with the surpassing worth of knowing Christ personally.

 

In verse 7, Paul begins by declaring, “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” Here, Paul uses the Greek word "κέρδος" (kerdos) to refer to his previous accomplishments as “loss” (ζημία, zēmia) in comparison to the immeasurable value of knowing Christ. This radical reevaluation of his past accomplishments underscores Paul’s recognition that true gain and worth are found in Christ alone.

 

The apostle expresses his profound desire to “gain Christ” (κερδήσαι Χριστόν) above all else. This phrase encapsulates Paul’s deep longing for an intimate and transformative relationship with Jesus Christ, viewing Him as the ultimate prize and treasure. The Greek word "κερδήσαι" conveys the idea of gaining or acquiring something of great value, emphasizing the incomparable worth of knowing and being united with Christ.

 

Paul's emphasis on "gaining Christ" reflects his conviction that true spiritual riches and blessings are found in a personal relationship with Jesus. By prioritizing the knowledge of Christ and the experience of His presence, Paul underscores the transformative power of encountering the living Christ in one's life. This pursuit of gaining Christ goes beyond mere intellectual knowledge or religious observance; it entails a deep, experiential communion with the Savior that leads to spiritual growth, maturity, and conformity to His likeness.

 

Christ is of infinite worth, and all the treasures of the world are but trash in comparison to Him." - Thomas Watson

 

The doctrinal truth expressed here is Justification.

 

The second reason salvation is joyous is because….

 

II.                         We Are in Christ.

Explanation: Verse 9 begins with Paul’s declaration, “and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.” Here, Paul contrasts the self-righteousness based on adherence to the Mosaic law with the righteousness that is imputed to believers through faith in Christ. The Greek phrase "διὰ πίστεως Χριστοῦ" (dia pisteōs Christou) underscores the instrumental role of faith in appropriating the righteousness that originates from God.

 

When Paul uses the phrase "found in Him," he emphasizes the believer's identity and position in Christ. This expression conveys the idea of being located, established, or identified in Christ, indicating a deep and intimate union with Him. Paul's use of this phrase underscores the believer's spiritual reality of being united with Christ through faith and the transformative implications of this union.

 

Being "found in Him" signifies that believers are in Christ positionally and experientially. It speaks to the believer's identity as being hidden in Christ, clothed in His righteousness, and secure in their relationship with Him. This phrase highlights the believer's union with Christ as the foundation of salvation, sanctification, and ultimate hope of glory.

 

The doctrinal truth brought here is Union with Christ and Imputation of Christ.

 

"To be found in Christ is to be hidden in the shelter of His wings, safe and secure from all harm." - Richard Sibbes

 

The third reason salvation is joyous is that….

 

III.                      We Know Christ.

Explanation: In verse 10, Paul expresses his desire, "that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death." This profound statement reflects Paul's longing for a deeper intimacy with Christ and his willingness to partake in both the power of Christ's resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings. The Greek word "συμμορφιζόμενος" (summorphizomenos) conveys the idea of being conformed or made like Christ in His death, highlighting the believer's identification with Christ in His crucifixion and resurrection.

 

"know Him" (Christ) refers to a deep, intimate, and experiential knowledge of Jesus Christ. This knowledge goes beyond mere intellectual understanding or acquaintance; it encompasses a personal relationship with Christ characterized by intimacy, communion, and spiritual depth. For Paul, knowing Christ is not merely about acquiring information about Him but about experiencing His presence, power, and transformative work. It involves a profound awareness of Christ's character, teachings, redemptive work, and a heartfelt connection with Him that shapes his beliefs, attitudes, and actions.

 

The Greek word used for "know" in this passage is "γνῶναι" (gnōnai), which conveys a deep, experiential knowledge that comes from personal encounter and relationship. Paul's desire to know Christ reflects his longing for a deeper intimacy with the Savior, a growing awareness of His grace and truth, and a continual pursuit of spiritual growth and maturity in Christ.

 

“The more you know Christ, the less you will desire anything else." - Thomas Brooks

 

The doctrinal truth expressed here is Security.

 

The fourth reason salvation is joyous is because….

 

IV.                     We Pursue Christ.

Explanation: This passage emphasizes the need for a clear understanding of one’s spiritual journey, a singular focus on Christ, and a diligent pursuit of growth and maturity in the faith. The following are the necessary attributes for pursuing Christ.

 

·      Proper Awareness (3:12): In verse 12, Paul begins by acknowledging his imperfections and limitations. Paul demonstrated an appropriate awareness of his spiritual journey, recognizing that he has not yet obtained perfection but is continually striving towards that end. The word picture of "διώκω" (diōkō), meaning to pursue or press on, conveys the idea of a runner pressing forward towards the finish line, symbolizing the believer's ongoing pursuit of spiritual growth.

 

·      Focused Attention (3:13-14): In verses 13-14, Paul emphasizes the importance of concentrated attention and singular devotion to the goal set before believers.  Paul’s exhortation “to forget what lies behind and press forward…” underscores the need for believers to maintain a singular focus on Christ and the ultimate goal of their faith. The word picture of "ἐπεκτεινόμενος" (epekteinomenos), meaning to stretch forward or reach out, illustrates the believer's intentional and focused pursuit of spiritual growth and maturity.

 

·      Maximum Effort (3:15-16): In verses 15-16, Paul encourages believers to exert maximum effort in their spiritual journey while maintaining unity and maturity in the faith. He calls for maximum effort in spiritual growth and a commitment to uphold the truth and principles of the faith that have been attained. The word picture of "φρονῶμεν" (phronōmen), meaning to think or set one's mind on, emphasizes the believer's intentional and focused mindset in pursuing spiritual maturity and unity within the body of Christ.

“To pursue Christ is to seek after the highest good, for in Him we find the fulfillment of all our desires." - Thomas Watson

 

From a doctrinal perspective, we see the doctrine of Sanctification.

 

Finally, salvation is joyous because….

 

V.                         We are Transformed by Christ.

Explanation: The Greek term "πολίτευμα" (politeuma) refers to citizenship or commonwealth, emphasizing the believer's heavenly identity and allegiance. Paul highlights that our true citizenship is in heaven, indicating that our primary loyalty and belonging are to the kingdom of God. The phrase "ἀπεκδεχόμεθα" (apekdechometha) conveys the idea of eagerly waiting or anticipating. Believers are portrayed as eagerly awaiting the return of Christ, who is described as the Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, signifying His role as the Redeemer and Sovereign over all.

 

The term "μετασχηματίσει" (metaschēmatisei) denotes transformation or change in form. Paul describes the future transformation of the believer's body, from its humble state, into conformity with the glorious body of Christ. This transformation signifies a complete renewal and glorification of the believer's physical body to be like Christ's resurrected body.

 

The emphasis is on Christ's working power. It underscores Christ's ability to subject all things to Himself, highlighting His sovereign authority and control over all creation.

 

“As we behold the glory of the Lord, we are transformed into His likeness, reflecting His radiance to the world." - Thomas Watson

 

The doctrinal truth taught here is Glorification.

 

TAKE-AWAY:

 

1.        We Gain Christ: In our journey of joyous salvation, we are invited to experience the fullness of Christ in every aspect of our lives. We gain Christ as our Savior and Lord and find our true identity and purpose in Him.

 

2.        We are in Christ: Our union with Christ is irreversible, and our salvation is secure. 

 

3.        We Know Christ: As we walk with Christ, our knowledge of Him deepens, and we learn more about His character, teachings, and redemptive work.

 

4.        We Pursue Christ: With hearts set on pursuing Christ wholeheartedly, we are called to seek Him above all else, aligning our desires, priorities, and actions with His will.

 

5.        We are Transformed by Christ: Ultimately, our faith in Christ culminates in the glorious promise of transformation, where our mortal bodies will be conformed to the image of His glory. This future hope inspires us to press on, persevere, and remain steadfast in our walk with Christ, knowing that He who began a good work in us will bring it to completion.

 

TIE-UP: In return for this joyous salvation, let us maintain proper awareness, focus attention, and give maximum effort. Together, as a community of believers, we must continue to shine brightly, love boldly, and stand unwaveringly in the truth of the Gospel.

 

Work Cited 

G. Walter Hansen, The Pillar New Testament Commentary: The Letter to The Philippians (Nottingham: Apollos, 2009).

Moises Silva, Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament: Philippians (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2005).

Gerhard Friedrich, Theological Dictionary of New Testament Greek (Grand Rapids: WM. Eerdmans Publishing, 1974).

J. A. Motyer, The Message of Philippians, The Bible Speaks Today (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1984).

  


[1] G. Walter Hansen, The Letter to the Philippians, The Pillar New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI; Nottingham, England: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2009), 211.

 

© 2012 - 2025 Blake Gideon. All rights Reserved  

Location: Edmond, OK, USA

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