Pressing Ahead into the Future - January 2, 2011

This is a New Year's sermon focusing on the words of the Apostle Paul, "... forgetting those things that are behind, and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

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Written excerpts of the message:

Philippians 3:13-14

I want to use this passage to highlight some principles that will benefit our lives as we stand on the threshold of another brand new year.

I.  The Apostle evaluates his own condition. (v. 13a)
"I do not count myself to have apprehended." (KJV)

In his evaluation, Paul determines...

A. Every worldly or earthly benefit or accomplishment is absolutely worthless in comparison to Christ.
Compare verses 7-8.
It really doesn't matter who we are or what we have done in this world, if we don't have Christ, it profits us nothing.

B. True worth is found in knowing Christ and finally achieving a glorious resurrection.
Compare verses 8-12
Everything the Apostle has stated in these verses indicates his passionate desire to go through anything and everything in order to finally reach the goal of the glorious resurrection and be with Christ forever.

II.  The Apostle eliminates his nagging distractions.
"...forgetting those things which are behind..."
According to the context, the "things" Paul would be referring to in this statement include all the benefits he had previously held in such high regard: his impeccable life according to the law, his family heritage, and his zeal and passion.
Past "successes" or accomplishments, as well as failures, must never become distractions to take our eyes off the goal that still lies out before us.

III.  the Apostle emphasizes his ultimate goal.
"... and reaching forward... I press toward the goal..."
Here is an apostle of Jesus Christ, sitting in a Roman jail writing this letter to fellow-believers in Philippi. He knows that there is a trial coming up sometime, somewhere. He probably realizes that execution is a real possibility. In spite of these adverse circumstances... Paul is "chomping at the bit" to get on with it and finally make it to the goal - a martyr's death, resulting in a glorious resurrection!

Conclusion:
Dear friends, we do not know what the future may hold for us this year. Let us force out of our minds all the distractions of the past, accomplishments as well as failures. Let us join with the Apostle Paul and push forward in the name of Jesus toward the final goal awaiting all faithful servants.