Keltys Worship Service, January 16, 2022

Series Title: Gospel Living in a Wicked World

Text: Philippians 3:12-16

Title: Sanctification 101: Pressing on Toward the Perfect 

Big Idea: We press on to obtain perfection because Christ has obtained us.  

1. The ________ – Press on toward the perfect!

2. The necessary _____________ – Resurrection perfection is not attainable now.  

3. The ___________ – A new relationship, a new vision, and a new standard.

4. The ___________ – We pursue the perfect because the Perfect has pursued us.  

Discussion Questions:

1. In vs. 12 Paul writes, “I press on to make it my own.”  What does “it” refer to here?  What are the implications of obtaining “it?” See 1 Corinthians 13:12; 1 John 3:2.  Pay attention to context.

2. According to vs. 12, what enables Paul to press on to make “it” his own? What does this refer to, and how does knowing this encourage you?

3. According to vv. 13-14, how does Paul approach the Christian life? Why does he approach it this way?

4. How are you currently pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (vs. 14)? What is the prize here?  

5. Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and Hebrews 12:1-2. How does Philippians 3:12-16 compare to these passages? What are some of the common themes found in all three passages? How do these passages challenge you to view the Christian life differently?

6. According to Paul, what does it mean to be spiritually mature? See vs. 15. How can we grow in our spiritual maturity?

7. What does vs. 16 look like in practice?

8. How might this passage inform the way you pray this week for yourself and God’s church? Give several examples.