Prayer, Media, New Year Essentials 2019, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

This morning we continue our new year essentials sermon series. This four-week series addresses important themes we must repeatedly return to for the glory of God, the good of others, and our ongoing transformation. Today we will consider how to reboot our prayer life at the start of a new year. We know prayer is important, but there is a lot that wars against us to keep us from praying. So, how do we move forward? That’s what today is all about.

Media, Philippians, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

There is a direct correlation between what we value most and how we live. That is why the bible never begins with our behavior, but always with our hearts. In Philippians 1:27-30 Paul exhorts us to, “let our manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ”. We are called to live lives that display the supreme worth and incomparable beauty of Jesus, so that we might stand together in the unity of the Holy Spirit, striving for the spread of the Gospel.

Media, Philippians, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Today, in Philippians 1:12-26, we see the great over-arching truth that ties the entire letter together. In many ways this section is a bit like a journal entry in which Paul pulls back the curtain of his heart and reveals his greatest treasure, deepest hope, and highest good – his very life. If we’re paying attention, this should cause some healthy, personal evaluation on our part. What are we living for? If we pull back the curtain over our hearts, what is it that we are really after in this life? What is our greatest treasure?

Media, Philippians, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Life is often complicated, messy, and unpredictable. Brokenness has been a part of the human landscape from the beginning. In Philippians 1:3-11 Paul demonstrates an attitude rich with gospel-shaped thanksgiving and prayer for the church during the worst of personal circumstances. He reminds us again and again that we don't merely need new circumstances but a durable hope and joy that reaches beyond our situation. Cultivating a heart that is joyful requires continual reflection and application of the gospel, commitment to those partnering in the Christian walk, finding comfort in God's persevering grace, and abounding in love and excellence for the glory of God.

Media, Philippians, Sermons | by Pastor Adam Sinnett

If there was ever a letter written to stir Jesus’ people to joy, hope and confidence – even amidst the worst of circumstances – it is Philippians. Paul writes to show us that the gospel, and all of its implications, not only transcends human divisions but also our circumstances. That is what makes this letter a favorite for many. Yet, at the very same time, Paul’s words here are deeply challenging. How is it possible for Paul to be so positive amidst such dire circumstances? How is it possible for him to write with such warmth, joy and sincerity from prison? Is he being real? What does he have that we, too often, don’t seem to have? We get an answer to that in the first two lines of his letter.