TAKE A STAND

Philippians 1:27-29

Introduction

1. There is no indication of any external opposing forces that

threatened the church at Philippi.

a. In his books to the Corinthians, Galatians, and the

Colossians, Paul references external opposition.

b. Though no specific external enemies are listed, the

Philippians are told to take a stand.

c. Contained in this command is the lesson that we must

be on the look out for error even if it is not directly effecting

our local congregation.

2. By noticing the Philippians’ charge to stand, we can learn what

God expects of us today.

I. Stand In Commitment (v. 27)

A. Paul focused on their manner of life (Phil. 3:20).

B. Their commitment to Christ came before all else.

1. Today, however, some people think that commitments

to sports teams and community groups come before

their commitment to Christ.

2. This world is not our home.

II. Stand In Partnership (v. 27)

A. They were told to be of one spirit.

B. Unity is a powerful tool of the Lord’s true people

(Jn. 17:20-23).

III. Stand In Boldness (v. 28)

A. They had no reason to fear the Devil’s agents whomever

they may have been (Jas. 4:7).

B. Read 1 John 4:4.

IV. Stand In Hardship (v. 29)

A. Taking a stand often results in suffering (2 Tim. 3: 12).

B. Consider Luke 6:26.

May 11, 2003 (p.m.)