THE BIBLE DOESN'T SAY THAT
(Captivated by Christ - June 19, 2022)
Series Big Idea: "This series compares what the Bible says verses what it doesn't say"
Sermon Big Idea: "The key to contentment in this life is to be captivated by Christ
Key Scripture (Philippians 4:10-13)
Contentment can be hard to come by. We pursue what we believe will make us happy only to discover that it does not; in reality, we were happier before we began our search. It's as though two teardrops are drifting down the river. "Who are you?" one teardrop asked the other. "I'm a glimmer of a girl who loved and lost a man." "Who are you said the other teardrop?" "I'm the teardrop of the girl who got him."
Remember, we are in this sermon series comparing what people in the world quote to be biblical versus what the Bible says. Last week the phrase was “God helps those who help themselves.” Today let’s look at another popular saying that says, “Obedience always leads to financial blessings.” We hear this most often in the church. “Word of faith” proponents use this as a cornerstone of their ministries. Creflo Dollar, Joyce Meyer, Kenneth Copeland, Joel Osteen, T.D. Jakes, and many, many more. These individuals and groups believe and preach that putting faith in Christ will automatically bring financial blessings and favor. Their perfect idea of the Christian life is full of wealth, happiness, and ease. But is this true?
(Philippians 4:10-13)
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Did Paul say anything in this passage about how he found contentment? I believe he does. How do we learn to be content? What are some of the thoughts Paul gave on being content in this life?
1. Focusing on Christ as Lord of my life brings contentment.
The Philippians' concern for Paul had rekindled, he says. In the springtime, this word was used to describe flowers blooming again or trees growing out. He quickly adds that they had always been concerned, but that they had lacked the chance to do something about it. We don't know what kept them from delivering a present sooner, whether it was a lack of cash, a lack of a trustworthy messenger to accept the gift, a lack of knowledge of Paul's situation, or anything else. Whatever the reason, Paul understood that God was in charge, that God knew what Paul needed, and that God would provide or not provide according to His will. In this most practical aspect of his financial assistance, Paul was subject to the Sovereignty of God.
Paul had learned to live in prosperity because God provided abundantly at times. That is a lesson that most of us would like to learn! But, because God didn't always provide, Paul had to learn to make do with what he had. He did not grumble or worry during those times but instead surrendered to God's sovereign hand, knowing that God knew what was best for him and that He always looked after His children (1 Peter 5:6–7).
2. Focusing on Christ as the Savior I must serve brings contentment.
Because Jesus promised, "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you," Paul believed God would provide for his basic needs (Matthew 6:33). All of this pertains to the foods, drinks, and clothing that you will enjoy (6:25). God will take care of our basic financial needs if we focus on serving Him and developing in righteousness, as Jesus taught. In this context, He is discussing how to be stress-free, or how to be content in our souls. The same idea was taught by Paul (1 Timothy 6:6–11). We can be satisfied with what He gives if our attention is on our Savior and accomplishing what He has asked us to do for His kingdom, which includes developing in personal holiness. Serving God with your money and possessions, which are not actually yours but His, given to you as manager, is a part of seeking first God's kingdom.
3. Focusing on Christ for Everything I need brings contentment.
Paul said, "I learned the secret of being fed and being hungry, both of enjoying abundance and suffering need," then he says in (4:12). "I can do all things in Him who continually fills me with power," says verse 13, "I can do all things in Him who continually infuses me with strength" which is the literal meaning. Paul's source of strength and contentment was the all-sufficient, indwelling Christ. Because Christ cannot be taken away from a believer, we may rely on Him in every circumstance, no matter how difficult.
Verse 13 is one of several verses that proclaim Christ's sufficiency for the believer's every need. The "Christian" psychology movement, on the other hand, is attacking this idea, claiming that Christ is adequate for your "spiritual" needs, but not for your emotional ones. However, if you look at the list of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), as well as the attributes of a godly person outlined throughout the New Testament, you'll discover someone who is emotionally stable. If you're an emotional wreck, you're not equipped for every good deed (2 Timothy 3:16–17). The real Christ and His Word have the ability to empower you in order for you to serve Him, including your emotional well-being. Whatever your needs are, learn to rely in the sufficient Savior on a daily basis, and you will experience His contentment in your heart.
Conclusion:
According to legend, a wealthy businessman in Paul's day heard about the apostle and became so enthralled that he planned to pay him a visit. As a result, when he was traveling through Rome, he contacted Timothy and set up an interview with Paul the prisoner. When the man entered the apostle's cell, he was surprised to see him appearing old and physically frail, but he was stunned by the strength, calmness, and attraction of this man who saw Christ as his all-in-all. They chatted for a while before the man left.
"What's the source of this man's power?" he questioned Timothy outside the cell. It's unlike anything I've ever seen." Timothy answered, "Did you not guess?" "Paul is head over heels in love." The businessman was confused. "Are you in love?" he asked. "Paul is in love with Jesus Christ," Timothy declared. "Is that it?" the man asked. "That is everything," Timothy said with a smile.
To be captivated by Christ—as the Lord to whom I submit; as the Savior whom I serve and as the One whom I trust for my every need in every situation—is the source of contentment in this life. It doesn’t matter what circumstance or situation we find ourselves in. As Paul illustrated for us, when we rely on God, we will find satisfaction.
Pastor Beaver's thoughts and ideas are inspired by:
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English Standard Version Bible
King James Version Bible
Christian Standard Bible
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