PAUL’S SACRIFICE AND REWARD

                                                         Philippians 3:1-15

  Introduction

        A.  The Jews were proud of their ancestry.  John 8:33.  Examples:

        B.  Some of the Jews found it difficult to let go of all the regulations of the Law of

             Moses after their conversion to Christianity.  Philippians 3:2-3

        C.  The apostle Paul used himself as an example of one who had given up his

             heritage and religion to embrace Christianity.  Philippians 3:4

        D.  Let’s consider what Paul gave up, what he gained and make a practical

             application.

  Body

   I.  What Paul gave up

        A.  His proud ancestry,  Philippians 3:5-6

        B.  His religion which was Judaism.  Philippians 3:5-8; Galatians 1:13-15

        C.  What was Paul’s attitude about his sacrifice?  Philippians 3:7-8

  II.  What Paul gained

        A.  Christ,  Philippians 3:7-9; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:5

        B.  All spiritual blessings, Ephesians 1:3

        C.  God’s righteousness, Philippians 3:9,6; 2 Corinthians 5:21

        D.  Eternal life. Philippians 3:11; 2 Timothy 4:6-8

  III.  Questions:  Is there ____________ that I need to give up to become a Christian? 

        To be more productive for God’s cause in 2010?

         A.  Luke 9:23:  self?

         B.  Matthew 6:24: money/possessions?

         C.  Philippians 3:5: heritage?

         D.  Galatians 6:7-8: habit?

         E.  Galatians 6:7-8:  worldly pleasures?

   Conclusion

         A.  When we give up our hindrances, we can:  forget…., be concerned ……

                And press toward the goal of Heaven.  Philippians 3:12-15