Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for September 12, 2021

Gospel Obsession

Philippians 1:12-26

-When advancing the gospel is your primary goal, you can view your circumstances as God-given opportunities to promote it.

1. Acknowledge Christ’s Providence in Your Past (12-14)

• apprehension about imprisonment
• advancement in the midst of adversity
• attracting attention to Christ

2. Advance Christ’s Cause in Your Present (15-18a)

• promoting the proclamation of Christ
• method, motive and message
• cause for rejoicing

3. Aim to Honor Christ in Your Future (18b-26)

• discernment: increased fruit or immediate gain
• desire: constrained or exchanged
• devotion: progress and praise

4. So What?

• “Live here in light of there under the conquering authority of the King.” (Stowell)
• “I cannot but run with all my might, for I am closer to the goal.” (Simeon)
• Resolve to magnify Christ in the midst of your current “restrictions.”
• A reminder from Samuel Rutherford
• “The men of grace have found glory begun below; Celestial fruits on earthly ground from faith and hope may grow…Then let our songs abound, and every tear be dry; We’re marching through Immanuel’s ground to fairer worlds on high.” (Watts)