July 5, 1998

Where Do I Belong?

by Alistair Begg

It’s natural to want to fit in with the crowd. As Christians, however, we must be cautious about whom we follow. Warning against enemies of the cross who were infiltrating the Church to influence believers, Paul encouraged his readers to be discerning and follow his example as he followed Christ. As Alistair Begg explores Paul’s contrast between false teachers and the faithfully obedient, he challenges us to differ from our culture by resting in Jesus and living for what lasts.

Philippians 3:17-4

¹⁷Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. ⁴though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more:

Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service.

Topics:

id: 2022

Alistair Begg is Senior Pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio, and the Bible teacher on Truth For Life, which is heard on the radio and online around the world.

Other messages in: Take Dead Aim, Volume 1

Even as a prisoner, the Apostle Paul remained confident about his direction and purpose in life: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” When pride and jealousy fostered division among the Philippian Christians, then, Paul redirected their focus to Jesus, the supreme example of sacrificial love. Passionate that all should share in God’s grace, he also provided principles to guide the Church in all generations as we set our sights on Him.

In Volume 1 of this series, Alistair Begg examines the loving, Gospel-centered partnership Paul enjoyed with the Philippians. Concerned that neither their fellowship nor their witness would be jeopardized, Paul promoted unity through humility, charity, and practical obedience. By trusting in God’s providence and promises, we too can learn to rejoice in all circumstances and display faith that is attractive to a watching world.

Message	Scripture
Partners in the Gospel	Philippians 1:1-6
Feelings and Longings	Philippians 1:7-11
Christ is Preached	Philippians 1:12-18
Desires and Necessities	Philippians 1:18-26
Take a Stand	Philippians 1:27-30
Living in Harmony	Philippians 2:1-4
The Attitude of Christ	Philippians 2:5-8
Name Above Every Other Name	Philippians 2:9-11
Who is Doing What?	Philippians 2:12-13
Becoming Children of God	Philippians 2:14-18
That's What Friends Are	Philippians 2:19-30
Complete Series

Topics:

Other messages in: Take Dead Aim, Volume 2

The Apostle Paul was in no doubt as to his direction and purpose in life. In the very heart of this letter to the Philippians, he makes his focus clear. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" Throughout this letter, Paul urges upon these dear Philippian believers the need for them to be equally focused when it comes to the matter of living for Christ.

This series of studies will not only prove useful for the Christian who is seeking to get "back on track," but also to the local church that is seeking to discover its identity in Christ and fulfill the purpose God has for it. The problems that had arisen among Philippian Christians could not be allowed to jeopardize their enjoyment of one another’s company, nor their witness before the watching world. Like a skillful shepherd, Paul establishes them in the truths necessary to live for Christ.

Message	Scripture
Righteousness From God	Philippians 3:1
I Want To Know Christ	Philippians 3:4
Christian Maturity	Philippians 3:12
Where Do I Belong?	Philippians 3:17-4:1
Love, Joy, Peace	Philippians 4:2
The Power of Proper Thinking	Philippians 4:1
Learning for Living	Philippians 4:8
The Secret of Contentment	Philippians 4:10
Spiritual Investing, Part One	Philippians 4:14
Spiritual Investing, Part Two	Philippians 4:14
Complete Series

Topics: