Whom Will You Follow

By Brian Mitchell     The Epistle to the Philippians is one of Paul’s most personal NT epistles and has been called by some “a window into Paul’s very heart.” The main theme found throughout the letter to the church at Philippi is that of JOY. In total the words joy, rejoice, and rejoicing are found 17 times in these 4 short chapters. Thus, many have labeled Philippians as “Paul’s Hymn of Joy.” It is a look into Paul’s journey in Finding Peace of Mind.     Many search for peace and serenity in this life, but few ever find it. The realities of life can, at times, be harsh and thus many seek through various means for a way of escape, only to find that in the end they have done more harm than good. What does this have to do with Paul’s epistle to the Philippians? Philippians was written by a man (Paul) who had found true peace of mind in life.     Even though he was in prison at the time of this writing. Even though he was awaiting a trial that could very well result in his death. Paul had found the joy which produces peace of mind and he wanted to share that with his readers. Philippians is thus of great value to the Christian because: it reveals the nature of true peace and joy in life. It reveals the example of a man who demonstrates what produces peace and joy in one’s life. It reveals the Christ who is the true source of our peace and joy.     As we consider a small part of the message from Paul’s epistle to the Philippians, let us remember that Paul wants us to understand where joy and peace come from so that we might have them in our life. This is an especially important consideration in light of our text for this sermon—Ph.3:17-21. As we consider this passage, we shall notice that Paul is here discussing the fact that there are 2 ways that we can walk (or live) in this life. We can walk as a citizen of heaven. Or we can walk as an enemy of the cross.     Which we choose shall determine if we find the peace and joy that Paul so desperately wants us to enjoy. Whom will you follow? Which choice have you made? Not which choice do you want everyone to think you have made but which choice have you actually made? How are you walking in this life? Are you walking in righteousness, as a citizen of heaven, or in unrighteousness as an enemy of the cross.     The answer may well depend upon where you have set your mind. If your mind is set on earthly things, you will be an enemy of the cross. Because you will: make your belly your God, glory in that which is shameful and you will bring on your own destruction. If it is set on heavenly things you will be a citizen of heaven. Because you will: live as a citizen of heaven, eagerly await Christ’s coming and live in preparation for the transformation of this body. Have you become a citizen of the kingdom? If so, are you acting like it?

- Brian Mitchell serves as a minister with the Jackson Church of Christ in Jackson, MO. He may be contacted through the congregation's website at https://www.jacksonchurchofchrist.net