Sermon Central
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New Life Beginnings
Contributed by Wilson Spencer on Jan 7, 2012 (message contributor)
Summary: As we begin a new year, rather than simply making the same old resolutions that we never keep, let's look to some ideas the Apostle Paul shared with us, and determine to make and keep these "New Life Resolutions".
New Life Resolutions
Pastor Wilson Spencer
Liberty Baptist Church, McEwen, TN
January 1st, 2012
Philippians 3:13-15 “13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.”
INTRODUCTION:
Sentimentality at the end of each year:
Loved ones who’ve died
Accomplishments and Failures
New Year’s resolutions:
Diets and Exercise
Smoking
The Apostle Paul’s New Life Resolutions:
. Forget those things which are behind
We must learn from the past, but leave the past in the past.
Our accomplishments and our failures
. Reach forth unto those things which are before
You’ll never reach the finish line while looking backward
You’ll never reach the finish line while feeling defeated
Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
. Strive for the prize
Fulfilling God’s calling is the goal
Salvation, Sanctification and Glorification
The Crown of Life will be the prize
James 1:12 “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.”
Conclusion: As we embark on a new year, the slate has been wiped clean. We’ve been given a fresh start, a new beginning. Let’s strive to put away all those things that are not profitable for the Kingdom and focus our energy, our attention, our time and our resources on knowing Christ Jesus more intimately and sharing Him with others. (Invitation)
