Saul's Losses and Paul's Gains

Philippians 3:1-11

Change can be difficult.  We tend to be very habitual in our actions. Paul went through an incredible change.

Beware of Evildoers

• Philippians 3:1-3- Rejoice in what God has done for you.  Be aware of those who are doing evil.  Paul is turning the judging language of others back on them.  Because these people were critical of those who weren't Jews they called them "dogs".
• Matthew 26:41 - Watch out and pray. 
• Phil.   1:27-28 - See your role as a Christian as being firm in God's power.  Have faith in God to use you to overcome evil in the world.

Saul's Losses

• Phil. 3:4-7 - Saul was a Jew who had a great pedigree.  When he encountered Jesus he was willing to give all this to become a Christian.  What are you needing to give up to follow Christ?  What are you depending on for your confidence?  In Saul's case he was relying on himself and his religious practices for his confidence.
• 1 John 2:28- What are we frightened of?  When Christ appears we can be confident, not afraid.  1John 3:21-23, 1 John 4:17, 1John 5:14, Romans 8:26-27  Put away the things that won't give us strength in Christ.   Look deep and find the things that oppose God.

Paul's Gains

• Philippians 3:8-11 - Saul gave it all up even his name.  He became Paul and got rid of all the things "Saul" had relied on.  Paul's focus became Jesus. Phil. 1:1, 1:18,1:21, 2:9-11.  Paul can't get Jesus out of our mind. What about us?  Are you focused on Christ?  When Paul found Christ he was able to depend on God to be righteous and he could rely on God to make him stand.  He had hope in Jesus' power, fellowship, and resurrection.
• Galatians 2:20 - Paul was made new in Jesus.  Paul saw himself as able because of God's power.  Do you see God's power in you?

—Robert Lee, 2-24-08, a.m.