Northwood Archives

Sermon notes

January 13th, 2008

"Laugh Again" sermon series

#3 "No Joy in Meritville"
                                      Pastor Dan Armstrong

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Today's scripture:  Philippians 3:1-11

We live in a fame and honors culture…which is OK as long as we recognize its limits: An earthly system that exalts earthly people for earthly accomplishments. Yet fame and honors cannot bring us to joy…or a heavenly home. Paul discovered…and shared with the Christians at Philippi…that joy cannot be achieved…it must be received. He gave them…and us…two warnings and one strong reminder.

1. Beware the legalistic grace killers.
- “Watch out for those…who mutilate the flesh…” (Phil. 3:2)

2. Beware the workaholic joy stealers.
- “Watch out for those…who put confidence in the flesh…” (Phil. 3:3-6)

Reminder: The more excellent way…righteousness through faith.
- “...not having a righteousness of my own…but through faith…” (Phil. 3:7-11)

The list of things the world says bring success will bring notoriety and high esteem…and that’s OK. But if that list does not include something like “recognizing, respecting, and reconciling with your Creator” it must inevitably end with “then he/she died and entered eternity apart from God”. Choose the more excellent way. Respond to God’s love…and enter joy.