A New Attitude
It is important to start right, but it is imperative to end well. One characteristic of all non-biblical religions is human effort. Paul preached a gospel that was in direct opposition to this way of thinking. He taught that we can do nothing to attain eternal life – except believe in Jesus Christ and be saved.
PHILIPPIANS 3:12-19 (NASB)
12 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; 16 however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.
17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. 18 For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things.
1 TIMOTHY 1:15 (NASB)
15 Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.
REVELATION 3:17 (NASB)
17 You say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.
MATTHEW 7:13 (NASB)
13 “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. 14 For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.
DISCUSSION
1. We are commanded to "press on". Pressing is a process using pressure and heat, creating steam to get the wrinkles out of a garment.
What are some areas of your life that you find challenging to submit to Gods pressing, so that you may lay hold of all He promises?
2. None of us have arrived and we won’t arrive until we hear the Father say, "Well done my good and faithful servant, enter in". (Mat 25:21)
Are you willing to become vulnerable and real with things you struggle with, in order to grow?
3. Our past teaches us to hide and cover up our real self. Thoughts like. “I opened up to someone before and I was rejected” haunt our minds. When we become numb to disappointments, we also become numb to life and joy.
If you are willing, share some self-talk and lies that have held you back from being transparent and real.
4. Humbleness of heart is what God is looking for ~ He resist the proud. If you want the best, there is a cost. The cost is sanctification, a life style of holiness and that means more than just attending church.
Share sometime when you turned aside something to gain for the peace that only God could have provided.
5. An athlete does not learn by watching movies or listening to seminars or lectures. They must get in the game! It takes work be a successful Christian. Copy Jesus, NOT people.
Give some examples of determination and what it looks like to follow Christ.
6. Who or what are some of the enemies of the cross in your life?
7. What have you decided to give up for the sake of the cross?
8. A runner knows the mark from the beginning to the end.
Share with the group some things that could be detours in the race.
PRAYER
Father,
Help me to remember that you turn the pressures of life into power. Help me remember that my life, speaks to those who are watching. Help me to finish this race well and stay in my lane.
Amen
GIVING
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