In Philippians 3:1-11, the Apostle Paul talks about righteousness. But, this begs the question, why is he talking about righteousness in the middle of the book of Philippians? What does righteousness have to do with joy?
Well, there was a group of people causing issues amongst many of the early Christians. And that group of people were referred to as "the Judaizers". The Judaizers were trying to impose adherence to the Old Testament law as a necessary requirement in order to be saved and to truly be one of God's people. So, Paul is addressing this issue here in Philippians 3:1-11.
Throughout this section of Philippians, Paul makes it abundantly clear that one is not made righteous through adherence to the law. Rather, he proclaims the truth that one is only made righteous through faith. Faith in Jesus. Faith in what Jesus did. Faith in the gospel. And so it is so important to remember as Christians that this truth is the foundation for our ultimate joy. Because if we try to rejoice in anything else it will fade and fall short. But, if we rejoice in Jesus and if we rejoice in what he did on the cross, then we will never lose that joy. No one can ever take that joy from us because we are secure in our salvation that is from God himself.
So, please carry that truth with you this week that your joy is in the Lord. And that is good news because that is everlasting joy. Glory be to God for giving us his precious son and giving us unspeakable joy in Him.
MBC's Bible Engagement Plan
MBC’s Bible Engagement Plan: Isaiah – From Ruin to Redemption
As a church community, our desire is to move from hearing God’s Word to living it out daily. This Bible Engagement Plan is designed to help us walk through Isaiah together in a weekly rhythm that deepens our understanding while also cultivating habits of daily reading and reflection.
- LISTEN TO THE SUNDAY SERMON
Each week begins with the Pastor’s Sunday sermon on a passage from Isaiah and includes
- Pastor’s Outline: A guide to follow along and take notes. We also suggest picking up the Isaiah scripture journal from the Welcome Center.
- Discussion Questions: Provided to encourage reflection and conversation in small groups, families, or personal study. If you are not already part of a small group, consider joining one this Fall: Click here to explore one of MBC’s small groups
- READ AND REFLECT ON THE WEEKLY PLAN
Monday through Saturday, follow the suggested reading plan outlined in the Saturday eNews Bulletin. As you read and reflect on your passage each day, ask these two guiding questions and jot down your thoughts in your Isaiah journal.
- What does this passage reveal about God—His character, His purposes, or His promises?
- How should I respond in light of what I’ve read—through trust, obedience, repentance, or worship?
- MEMORIZE THE WEEKLY KEY VERSE
Every week, one key verse from the sermon will be highlighted for memory. You are invited to use the free Bible Memory app and join the “Millington Baptist Church” Bible memorization group: Click here to join
- READ AND REFLECT ON THE PASTOR’S DEVOTIONAL BLOG
Each Wednesday, one of our pastors will share a devotional expanding on the sermon theme helping to connect Isaiah’s message to everyday life.
Why This Rhythm Matters
- Immersion: This plan helps you engage learning in multiple ways—hearing, reading, memorizing, and reflecting—so you gain a richer understanding of Isaiah’s message.
- Transformation in Community: Discussion questions and shared readings create space for us to learn together and nurture application of the biblical principles into our daily lives.
Questions or comments?
Contact Amy Huber, Director of Discipleship and Connections: ahuber@millingtonbaptist.org
Previous Entries
Pastor Bob Erbig and Pastor Dave Hentschel
