Saturday, September 01, 2007

Sermon Thoughts on the Aforementioned Translation of Philippians 3:1-11

* Could it be possible to mention the textual problems in the sermon without shooting over the heads of the people?
* I would need to mention the historical context and location of the passage in epistle to find proper meaning.
* What does it really mean to REJOICE!
* Reminding someone of something said earlier should not be trouble if it serves as a safeguard.
* Define: the dogs, the evil workers, the "cutting-off", the circumcision, the flesh, et. al.
* Recognize the significance of Paul's statement in verses 5-6 and contrast that with his statement in verses 7-8.
* Define, without being crass, the meaning and force of "dung" or "rubbish."
* Verse 9 is a clear statement of Paul's belief in justification by grace through faith.
* Verses 10-11 are so forceful and rich in meaning that I hope my words do not get in the way of Paul's.
* It seems to me that only one who has truly entered into a relationship with Christ may grasp the meaning of Paul's words.
* What have I REALLY counted as loss and as dung because of Christ!?
* I do not think that verse 11 is expressing doubt, but rather expressing a sense of awe, reverence, mystery, and humility combined with inexpressible joy, hope and praise.

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