Upstream: Week 1

May 21st, 2023

Notes

Solidarity: God & His Word
Philippians 2:12-16

• When going upstream, Failure is the default outcome, fruitfulness is the reward of discipline. 

• Why do we avoid the upstream?

  • It’s difficult: forces me out of my comfort zone

  • It’s isolating: I feel alone

  • It’s offensive: it ticks off every other person in the crowd

  • It’s demanding: requires focus, strength, endurance, discipline

• Upstream Life: Determination to make choices that are uncommon in culture but build my character.

  • Philippians 2:12-16

• An Upstream life…

  • Requires an unwavering commitment to a spiritually distinctive life.

    • Philippians 2:12

    • For the believer in Jesus Christ that standard finds it’s source in the Word of God and it’s expression through God’s Spirit and His Church.

    • Hebrews 4:12

    • 2 Timothy 3:16

    • Philippians 2:13

  •  Demands that we live counter to culture.

    • Philippians 2:14-15

    • Every time…in all things….no exceptions.

    • Big Idea: An upstream life requires solidarity with God’s Word, His Spirit, and His Church.

  • Demonstrates public allegiance to personal alliances.

    • Philippians 2:16

  • Requires Ultimate Sacrifice.

    • Philippians 2:17-18