I. The Need for Self Worth
Every culture provides a sense of self and sense of worth
A. Sense of self answers, “Who are you?”
B. Sense of worth answers, “Are you a good person?”
II. Fake Sources of Self Worth vs.4-6; 1 John 2:15-17
A. Identity – circumcised on the eighth day
B. Security – of the people of Israel
C. Family heritage – of the tribe of Benjamin
D. Status – a Hebrew of Hebrews
E. Religious Preference – in regard to the law, a Pharisee
F. Religious zeal – persecuting the church
G. Religious Accomplishment- as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.
III. The True Source of Self Worth- Jesus
A. Let go of your past vs.7-8
B. Value yourself as God values you v.9
C. Embrace the cost of following Christ vs.10-11
D. Keep your eye on the prize vs.12-14
Questions: Points to ponder
Read the following verses in Philippians 3:4-14 and discuss following questions:
A. Read verses 4-7. Paul was not just an ordinary Jew, he was a super achiever? What do you think attracted Paul to be super zealous in promoting the Jewish faith? Before he was a Christ follower, what was the greatest validator of his worth as a person?
B. Read verses 8-11. What did Apostle Paul find in Jesus that motivated him to abandon his whole culture, namely all that he had and all that he knew, in order to be a follower of Christ? What did he gain when he followed Christ? Make a list.
C. Read verses 12-14 Apostle Paul’s desire is to work hard and someday reach the goal, at the end of his life on earth, and receive his prize from the Lord. How can future rewards in heaven motivate you to live your life for Christ here in earth?
Action Points for Reflection:
A. What are the things that hinder you from following Jesus on earth? What temptations do you constantly struggle with? What forces have power over your life? What or who is the main validator of your worth as a person?
B. Do you find it hard to forgive certain people? What are things you know you should do but you don’t? Or things you shouldn’t do but you do? Make a list. Then ask yourself how the value of you future rewards in heaven compare with your sacrifices for Jesus here on earth. Then decide to do what has greater value to you.
Prayer: Lord, help me to count the cost of following you and let you alone be the validator of my worth as a person!