Jan. 25 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:12-18
Sermon: Life in Christ: Be Blameless and Innocent
Philippians 2:12-18
12 Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed me, not only in my presence but much more now in my absence, work on your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. 14 Do all things without murmuring and arguing, 15 so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world, 16 holding forth the word of life so that I can boast on the day of Christ that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out as a libation over the sacrifice and the service of your faith, I rejoice, and I rejoice together with all of you; 18 in the same way also you should rejoice and rejoice together with me.
Key Idea of the Sermon
The ancient wisdom of Paul’s Letter to the Philippians is preparing us for whatever may come our way in 2026. The core of this wisdom is to open our hearts to the grace and peace of God made known in Christ Jesus, and then to share these life-renewing gifts with others. In today’s passage, Paul offers encouragement and instruction knowing it is unlikely he will be able to visit the church in Philippi again. His instruction is very practical. He cautions against complaint and arguments in the church that often lead to dissension. Paul encourages disciples to stay focused on reflecting the light and life-giving good news of Christ in the world. The result of this focus is joy as the light and life of Christ blesses us and others.
Questions for Reflection
• What encouragement and instruction are you leaving your loved ones?
• How do you shine with the light of Christ? How do you express the word of life?
• Paul understands his imprisonment and impending death as a libation, as an offering to God that serves Christ’s church. How do you articulate the purpose of your days on earth, which are numbered?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Paul encourages disciples to shine like stars in the world. Make a point to let your light shine this week. Give thanks for the difference it makes.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
