Discover the hidden truth in Philippians 3: lasting joy isn't in achievements, religious performance, or self-confidence—it's in knowing Christ Jesus as Lord. Senior Minister Chris Gregg reveals why we must count everything as loss for the surpassing worth of Christ. Forward with Joy Part 5 – no confidence in the flesh!

In this powerful message from Philippians 3:1-11, Senior Minister Chris Gregg continues the "Forward with Joy" series, showing how joy that lasts comes when our confidence is fully in Christ—not our resume, traditions, or religious checklists.

Paul warns against "dogs" who mutilate the flesh and put confidence in human effort. Instead, true believers worship by the Spirit, glory in Christ Jesus, and count all worldly gains as rubbish for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ—His resurrection power, fellowship in suffering, and righteousness by faith.

Chris shares relatable stories (YMCA loyalty, delayed packages, New Year resolutions fading) to illustrate how circumstances steal joy when it's not anchored in Jesus. The big idea: Christ becomes our greatest gain, and being found in Him is our deepest security.

Key verses:

Philippians 3:3 – "put no confidence in the flesh"

Philippians 3:8 – "surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord"

Philippians 3:9-10 – righteousness through faith, knowing Him and His power

Whether you're battling uncertainty, performance pressure, or fading motivation, this sermon calls us to deeper discipleship and unshakable joy in Christ alone.

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Email: office@fccbrazil.org

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro: New Year energy fades into reality

00:40 – Big Idea: Joy that lasts is found in Christ alone

01:57 – Chris's YMCA loyalty & January gym crowds

02:20 – Spiritual parallel: Grabbing for what feels solid

03:11 – Scripture reading: Philippians 3:1-3

03:55 – Joy's true location: Rejoice in the Lord (command)

05:13 – Youth ministry fun vs. deeper senior ministry joy

06:12 – Real threat to joy: Religion without Christ

07:03 – Checklist faith vs. relationship with Jesus

07:59 – Verse 3 breakdown: Worship by the Spirit, no confidence in the flesh

09:01 – Question: What do you reach for under pressure?

09:50 – Paul's impressive resume (verses 4-6)

10:58 – Resume trap & scoreboard trap (God "owes" me)

12:44 – Gospel truth: God loves you on your worst/best day

13:40 – Joy when Christ is our greatest gain (verse 7)

14:00 – Recalculating: Gain vs. loss for Christ

15:11 – Verse 8: Surpassing worth of knowing Christ

16:46 – Billionaire analogy – losing $10 means nothing

18:00 – Verse 9: Found in Him, righteousness by faith

19:23 – Verse 10-11: Knowing Christ, power, suffering, resurrection

20:54 – Depth over perfection; deepest moments in the valley

21:31 – Ledger: What defines you – approval or Christ?

22:53 – Church moves forward when Christ is the treasure

23:18 – Personal story: Delayed USPS package frustration

25:57 – Handling circumstances with joy intact

26:21 – Closing encouragement & repeated prayer

26:58 – Final prayer: Expose false confidence, know Christ deeper

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Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

Join Worship Minister Dan Stribling in his inspiring trial sermon, "The Great Adventure," at First Christian Church Brazil! Discover how living a life in Christ is the ultimate adventure, from answering God's call to persevering through trials and claiming the eternal crown of life. Drawing from key scriptures like James 1:12, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, Matthew 4:18-20, and more, Dan explores the journey of faith, transformation, and heavenly rewards. Perfect for anyone seeking encouragement in Christian living, perseverance under trial, and the hidden truths of biblical adventure. Sermon keywords: Christian sermon, great adventure in faith, James 1:12 crown of life, trials and perseverance, following Jesus, eternal reward, FCC Brazil podcast.

Dive deeper into this message from February 1, 2025, where Dan shares personal stories, song lyrics from Steven Curtis Chapman, and biblical parallels to heroic quests. Whether you're new to faith or a seasoned believer, this episode reminds us that Christ calls us out of the ordinary into something extraordinary.

About FCC Brazil Podcast:

The FCC Brazil podcast brings you weekly sermons, teachings, and discussions from First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana. Our mission is to guide people home through the gospel, fostering community and spiritual growth. Subscribe for more uplifting content on Christian faith, Bible studies, and real-life applications of Scripture.

Follow us on social media: @fccbrazil

Contact us: office@fccbrazil.org

More episodes: Check out our playlist on YouTube for past sermons and events.

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