SERIES: WHATEVER HAPPENS! (3 OF 3)

NOTE: This sermon is part 5 and 6 of a 6 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 5: Don't Worry
Series: Whatever Happens!
Stuart Briscoe
Philippians 4:4-9

Life is full of anxiety-producing situations. We should be neither surprised nor dismayed by this reality. But we should know how to handle them rather than be ruled by them.

I. The Problems.

A. Paul was in prison. 1:13
B. Society was in a mess. 2:15
C. Epaphroditus had been sick. 2:27
D. Opposition was increasing. 3:2
E. Commitment was shallow. 3:18f
F. Relationships were strained. 4:2-3

II. The Protocol.

A. "Rejoice in the Lord always." v. 4
1. Recognize who He is. 3:20

2. Relate to what He does. 3:21

3. Rejoice that you're "in Him."

B. Develop a reputation for magnanimity. v. 5a
1. Rather than sticking to the letter of the law…

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Part 6: Be Content
Series: Whatever Happens!
Stuart Briscoe
Philippians 4:10-20

The Philippian church supported Paul in his missionary work, and he was grateful. But he insisted that he was not dependent on them. His dependence and contentment rested elsewhere. His teaching on the subject is applicable to all.

I. Learning the Secret of Contentment.

A. The meaning of contentment. (Greek: "arkeo," "arketos")
1. That which is sufficient. Matthew 25:9; John 6:7

2. The attitude that is satisfied with sufficient.
a. 1 Timothy 6:8

b. Luke 3:14

c. Hebrews 13:5

B. The enemies of contentment.
1. The leech's twin daughters. Proverbs 30:15a

2. The four things never satisfied. Proverbs 30:15b-16

C. The secret of contentment.
1. The Stoic view: self-sufficiency. (Greek: "autarkes")

2. The Pauline view: Christ-sufficiency. vv. 12 13
a. Well fed or hungry…