2 Days to Christmas

For the last few days, we’ve been looking at the word “Therefore” in Philippians 2:9. Do we have people like the brothers and sisters in Christ described in Hebrews 10:32-34. Here is the scene—some in the church were thrown in prison. Those who were free were faced with a decision. Their brothers and sisters were depending upon them for the physical needs to be met, but to identify with them meant certain danger.

What did they do? The writer says, “You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property.” Because they sympathized their property was confiscated and they reacted with joy. How could they do that? They sought the “therefore.” Listen to what the Bible says, “Because you knew that your yourselves had better and lasting possessions.” Do we really believe that? If we do, why do we (and notice I said we) live our lives so focused upon the temporal possessions?

What happened to Jesus? He assumed a supreme position. He suffered, therefore God exalted Him. He endured, therefore, God exalted Him. Death could not hold Him in the grave and it won’t hold you either! Why do we fear death? Would you fear a wasp that couldn’t sting? The sting of death is gone. He was given a name that is above all names. If you are a child of God your name is written in His book.  It’s all because of what Jesus did and that is explained in our text.