Sermon July 13th 2025

1. How does the sermon use the analogy of a plumb line to explain the role of scripture in a Christian's life?
2. Who are the "Judaizers," and what specific actions were they taking that Paul warned against?
3. Explain Paul's statement that his accomplishments were "rubbish." What attitude was he challenging, and where did he ultimately find his true confidence?
4. What two "very basic concepts" are essential for Christians to understand about their initial journey, according to the sermon?
5. What paradox does Paul present in his desire to "know Christ," specifically regarding suffering and resurrection?
6. The sermon states that Christians are "saved for something." What specific purposes are mentioned in this context?
7. How does the sermon address the common lie that past mistakes can prevent someone from accepting Jesus or living fully for Him?
8. Describe the analogy of the trucks driving on rumble strips in a snowstorm. What spiritual truth does this illustrate regarding guidance?
9. Define what it means to be "Called" in the context of the sermon, providing an example given by the speaker.
10. Explain the concept of "continuing" in the Christian faith, noting how it relates to the initial excitement of conversion.

Essay Questions:

1. Analyze the significance of the phrase "find ourselves in Jesus" in the sermon. How does this concept challenge common worldly notions of identity and self-worth, and what are the practical implications for a believer's life?
2. Discuss the speaker's emphasis on scripture as an "unchanging standard" in contrast to "my truth." How does this theological stance impact the understanding of morality, guidance, and authority for a Christian, according to the sermon?
3. Examine the tension between "knowing the power of the resurrection" and "participation in his sufferings" as presented in the sermon. Why does the speaker suggest one cannot fully grasp the former without embracing the latter, and what does this imply about the nature of Christian maturity?
4. The sermon uses the framework of "Called, Kept, and Continuing." Choose two of these concepts and elaborate on how the sermon defines and illustrates them. How do these three aspects collectively describe the holistic journey of a Christian?
5. Reflect on the analogy of "forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead" as it relates to overcoming past struggles and the influence of Satan. How does the sermon empower believers to move forward, and what is the role of Jesus in this process?