Believers Who Hold Citizenship in the Kingdom of God

In this passage the apostle Paul conveys to the believers in Philippi, through his own journey of faith and devotion, how precious citizenship in the kingdom of God is. Paul gave up all the world's wealth and honor and lived for Christ, because of his assurance of the eternal kingdom of heaven and the mission he had received from God. He stresses that believers should give up their citizenship in the world of their own accord and walk carefully toward their true home, the kingdom of God.

The sermon explains why believers should live confidently in the world rather than anxiously, like people staying somewhere illegally. Paul did not boast of his faith or seek people's approval; he sought approval from God alone. Yet it warns that many believers fall into their own righteousness, judge and complain about others, and can easily give in to Satan's temptations. True believers are ashamed of their shortcomings, strive every day to build a close relationship with God, and should keep an attitude of thankfulness for the grace they have been given.

What must believers put into practice to discern Satan's schemes and grow spiritually mature? As people who hold citizenship in the kingdom of God, we consider what decisions we must make in order to pursue the eternal reward rather than the passing pleasures of this earth.