In The Priority of Preaching, Christopher Ash challenges those of us who preach with the call to urgency. Last time, I highlighted the idea of preaching grace, this time I want to explore how the pulpit isn’t just a platform for explaining scripture, but a place to bring a sense of urgency to the gospel. Ash argues that preaching isn’t simply giving over information, it’s a call to action that seeks a response.
Ash tells a story or illustration about “three apprentice devils” training under Satan. The first suggests they convince people there’s no God, but Satan isn’t impressed, noting that even in a secular world, many still feel a pull toward belief. The second proposes they argue there’s no judgment. Again, Satan says this won’t work, as people often sense that actions have consequences. Finally, the third apprentice suggests whispering, “There’s no hurry.” This plan, Satan says, will work because it plants a subtle complacency, pushing people to put off responding to the Word, assuming they’ll get to it someday.
The point made here is connected to the words of Paul in 2 Corinthians 6:2, “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation”. Responding to the Good News is not something to delay. Preaching, then, needs a sense of urgency to combat the tendency to postpone faith or repentance. Without it, people may listen without ever responding, pushing away a decision that requires action today, not tomorrow.
This urgency can shape the way we approach sermon content and tone as well. Ash writes, “The urgency of faith means we need to preach with urgent passionate clarity.” In other words, urgency doesn’t mean delivering an emotional message or stirring up an anxious response. It’s about bringing clarity and conviction, preaching with a confidence that God’s message requires immediate attention.
A look at biblical preaching shows this same urgency. John the Baptist’s message, for instance, was clear and direct: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2). Jesus Himself speaks with a sense of immediacy, calling people to follow Him without delay (Matthew 4:19-22). The apostles in Acts don’t simply preach for knowledge; they’re actively calling people to repent and believe, with Peter in Acts 2 urging his listeners, “Repent and be baptized…for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38). In each of these cases, the call is immediate and direct, a reminder that responding to God’s Word is essential.
Ash’s perspective on urgency challenges us to recognise that we have a responsibility not only to explain the Word but to call people to respond. There is a place for teaching and a place for exhorting, and urgent preaching holds both together, pointing people in the right direction but also giving a “shove,” as Ash puts it, to get them started. This approach challenges the idea of “neutral” preaching—an invitation to consider a message without pressing toward response. For Ash, that kind of preaching risks becoming little more than a lecture, missing the power and purpose of the pulpit.
The urgency in preaching is not about creating panic or fear but about presenting the gospel in a way that recognises its eternal weight. Ash writes that preaching is never simply information transfer; it’s always aimed at transformation. This brings to mind the warning in Hebrews 3:15, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”
For those of us who preach regularly, this means preparing sermons with the challenge of urgent decision-making, rather than assuming listeners will naturally follow through. Ash’s approach encourages preachers to explicitly call for a response, trusting that God will use the preached Word to reach those who hear. Our role as preachers, then, isn’t just to explain; it’s to invite and challenge people toward an active faith that starts today.
In the end, Ash’s perspective on urgency in preaching reminds us that the Word of God calls us to act now, not “someday.” This approach is a counterbalance to our tendency to wait, putting off faith decisions until they seem more convenient. Ash’s point is that, as preachers, we are watchmen—our role is to sound the alarm, not to let people stay in spiritual comfort or complacency.
In The Priority of Preaching, Christopher Ash writes about that which can get overlooked in our churches: preaching being centred on grace. Ash argues in his book that the preaching of grace is essential, as it keeps the church from turning into what he calls a “club” where people gather around shared interests or personalities rather than a shared commitment to Jesus Christ. Instead, preaching on grace builds a community in humility and binds us together through the Good News rather than individualism. Ash writes, “only the word of grace knocks down our pride.” And it is in this posture we are able to turn back to God, reminding each of us that we are “all one in Christ Jesus”. The playing field is levelled, all of us fall short, and the togetherness of us as believers is on our shared dependence on the mercy of God.
This emphasis on grace goes beyond just avoiding pride; it’s also about cultivating a healthy church culture. Without the regular proclamation of grace a church can quickly become an exclusive group that relies on human similarities rather than the gospel to stay connected. This drift can happen subtly, but Ash’s point is that grace is the only foundation strong enough to hold together a diverse community. The church isn’t meant to be a gathering of people who all look, think, and act alike; it’s a people transformed and unified by God’s grace, regardless of background or personality (Romans 12:3-5).
The challenge to pastors is to make grace a consistent theme in our preaching, a commitment that prevents the church from developing a “club mentality.” Grace-centred preaching doesn’t just speak to an individual heart, it impacts and transforms the whole church. When grace is preached we are reminded of our own limitations, the unnecessary drive to prove ourselves, and a skewed view of success. The focus on grace points us back to the gospel, which calls us to be of one mind and heart, putting others above themselves (Philippians 2:1-14).
As a flow on effect of this grace-filled preaching the life of the church reaches outside its walls. Well, it should drive us to this. If we are marked by humility and grace, which flows from this kind of preaching, then the culture of the church is to be a place where others are welcomed, even if they don’t seem to ‘fit’. Ash tells us that those churches that preach grace will stand out, drawing others in through the authenticity of the community that is impacted through grace.
In practice, this call to preach grace challenges those of us who do preach regularly to focus on the greatness of the gospel, not simply giving our hearers things ‘to do’. While there will be challenging moral and behavioural aspects articulated in preaching, because Scripture is like this too, it does mean framing these things in the context of grace. For example, instead of preaching a “try harder” message, we can emphasise that growth in holiness is an ongoing response to God’s love, not a checklist for approval.
As Ash explains, grace is the church’s “ tune.” Without it the church will gradually lose its true identity. Grace keeps the church as the body of Christ. By keeping grace at the centre we create a church culture that reflects the gospel, and open ourselves to be a community that is transformed by it.
In The Priority of Preaching, Christopher Ash argues that preaching is not just another church activity but the foundation upon which the church is formed, sustained, and strengthened. Ash presents preaching as the central means by which God calls His people together, aligning the church under His Word to shape their lives, faith, and identity. While the book is a bit academic in parts, Ash’s use of memorable illustrations and his practical advice on the task of preaching make it worth the read.
Ash builds his case around Deuteronomy, which he describes as less a “law book” and more a “preaching book.” He points out that in Deuteronomy, Israel gathers under Moses to hear God’s Word, binding them together as His people (Deuteronomy 31:11-13). This gathering isn’t about individuals gaining private insight; rather, it’s a communal moment where the people are shaped under the authority of God’s spoken Word. For Ash, this dynamic continues today. Preaching is a way for the church to gather, listen, and respond together to God.
A major theme in this book is grace, which Ash argues must be central to preaching. He points out that without regular, grace-centred teaching, churches risk becoming exclusive clubs rather than communities of believers bound by Christ. He writes, “only the word of grace knocks down our pride,” reminding us that the gospel keeps believers grounded in humility and dependent on God (Ephesians 2:8-9). This recurring call to grace is a practical one, as it reinforces that the church’s unity and health are not built on shared interests or human qualities, but on the common need for God’s saving grace. Ash’s emphasis here brings to mind Paul’s words to the Galatians, that we are “one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28), a unity that only grace can sustain.
Ash insists on the urgency of preaching. He uses an illustration of three apprentice devils who each try a different strategy to prevent people from responding to God’s Word. The final one whispers, “Tell them there’s no hurry.” This tactic succeeds, as people assume they can respond later, just “not today.” For Ash, preaching must challenge this mindset, delivering the message with urgency to avoid spiritual complacency. “The urgency of faith means we need to preach with urgent passionate clarity,” he writes, stressing that preaching should move people to a point of decision. This is a reminder that preaching isn’t just informative; it’s intended to encourage people toward repentance and faith, and “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24).
Another key insight is the way Ash views preaching and community as closely connected. He argues that preaching isn’t just for individual growth but for binding the church together as a people. “The church is not a collection of individuals who sometimes assemble; it is an assembly whose members may sometimes be dispersed,” he says. This means that the assembly under the Word reflects Paul’s description of the church as “one body with many members” (1 Corinthians 12:12). It is a reminder that the church is not simply a place to receive spiritual insight but is a gathering that God shapes and grows collectively through His Word.
In terms of the role of the pastor, Ash sees the pastor as a shepherd whose primary task is to “feed the flock” through preaching (John 21:17). Drawing on theologians like John Owen, Ash describes preaching as the pastor’s core responsibility, one that must be done with diligence and humility. The pastor’s role is not about personal authority but about humbly stewarding God’s Word to guide the church.
The Priority of Preaching is a book that reinforces the essential role of preaching for the church. The book has an academic tone that can make it a slower read in parts, but uses illustrations to enliven the chapters and make it more accessible. Although some sections may be dense, the book’s core ideas around grace, urgency, community, and pastoral responsibility make it a helpful resource for those who preach or lead within the church. With its combination of practical insights and vivid examples, The Priority of Preaching is a four out of five stars book, bringing practical depth and encouragement for the Church and the preacher.
In my previous post, we explored how Hebrews 1 establishes the supremacy of Jesus over the angels. This understanding sets the foundation for the message in Hebrews 2—a warning not to neglect the great salvation that Jesus offers.
This isn’t just an ancient admonition; it is also a warning for us today. We live in a world full of distractions, temptations, and trials. It’s easy to lose sight of what’s important, the core of our faith. Hebrews 2 urges us to hold fast, to be anchored, to Jesus, the author of our salvation. In so doing he tells us to be vigilant against the slow drift that can pull us away from Him.
Do Not Neglect the Great Salvation
Hebrews 2:1-4 opens with a direct and urgent exhortation:
“We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.”
The imagery of drifting is helpful.
Think of a boat tied to a pier, its ropes securely fastened. As long as the knots are tight and the ropes strong, the boat remains anchored, no matter how strong the currents or waves. But if the knots loosen, if the ropes fray, the boat begins to drift, carried away by the unseen pull of the tides. The same is true for our faith. If we are not anchored to Jesus—in other words, ‘if we do not pay careful attention to what we have heard’—we can slowly, almost imperceptibly, drift away from our faith.
The Danger of Drifting
This warning isn’t about a sudden, conscious rejection of faith. It’s about the subtle, almost invisible drifting that can occur when we neglect our relationship with God. Some questions worth reflecting on for ourselves, which may help us evaluate where we are at, include:
Have you found yourself neglecting the reading of God’s Word, allowing days or weeks to pass without opening your Bible?
Have you neglected prayer, letting your conversations with God become infrequent or shallow?
Have you been absent from corporate worship, finding excuses to skip gathering with God’s people?
Have you neglected using your gifts to serve others, retreating into self-interest instead of investing in a community of faith?
These are the areas where drifting often begins. The author of Hebrews warns that neglecting this great salvation will have serious consequences. He reminds us that the Law, delivered by angels, was binding and disobedience to it was met with just punishment. How much more severe will the consequences be if we neglect the salvation offered by Jesus, the Son who sits at the right hand of the Majesty (1:4)?.
Anchoring Ourselves to Salvation
So, how do we stay anchored?
The answer is not just to “read your Bible and pray,” though those are essential practices. Staying anchored requires a conscious effort, an intentional commitment, to remain in communion with God. It means recognising our deep need for Him and seeking to deepen our relationship with Him through worship, community, and obedience. This could look like:
Worship: Engage in both personal and corporate worship, reminding yourself of God’s greatness and your dependence on Him.
Community: Stay connected with other believers who can encourage, challenge, and support you in your walk with Jesus.
Obedience: Be diligent in following God’s commands, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude for the salvation He has given you.
In a world that constantly tests and tempts, it’s easy to let those ropes loosen and find ourselves drifting. Hebrews reminds us of the greatness of the salvation we have in Jesus—a salvation confirmed by the apostles, witnessed through signs and wonders, and guaranteed by the Holy Spirit. Don’t neglect it. Stay anchored to Jesus and live with confidence in His power and presence.
Like that securely tied boat, ensure that your faith is firmly anchored, not drifting away with the currents of life. Hold fast to the salvation that comes through Jesus, recognising the seriousness of the warning and the greatness of the gift we’ve been given.
This is a series through the Letter to the Hebrews, based on sermons I have preached over the course of our sermon series. For other posts in this series please see:
Angels are a subject that often fascinates our culture. From their depictions in art and literature to their appearances in pop culture, angels are often portrayed as powerful, mysterious beings. Shows like “Supernatural” or “Touched by an Angel” present them as celestial figures with their own personalities and missions, often serving as intermediaries between heaven and earth. Even in music, with songs like Robbie Williams’ “Angels,” we see them as symbols of hope and protection. Yet, as captivating as these portrayals are, the Bible gives us a much deeper understanding of angels and their role in God’s kingdom.
In the opening chapter of Hebrews, we find this truth: as significant as angels are, Jesus, the Son of God, is far greater.
This isn’t just a theological point but begins to form our understanding of the greatness of the salvation Jesus offers. The writer of Hebrews makes this clear by emphasising the supremacy of the Son over angels, which sets the stage for the rest of the letter.
Jesus Is Greater Than the Angels
Hebrews 1:5-14 focuses on establishing the supremacy of Jesus over the angels. The author does this by weaving together a series of Old Testament references—seven in total—to demonstrate that Jesus has always been greater than the angels.
1. The Reality of Angels
The Bible doesn’t question the existence of angels; it assumes their reality. They are mentioned throughout Scripture as servants of God, carrying out His will. Angels protected Abraham (Genesis 19:1), delivered the Law to Moses (Acts 7:53), ministered to Elijah (1 Kings 19:5), and announced the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26-38) and Joseph (Matthew 1:20-21). They even ministered to Jesus after His temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11). In Revelation 5:11-12, we see angels worshipping Jesus, declaring His worthiness to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honour, glory, and praise. Yet, despite their importance, they are never the focus of worship; that honour belongs to Jesus alone.
2. The Son’s Greater Name
The first point the writer makes is that Jesus’ name is far greater than any angelic name. In Hebrews 1:5, the author quotes Psalm 2:7 and 2 Samuel 7:14 to show that Jesus is uniquely identified as the Son of God. No angel has ever been given this title. The name of Jesus signifies His divine authority and unique relationship with the Father.
3. The Son is Worshipped by Angels
Hebrews 1:6-7 makes it clear that the angels worship Jesus (cf. Revelation 5:11-12). These divine celestial beings, who themselves are holy and God’s light, bow before Jesus, recognising His divine authority. This reinforces the idea that Jesus is not just another spiritual being; He is the object of angelic worship.
4. The Son’s Exaltation
Jesus has been exalted to the right hand of God, a position higher than the angels. This idea is supported by several Psalms (Psalm 45:6-7; 102:25-27; 110:1) quoted by the writer. The right hand of God is a place of supreme honour and authority, and it is here that Jesus is seated, ruling over all creation, including the angels.
5. Angels as Servants
Finally, Hebrews 1:14 tells us that angels are sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. This highlights their role as servants, not rulers. Their purpose is to assist in the unfolding of God’s plan, particularly in the lives of those who are saved by Jesus. This service again highlights the salvation Jesus offers, how it is so much greater that angels are sent to aid in its fulfilment.
This first chapter of Hebrews serves as a powerful reminder: while angels are significant in God’s plan, they are not to be worshipped or revered above Jesus.
The Son of God is far greater.
He is the one whom the angels worship, and He is the one who holds the universe together.
As we move into Hebrews chapter 2, we’ll see why this salvation that Jesus brings is something we must never neglect.
This is a series through the Letter to the Hebrews, based on sermons I have preached over the course of our sermon series. For other posts in this series please see:
The world is constantly changing, sometimes rapidly. Take technology for example. Remember when floppy disks were cutting-edge? Those little square disks held all our data and seemed revolutionary at the time. Then came CDs, USB drives, and portable hard drives. Now, we store and share data wirelessly through this mysterious cloud, data centres in various parts of the world. This evolution is a reminder that things change, often quickly, and how what was once essential can become no longer.
In the opening verses of Hebrews, this idea of change is made front and centre. The writer introduces us to a new season in which God has revealed Himself in a way that surpasses all previous revelations—through His Son, Jesus.
Jesus Is the Great Son
In Hebrews 1:1-4, we read:
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
These verses highlight the supremacy of Jesus. He is greater than all who came before, the ultimate way in which God has chosen to reveal Himself.
God is a God Who Speaks
From the very beginning, God has been speaking. Genesis 1:3 tells us, “God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” God continues to communicate with His creation, including us, giving instructions and maintaining a relationship with us. He is not distant; He is present, like a friend who is always just a call away, ready to help whenever we need it.
Yet, despite God’s openness, we often hide from Him, just as Adam and Eve did in the garden after their rebellion. They were afraid, so they hid, but God sought them out. Similarly, when we realise our own shortcomings, we tend to withdraw, but God seeks us out, desiring a restored relationship. He wants to comfort and reassure us. The question is, do we have open hearts to hear from Him?
God Spoke Through the Prophets
In the past, God communicated through prophets in various ways. He spoke to Abraham in a vision (Genesis 15:1), to Moses through a burning bush (Exodus 3:2-4), to Samuel through a dream (1 Samuel 3:4-10), and to David through the prophet Nathan (2 Samuel 7:4-5). When we receive important news it may come via personal letter but probably via email or text or a phone call. Whatever the case, the message or important news is communicated to you. In the Old Testament, God’s messages were relayed through His prophets.
God Speaks Through His Son
But now, in these last days, God speaks to us through His Son. The writer of Hebrews emphasises that we are in a new era. The end times began with Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and they will continue until Jesus returns. From this time on Jesus is final and complete revelation of God. As we seek to hear God’s voice and know His will, we turn to Jesus.
Hebrews 1:2-4 gives us insight into the Son’s place and role. Jesus is the heir of all things, the creator and sustainer of the universe, and the exact representation of God’s being. He holds the universe together with His powerful word and sustains us.
Jesus’ role is further confirmed by His actions. He provided purification for our sins through His death on the cross, allowing us to draw near to God with sincere hearts and the assurance that comes from faith. Though it might seem strange to modern ears, the concept of being cleansed by Jesus’ blood is deeply rooted in Scripture, from the sacrificial system of the Old Testament to the teachings of the New Testament.
Conclusion
Finally, we see Jesus exalted, seated at the right hand of God (1:4). This position confirms His superiority over everything that came before Him. Jesus, as the heir, sustainer, and purifier, is greater than the angels, the Law, Moses, the prophets, and the priests.
Just as floppy disks and CDs have been replaced by more advanced technology, the old ways of understanding God have been surpassed by the ultimate revelation through His Son. Jesus isn’t just an update; He’s the final word, the complete picture of who God is and what He desires for us.
The encouragement for us is simple: listen for His voice, trust in His authority, and worship Him as the sustainer of our world. We are to live in the light of His exaltation, seek His presence daily, and reflect His glory in all that we do.
This is a series through the Letter to the Hebrews, based on sermons I have preached over the course of our sermon series. For other posts in this series please see:
Have you ever found yourself at the point where you realised whatever you’re doing isn’t worth the time, energy, or effort to continue, so you quit?
Many of us have experienced this with various things in life, like gym memberships, growing a veggie patch in our yard, or even more significant commitments like jobs or relationships. It’s a common human experience.
We’ve begun a new sermon series at our church where we’re diving into the book of Hebrews, a letter that inspires and encourages us not to quit but to persevere in our walk with Jesus.
The central message of Hebrews is that Jesus is greater than all. He is the ultimate revelation of God, providing us with everything we need for our souls, life, and faith. This then leads to the constant encouragement to not give up, to not quit the faith, but to keep on keeping on.
If you’ve ever signed up for a gym membership, then you may have experienced something of the following. You sign up inspired to get healthy, turn up 3-4 times per week, and want to make use of the classes on offer or the swimming pool in the complex. But about 6 weeks in, the results aren’t there. Another 6 weeks later, you realise you haven’t attended in a while, and then 6 weeks after that, you realise you’re paying a good amount of money for nothing. So, you quit. You give up on it.
In our faith we may be tempted to do the same. We get some months or years or even decades down the road of faith and drift. We drift so much, we decide it’s not true, or not worth the time, or we’re not longer convinced it’s worth it.
This is where the message of Hebrews comes in. It is written to encourage us not to give up, but to persevere in light of who Jesus is and what he has done for us. It is written with teachings, with warnings, and with encouragements to help us do just that. To keep going.
This sermonic letter opens with a majestic declaration:
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)
As the letter progresses, we see that Jesus is greater than the angels, Moses, the priests, and the old sacrificial system. He is our Great High Priest, who mediates between God and his people, and offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice once and for all. This truth is at the heart of our faith and is written to give us the strength to keep going.
Toward the end of the book Hebrews 12:1-2 says the following to continue this encouragement:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
In our faith journey, we might face moments where we want to quit due to life’s challenges, doubts, or our own shortcomings. But we are not alone. We are surrounded by a ‘great cloud of witnesses’—those who have gone before us and those walking alongside us. Most importantly, we have Jesus, who endured the cross for us and intercedes for us.
The continued encouragement is to commit to running the race of faith with faith, fixing our eyes on Jesus, and drawing strength from His example and the community of believers around us.
I look forward to sharing more on Hebrews in coming months as we explore this book.
I am often amazed when I hear stories of people who have gone through such hardship and suffering yet they are still so filled with joy. Recently I heard testimony of believers and Christian workers who were still joyful and hopeful despite being displaced and impoverished because of the war in Ukraine. Those brothers and sisters from Myanmar, who have now moved nearby to where I live, are often full of joy, despite the tragedy to their families and communities. And then there are those closer to home who have gone through the loss of employment, significant health battles, or grief in losing a child and yet they have an enduring joy.
How can this be?
Well, the letter to the Philippians answers that question by giving us a picture of Christ. A picture of Christ that highlights the greatness of his character and who he is. For in knowing Christ and more of him we find an enduring joy and a persistent contentment in our lives.
In our world joy is portrayed to us differently. It is sold to us through material means, or short-term experiences, or goods and services we may use. I mean, even the box that held our online shopping recently had written across it, “a little bit of joy”.
When we come to the Bible, we find joy described in numerous ways.
In the Old testament joy comes through the religious practice of the people of Israel, through the festivals, celebration, and worship of God. The Psalms describe joy in personal adoration and through corporate worship (Psalms 42:4; 81:1-3; 16:8ff; 43:4). Isaiah associates joy with the fullness of God’s salvation and with anticipation of our future state with God (Isa 49:13; 61:10ff).
When we come to the New Testament, we find joy first described through Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:10) then through his entry into Jerusalem toward the end of his life and also after the resurrection (Mark 11:9ff; Luke 19:37; Matthew 28:8). Jesus speaks of joy being the result of a deep relationship with him (John 15:11; 16:22-24). In Acts and Paul’s letters joy is shown to come through (a) being part of the body of Christ, (b) the outcome of suffering and sorrow for Christ’s sake, and (c) a gift of the Holy Spirit that comes from the love of God toward us and our love toward God (Acts 13:52), and described as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Given that joy is a gift to us we are called to share in the joy of Christ and walk with him in rejoicing in the knowledge and salvation of Christ.
Knowing Christ
In Philippians joy is attached to knowing Christ.
In knowing Christ, we find an everlasting joy that is deeper than that online shopping experience, or that Big Mac you craved for lunch, or the superannuation package you’ve just signed up for. Whatever joy is being sold to us there is nothing that compares to the joy of Christ, which holds through times of gratitude and happiness as well as through times of deep grief and sadness.
For Paul joy comes through his partnership in the gospel with the Philippian church (1:1-11). It comes through the friendship he has with them; it comes through the unity they strive to have with one-another (2:2), and it comes through the ministry he undertakes on their behalf and in his service to them (2:17-18). As they progress in the faith his joy abounds, and despite the circumstances he finds himself in and the heritage had as a Jewish leader (3:7-8), it is only through knowing Christ as Lord that he is able to say, ‘to live is Christ and to die is gain’ (1:21).
Knowing Christ Forms Our Character
I don’t have a radical conversion story. I was bought up in a Christian home and God and faith have been part of my story since I was born. And for many of us we may look upon our own faith journey as being rather ordinary. But I’m aware of others, and you may be too, who have found Christ and had a total change in their character.
As Paul writes to the Philippians, we read that life in Christ impacts our character, whether we’ve had a radical conversion or not.
This is most clearly seen in the high note of this letter, a poetic-like section, that speaks of Christ’s humility. In 2:5-11, Paul encourages the church to adopt the attitude of Christ. He writes,
5 Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus,
6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited. 7 Instead he emptied himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity. And when he had come as a man, 8 he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death— even to death on a cross. 9 For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow— in heaven and on earth and under the earth— 11 and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Here is the call to follow Christ’s example in his humility, but it also highlights the character of Christ. It is what we might call high Christology, helping us understand more of who Christ is.
And what do we learn of the character of Christ?
We learn that he is humble.
Even though Christ is God and was with God and existed together with God he did not use his position to his advantage or to advance himself. Instead, he let go of such a position in order to become a servant to God and to humanity. He humbled himself, came into our world as a man, and then was obedient or submitted to the will of God to such an extent that he would die on a cross to serve and save the world.
This is the gospel, this is the good news.
And in this good news we see the character of Christ.
Christ willingly leaving his elevated and first position in order to become last and be of service to the world.
In Jesus’ lifetime he not only displays his character, but he also teaches his disciples about this virtue of humility.
On at least one occasion the disciples are arguing about who is the greatest among them. I’m amused when I think of what that conversation must have been like because I wonder if it was like those conversations people have about who is the GOAT – the greatest of all-time, whether it me a footballer, or basketballer, or cricket player. They just turn into a bit of a mess. But in response to their debate among themselves Jesus tells them, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last and servant of all” (Mark 9:33-37).
And this is exactly what Christ does. He has become last and a servant for all and in doing so he is exalted and lifted on high.
Christ’s character was modelled through his preaching and teaching and through what he does.
Knowing Christ Impacts Our Conduct
Early in the letter Paul deals with those who are preaching the message of Christ out of selfish ambition (1:17), in chapter two he calls the church to be united (2:2) and encourages them to hold to the word of life (2:17). In chapter three Paul speaks about the confidence many have in the flesh and their own actions. He talks about his own heritage which many would believe puts him in a good position to be right with God (3:4-6). And as he writes these things he has Christ at the forefront. For in knowing Christ we will conduct ourselves in a way that is worthy of the gospel (1:27).
And this is what he writes to the church in 1:27, “Just one thing: As citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ.”
First, note that we have a heavenly citizenship. We are part of the people of God who have an everlasting citizenship. This is assuring in and of itself.
But second, the way in which we conduct ourselves is to be worthy of the gospel. There are practical implications for us as we know and grow in Christ.
For the church in Philippi this conduct is expressed in being united with one-another and putting others first (2:2-3). It is doing everything without grumbling and arguing (2:14). It is holding firm to the word of life (2:16). It is standing firm in the faith together despite those who wish to add to the gospel or destroy the church through self-centred and law-adding false teaching (3:2-6). It is rejoicing in the Lord (3:1; 4:4). It is by being gracious toward others (4:5). It is by not worrying about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition, presenting requests to God (4:5-6). And it is by dwelling on that which is just, pure, lovely, and commendable (4:8).
Joy in Christ comes from knowing him. And in knowing him we find our character and our conduct transformed. Transformed into conduct worth of the gospel of Christ.
This post is part of an ongoing series where we will dive into the themes, messages, and lessons found throughout the book of Philippians.
As Easter Week concludes today, we go out on an incredible high. For today we are reminded of the power of the gospel, of the power of God in restoring His people to Himself. This restoration achieving its completion through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The resurrection of Jesus is not simply a historical event, but a transformative reality that has the power to change our lives. It is a declaration of the power of God to bring new life out of death, to restore and renew all that has been broken. Just as Jesus’ body was raised to new life, so too can we be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit and made new in Him.
I’m no runner but I’ve known plenty of people competing in marathons or triathlons where they push their bodies to the limits. When they cross the finish line, they are exhausted but full of excitement and accomplishment as they have the satisfaction of knowing they have completed the race. Like crossing the finish line after a race brings a sense of satisfaction, the resurrection reminds us of the victory we have in Jesus, giving us a reason to hope and to trust in a loving and powerful God. The resurrection of Jesus represents for us the victory over sin and death, and in so doing restores us to God. In this restoration we find we can have a relationship with Him, and a satisfaction in life and death because of His work for us.
The resurrection is another tangible demonstration of God’s great love and grace for all who believe. In amongst the sin, the suffering, and the hopelessness that can often pervade our news and social media streams, we can know that the resurrection gives us a reason to hope, a reason to trust, and a reason to love.
Through the power of the gospel our lives are impacted, they are transformed. And this impact is not just for us but for the entire world. Through the resurrection Jesus’ victory over sin and death has the power to bring about healing and restoration throughout our world. It is a message of hope for all people.
While today marks the end of this series and the end of the Easter events it is only the beginning of living in the power of the gospel. As we have worked through these passages from the Gospel of Mark we see the ways in which Jesus fulfils God’s plan for humanity, fulfils that which was written long ago, and fulfils the hole in our soul with the satisfying love, hope, and peace we have with God.
This is a devotional series I’ve written for my church for Easter Week 2023. It follows the Passion narrative in the Gospel of Mark. This is day 8 of 8.
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In Mark 15:42-47, Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Jewish council, asks Pilate for permission to take Jesus’ body and give him a proper burial. In doing so he shows a final act of love and respect toward Jesus.
This act of love by Joseph would have been costly for him, most likely resulting in him losing his position and influence in the community. However, he chose to prioritise the honouring of Jesus, recognising His significance, and giving Him a dignified burial over his own reputation.
In our own lives we show love and respect to others in a wide variety of ways, some large acts of love like a wedding ceremony to small everyday actions like writing someone a text to show we are thinking of them. It could be taking the time to listen or offering a kind word to someone struggling. It could mean forgiving someone that has hurt us or being compassionate towards those who are often overlooked.
Those who work in hospice, aged, or palliative care are great examples of people providing comfort and support to people who are at the end of their lives. They offer compassion and dignity to patients and their families, helping them to navigate difficult times with grace and love. In so doing they are imitating that which Joseph does here for Jesus’ body, recognising the need for dignity and honour, and in turn bringing glory to God.
Furthermore, alongside being a costly exercise for Joseph it also highlights the risk he took in honouring Jesus. Mark’s description of Joseph in verse 43 highlights his spiritual perspective as he waited for the Kingdom of God to come, indicating that he recognized there was more to life than just the present one.
Joseph’s status as a “secret disciple of Jesus” (John 19:38) was also noted by Matthew, who referred to him as someone “who had become a follower of Jesus” (Matthew 27:57). While Joseph had previously kept his faith quiet, this risk he was taking would bring it from private to public.
As a follower of Jesus it is possible to keep your faith private for a period of time, but eventually God may call you to go public with it. This can be risky, but it is a necessary step in our growth as believers. In so doing it helps us own our faith for ourselves, deepens our reliance on God, and encourages the faith of others around us. For Joseph he got to care for his Saviour in a personal way and was blessed in being part of honouring Jesus in His death.
I wonder, is there a step of faith, a possibly costly or risky step, that God is calling you to take this Easter?
This is a devotional series I’ve written for my church for Easter Week 2023. It follows the Passion narrative in the Gospel of Mark. This is day 7 of 8.
If you’d like them to hit your inbox each morning then please subscribe here.
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