A Solid Foundation

Be a Timothy: Emptied - Philippians 2:19-24 (July 12, 2020) by Michael B. Linton

Obedience is how we work out our sanctification (holiness). However, it's not merely the obedience of following the rules, it's the obedience that results in a relationship with Jesus that acknowledges Him as Lord of our life. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Jesus emptied and humbled Himself. The God exalted and named Him. One day, every person will exalt Him as King and name Him as Lord. The question is: on which side of your death will this happen. There is a time where it's too late. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Paul tells us to have the same attitude as Jesus. What was that attitude? To empty Himself of the glory He rightly owned and deserved, and to humble Himself to become what He wasn't and endure what He shouldn't. That's what we should be like. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

God's promise to heal the land in this passage translates to the Church of Jesus today. God will heal His church. However, He won't just heal it when believers pray, but when believers 1) humble themselves, 2) pray, 3) seek His face, and 4) repent. Until all conditions are met, we can expect no healing. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Want to know how to have unity in the church? Put everyone else before yourself. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

To live worthy as Christians is live our true citizenship: not as citizens of any country, but as citizens of God's kingdom. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

No matter what happens in life, believers are to have two responses: Jesus while I'm living, Jesus when I die. We can face anything with that mindset. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Persecution, big or small, of believers is expected, is a grace from God, and is a blessing. The gospel message is advanced best under persecution. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

In the church, fellowship was never meant to be potlucks and skate nights, but to be partnership in the cause of Christ. We need to partner together to pray for our church's mission. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

As believers, we are are both salves and saints. That puts us in some pretty good company, but it also brings a great deal of responsibility. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

The great problem is sin. The great result is judgment. The great need is salvation. The Great Savior is Jesus. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Our cry of "How long?" during our times of suffering are no burden for God. He has not left us, he hears our prayers, and his children will sing his praises for eternity. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

There is a lot of information--a lot of words--out there that isn't true. The truth comes from God, and His words are words of protection and promise. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

In the midst of a global pandemic and a tanking economy, how can we find joy? Because of the Sovereign God we serve. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

A decision must be made by every individual and every church, regardless of past mistakes and future uncertainties, that we will be obedient to the call to share the gospel with all people. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

When we are obedient to the call of God, we are blessed with protection THROUGH the completion of the call and ability FOR the completion of the call. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Sometimes, the storm is the hardest place to remain obedient to God. Sometimes, the storm is exactly what God is using to get us back to obedience. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

If you believe what you claim to believe, if you live what you claim to believe, the world will think you’re crazy. Let them. Own it. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Who is lord of your life? Ultimately, who, or what, do you trust to get you through the rough and smooth places? As a believer, our only trust is in Jesus - not government or money or ourselves or anything else. Only Jesus is Lord. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

There's a reason God will lead us a certain direction: because all the other directions are wrong, no matter what we think. He really does know best. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

A great step of faith is only acceptable if God has told you to take it. A step taken in faith, without the command of God, is disobedience. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Satan will attack. People will attack. Life will attack. But, when the attack comes, where will you be found? We can take refuge in the Lord, but it's best if that is where we live, and not just where we run to in hard times. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Christmas Characters The last message in our series on Christmas characters is about Anna. She was faithful to God. She waited. She served. She worshiped. She fulfilled her ministry. And she was rewarded for her faithfulness. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA

Christmas Characters The second message in our series on Christmas characters is about Joseph. He was determined to live in a righteousness manner. The very little about him in the gospels shows him being righteous over and over. Michael Linton, Pastor FBC Sulphur, LA