Sometimes the best way to understand something is to look at its opposite. We've been orbiting around the tight cluster of imperatives and theological facts in the early verses of Colossians 3. We have died with Christ; but we are raised. We should, in light of that truth, live a higher life, liberated from the slavery we suffered in the kingdom of Satan. Easier said than done, Paul! It's even difficult for us to find models for that level of Christian experience. So what if we look at negative examples - people so worldly-minded they're no heavenly good? Today we'll turn left one book, and open not to Colossians, but to Philippians, chapter 3.

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In the kingdom of God, being comes before doing. In recent episodes we've heard Paul say that we're to "put off the old self;" and that former "us" had to go - he was no good. When we come to Colossians 3:12 the Apostle will tell us to "put on" some things... but not before he reminds us that these are not "good works" as we used to think about them; ways to earn "brownie points" with God. They're expressions of a new nature, and He is the sovereign Source. Here's part 1 of the sermon The Proof is in the Product from Pastor Jim.

This message can be purchased, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for just $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free.