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AfterThoughts: December 28, 2025

December 28, 2025
Gospel Living
Philippians 1:27–30

This week, Dr. Brad Gowing shared a special message from Philippians about Gospel Living. In his message, he explains that:

  • We should live in a manner worthy of the Gospel.
  • The Gospel calls us to stand firm in unity.
  • The Gospel empowers us to stand firm in the face of opposition.

GOING DEEPER: 

  • Rev. Brad Gowing, Dawson’s Executive Pastor, asked us to think about how we respond when God gives us something we did not want. It is easy to be thankful when we get what we do want. But in Philippians 1:27–30, the Apostle Paul wrote that one of the most valuable gifts God gives His children is suffering. How do you respond when God grants you circumstances, people, and situations in your life that are irritating, frustrating, or even devastating?
     
  • In Philippians 1, Paul was writing about humility, trials, faith, and perseverance to a group of young, fearful Christians because he had been arrested for preaching Christ. Paul urged the Philippian believers with one strong instruction: no matter what happens, they (and we) are to live in a manner worthy of the Gospel (verse 27). Brad shared that Paul doesn’t mean that we somehow make ourselves worthy of salvation or that we earn a place in the kingdom of heaven. Rather, that we live in a manner that shows that we are citizens of heaven. How can you change your schedule this week for more reflection and prayer regarding the manner in which your life does or does not reflect the Gospel?
     
  • The Gospel calls us to stand firm in unity (verse 27). Life may not always be easy, but it is much more doable for us when we do it together in unity, striving side by side. Brad shared that one part of our living in a manner worthy of the Gospel is putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11). Another part is embracing the body of Christ as we stand firm together and hold each other accountable as we strive to live a life that reflects the goodness and glory of God. Who are those close friends who really know you and hold you accountable? How does your church family help you stay focused on the call of the Gospel in suffering trials, and challenges?
     
  • The Gospel empowers us to stand firm in the face of opposition (verses 28–30). Brad shared that the Bible makes it clear that faith in Jesus and following Him will bring persecution. This suffering has been granted to us for the sake of Christ. The word “granted” is the word for "grace." Although it feels counterintuitive, it is God’s grace to us to suffer, and it is a privilege to suffer in the name of Jesus. We can endure suffering and persecution because we know that it is not for our sake, but for the sake of Jesus Christ, for His honor and glory. How are you using your suffering to exalt Christ? As we stand on the edge of this new year, how can you practice having a rejoicing spirit knowing that you are counted worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus? How can you more fully participate in your Life Group or in the life of our church in order to find strength in the unity of the body of Christ when you do suffer?

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 

  • To view past sermons, please click here.

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24–26

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