DNA Of A Dangerous Church - Day 15

Day 15 - Friday, August 30
Read Philippians 3

Highlight
One writing technique that Paul uses in his letters is exemplification, where he will alternate between the positive and negative traits his audience should uphold or avoid. Here in chapter three he warns against boasting in the flesh, or boasting in your own capabilities.
Paul runs through how he could have confidence in the flesh because we was “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.” (vv. 5-6). All of those things should have made him a perfect Jewish citizen. He would have had every reason to boast. Yet he “consider(s) everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (v 8). From this, Paul urges the church to follow his example - to not boast in the flesh, but to know Christ Jesus as Lord.

Reflection & Prayer

For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method.  It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.  We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading.  It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal.  But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.

S.O.A.P. Method

Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?

Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?

Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?

Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).