Tenth & Broad Church of Christ Podcast Unknown

In this sermon on Philippians 2:12-13, Ken explains that while we have a role to "work out" our salvation, it is ultimately God working in us. He identifies fear, grumbling/complaining, and arguing as things that hinder us spiritually, and prescribes two spiritual exercises: 1) Remembering daily that God is in you, with you, around you, and for you, and 2) Practicing gratitude instead of grumbling. But first we need Christ to give us a new heart.

In his sermon, Ken explores the path to happiness outlined in Philippians 2, emphasizing that humility leads to harmony, which in turn leads to happiness. He provides four practical steps for cultivating humility: avoiding pride, embracing humbleness, paying attention to others, and asking "What Would Jesus Do?" in every situation. Ken concludes by highlighting Jesus' ultimate example of humility, which includes not demanding rights, serving others, and doing what is right even when painful, and reminds the congregation that God rewards humility with eternal happiness.

Ken explains the biblical origins and role of deacons as servants in the church who assist with practical needs. He walks through the specific process their church uses to nominate, examine, and affirm qualified men to serve as deacons. The primary qualifications are having a good reputation, integrity, faithfulness to one's family, commitment to the faith, and a willingness to serve humbly.

The path to true happiness is through humility and putting others before yourself, not pride and selfishness. This humble path leads to harmony in relationships, which brings real joy - as modeled by Jesus. Following Jesus by repenting of pride and dying to self opens the way to God's blessings and lasting happiness.

On Senior Sunday, Hunter preached from 2 Timothy 2:20-22, encouraging the graduating seniors to flee youthful passions and instead pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace, and a community rooted in Christ. Using the metaphor of being honorable vessels or instruments, he urged them to align their lives with God's principles and promises as they transition into this next phase of adulthood. Above all, Hunter reminded them that God has good plans to give them a hopeful future if they wholeheartedly pursue Him.

Even in difficult circumstances like imprisonment, the Apostle Paul remained joyful by trusting God, staying focused on his purpose of serving Christ, and having an eternal perspective. True happiness comes not from self-gratification but from self-sacrifice, anchoring your life fully in Christ. With the right perspective, prayer, the Holy Spirit's help, and faith in God's purposes, you can overcome any pressure or pain and be happy no matter what.