BULLETIN OUTLINE Chain Reaction: Where IT Is Philippians 3:10-11 02.16.

14 Tom Oyler, Lead Pastor embracing Christ alone as the sufficient Savior and as the supreme object of personal knowledge. experiencing the benefits of His life-changing power. engaging the suffering and sacrifices involved in following Him. expecting the possibility of being with Him at any moment. LOOKING BACK Chain Reaction: Where IT Is

Philippians 3:10-11

Have you ever been where IT is? You might be able to tell by mentally graphing your level of disappointment in your life and how you have responded to it. In so many ways, this matter determines the direction of your life more than anything else. The alternative? Knowing God. He is IT. Thinking it Through

Once you become aware that the main business that you are here for is to know God, most of life's problems fall into place of their own accord.
~J.I. Packer

The journey does not transpire like a treasure hunt, such that if we follow the instructions and look hard enough we will find the treasure. No, the journey itself is the goal. The very quest for God, our determined pursuit, changes us in the ways that matter most.
~Philip Yancey

There would seem to be nothing more obvious, more tangible and palpable, than the present moment. And yet it eludes us completely.
~Milan Kundera-The Art of the Novel

Working it Out 1. What about these verses and the message do you want to remember and experience more of 3 years from now?

2. What can you do now to increase the odds that you will be where you want to be in three years?

3. What are some disappointments or sufferings that you are in right now and how would understanding and committing to Where IT Is make a difference in your journey?

LOOKING AHEAD Chain Reaction: The Best is Yet to Come

Philippians 3:12-16

In my best moments I catch a glimpse (or is it a dream?) of the me I long to be. I imagine that I was more loving, more courageous, more forgiving, less selfish. My heart beats faster at the thought of transformation that I would love my wife better, serve my neighbors, love God passionately, and become the father my children deserve. But most days the image in the mirror seems to only vaguely resemble that man a hint here or there peeking out from behind tired eyes. Yet through Scripture I am convinced actual transformation is a real hope for those in Christ. In fact, Paul wrote that it is our destiny. The best is yet to come.

Looking It Up Read Philippians 3:12-16. In verse 12, what is the word it referring to? (You will need to back up and read the previous verses to pick up the context.) Can you explain Pauls play on words in the second half of verse 12? (so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.) How was Paul laid hold of by Christ, and what does Paul now desire to lay hold of? How do you think a failure to forget what lies behind could hinder your growth as a follower of Jesus? What is it that lies ahead (vs. 13)? What other verses in the immediate context clue you in on what Paul is referring to? Paul likely has in mind a sports metaphor in mind in verses 13-14. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 is another passage where Paul uses this kind of imagery. Look up these verses to better understand how Paul might be using the metaphor. What is meant by verse 16? (It may be helpful to read this verse in several different translations if you have access to them.) What do you think Paul is teaching about transformation in these verses? (What is the goal of transformation? Who is responsible for it? When and how is it experienced? What is our role in it?)