Title: Shining Like Stars
Text: Philippians 2:14-18
Date: April 28, 2024

Introduction: Who are the stars from God’s point of view? Who are the heavenly celebrities who shine like stars? For Christians, this is a familiar image. Jesus himself said, “You are the light of the world…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14,16). Paul said the same thing in Philippians 2:15, “You will shine among them like stars in the sky.” “You shine like stars in the world” (Holman Christian Standard Bible). The word “star” was also used in the first century for a navigational beacon that would shine in the dark to lead the ships safely into the harbor. Christians are bright stars in the dark world. We are put here to shine the light and so guide others safely home to God. We are reminded of this in the children’s song: This Little Light of Mine

VERSE 1
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

VERSE 2
Won’t let Satan blow it out, I’m gonna let it shine.
Won’t let Satan blow it out, I’m gonna let it shine.
Won’t let Satan blow it out, I’m gonna let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
(kidssundayschoolplace.com)

How can we shine “like stars in the sky” (Philippians 2:15) in our society? How can we live in such way that we will positively influence people who are around us? Let’s notice four suggestions in our text.

I. We need to

grumbling or arguing. (Philippians 2:14)

II. We need to

out from the world. (Philippians 2:15)

III. We need to

the faith. (Philippians 2:16)

IV. We need to

a grateful spirit. (Philippians 2:17-18)

Larry Gipson
First Baptist Church-Oneonta