The sermon centers on Philippians 3:7-14, where the Apostle Paul outlines his singular life purpose: knowing Christ. Brother Edward emphasizes that Paul, despite his high social status, elite education, and prestigious position in the Jewish parliament, chose to reclassify these “gains” as “loss” and “rubbish” (literally translated as excrement) for the sake of Christ.

• The Surpassing Value: Knowing Christ is the “surpassing greatness” that renders all worldly achievements insignificant.

• The Three-Fold Goal: Paul’s purpose consists of knowing Christ’s person, the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings.

• The Pressing Forward: Spiritual maturity is not a finished state but a continuous “straining toward what is ahead” and “pressing on toward the goal.”

Brother Edward challenges the congregation to evaluate what “price” they are willing to pay to know the Lord. He identifies four worldly pillars that often hinder spiritual progress:
Money: The pursuit of wealth vs. the discipline of tithing.
Relationships: Human love or family pressure that may conflict with faith.
Position: Social status and the desire for worldly respect.
Security/Jobs: Professional stability that can become an idol.

Response:

• Adopt a “Spirit of Denial”: Actively identify “good” things that have become “bad” because they obstruct the view of Christ.

• Daily Nourishment: Treat prayer and scripture as biological necessities (like eating and sleeping) rather than optional activities.

• Embrace the Cross: Redefine “carrying the cross” not as enduring difficult people, but as a daily sacrifice of the “old self” and worldly comforts.

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Synopsis

The sermon defines “knowing Christ” as the ultimate life purpose. Using Paul’s life and modern testimonies of persecuted believers, the preacher argues that true spiritual gain requires the strategic loss of worldly status. Believers are urged to view secular success as “rubbish” compared to the eternal prize of Christ.