This past Sunday, I preached from Philippians 2:16-18. I entitled the message, “How to be a Living Sermon.”

I labeled the sermon based upon a poem that I had read by an anonymous author. But for some reason, I did not have the guts to quote the poem in either of my two sermon presentations Sunday. But, apparently, I do have the guts to publish it here. So here it is:

I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day.
I’d rather one would walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear.
Fine counsel is confusing, but example’s always clear.
The best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds.
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you’ll let me see it done.
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
The lectures you deliver may be very wise and true.
But I’d rather get my lesson by observing what you do.
I may not understand the high advice that you may give.
But there’s no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

And here is the sermon skeleton from Sunday’s sermon:

Title: “How to be a Living Sermon”

Text: Philippians 2:16-18

Theme: An example of humble servanthood

Point: We should live in such a way that our walk matches our talk.

Outline:

I. Live purposefully.

A. To live purposefully requires partnership.

B. To live purposefully requires perspective.

C. To live purposefully requires perseverance.

II. Live sacrificially.

A. We sacrifice by laying down our lives for Christ.

B. We sacrifice by laying down our lives for the church.

III. Live joyfully.