A Life That Desires Christ

In this sermon from Refuge Church, Pastor Ben Garrett delivers a powerful exhortation on what it means for a Christian life to be fully oriented toward knowing and being known by Christ. Drawing from Philippians 3:12–4:1, he unpacks four foundational principles: first, a life desiring Christ is marked by faithful striving—pressing forward in sanctification without being weighed down by past guilt, trauma, or triumphs. Second, maturity in faith requires imitating godly examples, especially the pastors and mature members of the local church, not internet influencers. Third, Paul warns against false teachers whose 'god is their belly'—those who live in shameless indulgence or prideful self-reliance, both of which betray a misplaced hope. Finally, the only lasting foundation for this life of pursuit is the believer's heavenly citizenship, where Christ will transform our bodies into glorious ones. The sermon culminates in a call to humility, vigilance, and unwavering hope in Christ alone, reminding listeners that this life is not their ultimate home or hope.