Summary:
This sermon explores what it means to live in gospel-rooted dependence on God rather than self. It contrasts the life of the proud and self-reliant (e.g., the Pharisee, Ananias, and the rich young ruler) with that of the humble and dependent (e.g., the tax collector, early church, and Christ Himself).

True Christian living requires unity, humility, and a willingness to surrender everything. The ultimate example is Jesus, who emptied Himself and was exalted because of His complete obedience and trust in the Father. We are called to follow His model—to let go of pride, possessions, and self-sufficiency—and shine as lights in a dark world through joyful surrender.  (Philippians 2:1–18, Luke 18, Luke 14).

Outline:
I. Reality Check: everyone depends on something: money, self, status, or God. Jesus’ parables reveal the dangers of pride and self-reliance, as well as the blessings of humble surrender. True grace is found not in performance but in mercy received.

II. Call to Christlike humility:

• Believers are to be of the same mind, the mind of Christ, who emptied Himself and took the form of a servant.
• The church is to resist selfish ambition and instead value others above self, as seen in the early church's radical generosity and shared mission (Acts 4).
• Pride divides, but humility unites. Harsh judgment of others reveals spiritual blindness, while grace teaches us to address our own sin before confronting others (Matt. 7:1–5).
• The rich young ruler (Luke 18) serves as a tragic example of someone unwilling to relinquish earthly dependence for eternal treasure. In contrast, Jesus gave up everything for us.

III. Paul’s personal journey - his self-image grows smaller while God's mercy becomes greater—"least of the apostles,” “less than the least of the saints,” “chief of sinners.” True maturity means increasing dependence on God.

IV. Finally, Philippians 2:12–18 exhorts believers to shine as lights in a dark world by living out joyful, obedient dependence, free from grumbling and full of purpose.