I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

Professional football players E-D-S football. Professional musicians E-D-S music. What do professional Christians do?

No – I’m not talking about “paid” Christians. Talking about well- trained, servant Christians. What do they do?

 If we are truly professional Christians then we EAT, DRINK, SLEEP Jesus Christ.  How CRUCIFORM is your life?  How CRUCIFORM should it be?

Paul’s hope for sufficient courage (VS. 20) Shameless Christianity is bold, courageous Christianity. Bold Christianity exalts Christ.

 1 Corinthians 16:13 -- Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.  Hebrews 3:6 -- But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.

 "I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.”

 True Christians live with an eternal focus (vs )  What do I do if I live?  What do I do if I die?

 Paul has no doubts about his future  (vs )  Paul has no doubts about his present  Either situation demands the same lifestyle.

 The cruciform life is a constant striving for progress. (Vs )  The cruciform life leads to deeper joy in faith.  The cruciform life creates overflowing Christians.

 Honestly, how would you fill in these blanks:  For me to live is ___________________?  For me to die is ___________________?  Is your life really cruciform?  If not, surrender whatever is holding you back.  Can Christ depend on you?