True Freedom and Happiness Through Dependence on Christ

Summary

As we reflect on the words that shaped our nation nearly 250 years ago, we see that the Declaration of Independence was deeply influenced by Christian thought, even as it drew from other philosophies. The famous phrase “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” is not just a political slogan, but a profound statement about the human condition and our God-given rights. Life and liberty are relatively straightforward—God gives us life, and He grants us the freedom to choose. But the “pursuit of happiness” has been misunderstood in our culture. Today, happiness is often reduced to fleeting emotional highs or personal pleasure, but the founders—and more importantly, Scripture—point to something deeper: a steady, enduring joy rooted in virtue, human flourishing, and a life aligned with God’s purposes.

Paul’s letter to the Philippians gives us a powerful lens to understand this. Writing from prison, Paul speaks of a joy and contentment that transcends circumstances. He has learned to be content in all situations, not because of his own strength, but because of his dependence on Christ. Authentic happiness, then, is not found in independence from all authority, but in complete dependence on Jesus. This is the paradox of Christian freedom: when we declare total independence from God, we become enslaved to sin and the fleeting pleasures of this world. But when we surrender and depend on Christ, we find true liberty and joy.

Paul warns against two distortions: the “gospel plus” (adding requirements to Christ’s work) and the “gospel minus” (using grace as a license to sin). Both lead us away from the true freedom found in Christ. Instead, our citizenship is in heaven, and with that comes both privilege and responsibility. We are called to set our minds on things above, to love God and neighbor, to be a blueprint for others, and to live as citizens of heaven even as we serve faithfully on earth.

Our nation’s founders, despite their flaws, recognized their dependence on God’s grace. We, too, are called to live out our God-given potential, not in self-sufficiency, but in humble reliance on Christ. In Him, we find the peace that surpasses understanding, the joy that endures suffering, and the freedom to become who God created us to be.

Key Takeaways

- True Happiness Is Rooted in Dependence on Christ, Not Circumstances
The pursuit of happiness, as originally intended, is not about chasing emotional highs or personal pleasure. Instead, it is about a steady, enduring joy that comes from being rooted in Christ, regardless of our circumstances. Paul’s contentment in prison shows that authentic happiness is found only in dependence on Jesus, not in independence from Him. [12:06]

- Beware of Gospel Distortions: “Gospel Plus” and “Gospel Minus”
Adding requirements to the gospel (“gospel plus”) or treating grace as a license to sin (“gospel minus”) both lead us away from the freedom Christ offers. True salvation is found in Christ alone, not in our works or in careless living. We are called to know Christ personally and intimately, not just to perform religious duties or take His grace for granted. [15:50]

- Our Citizenship Is in Heaven, and That Shapes Our Identity and Mission
While it is good to be grateful for earthly citizenship, our primary allegiance is to the kingdom of God. Our citizenship in heaven is a possession given through Christ’s blood, and it comes with both privilege and responsibility. We are called to reflect the values of our heavenly home, living as ambassadors and colonists on mission for our King. [24:01]

- The Company We Keep and the Voices We Listen To Shape Our Pursuit of God
The influences in our lives—friends, media, mentors—either draw us closer to Christ or pull us away. We must be vigilant about who and what shapes our thinking, our attitudes, and our children’s hearts. Setting our minds on things above requires intentionality in our relationships and daily choices. [19:37]

- Christian Freedom Is Found in Surrender, Not Self-Sufficiency
The paradox of the Christian life is that true freedom and flourishing come not from rugged individualism, but from abiding in Christ. As branches depend on the vine, so we must depend on Jesus for fruitfulness, peace, and purpose. In Him, we are empowered to love God, serve others, and fulfill our God-given mission. [26:01]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:34] - The Declaration of Independence and Its Christian Roots
[02:57] - Independence, Freedom, and Their True Purpose
[05:47] - The Modern Misunderstanding of Happiness
[07:01] - The Biblical and Philosophical Meaning of Happiness
[07:56] - Human Flourishing and the Pursuit of God-Given Potential
[09:22] - Paul, Philippi, and the Pride of Citizenship
[11:05] - Joy and Contentment in All Circumstances
[12:06] - The Secret of Contentment: Dependence on Christ
[13:42] - Two Responses to Freedom: Independence vs. Dependence
[15:50] - Gospel Plus, Gospel Minus, and the Danger of Distortion
[17:44] - The Pursuit of Virtue and the Influence of Culture
[19:37] - The Company We Keep and Its Impact
[20:19] - Our True Citizenship and Its Responsibilities
[24:01] - The Privilege and Responsibility of Belonging to Heaven
[26:01] - Abiding in Christ: The Source of True Freedom
[27:08] - The Founders’ Dependence on God
[29:02] - Living as Citizens of Heaven on Earth
[30:36] - Prayer, Leadership, and the Call to Follow Christ
[31:34] - Pressing On Toward the Goal in Christ

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

Philippians 3:17–21 (ESV)
17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.
18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.
19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.
20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,
21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Philippians 4:11–13 (ESV)
11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

John 15:5 (ESV)
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Philippians 3:19–20, what is the difference between those who set their minds on earthly things and those whose citizenship is in heaven?
2. In Philippians 4:11–13, what does Paul say he has learned about contentment, and what is the source of his strength?
3. How does Jesus describe the relationship between himself and his followers in John 15:5?
4. The sermon mentioned that Paul uses the words “joy” and “happiness” about 16 times in Philippians. What is the context for Paul’s joy, and where is he writing from? ([11:05])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Paul warn against both “gospel plus” (adding requirements to Christ’s work) and “gospel minus” (using grace as a license to sin)? How do these distortions affect our experience of freedom in Christ? ([15:50])
2. The sermon says that true happiness is not about chasing emotional highs but about a steady, enduring joy rooted in Christ. How does Paul’s situation in prison help us understand this kind of happiness? ([12:06])
3. What does it mean that “our citizenship is in heaven,” and how should that shape the way we live on earth? ([24:01])
4. The sermon talks about the company we keep and the voices we listen to. Why does Paul (and the pastor) emphasize the importance of our influences? ([19:37])

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenges us to examine who and what is shaping our thinking and attitudes. What are some specific influences (friends, media, podcasts, etc.) in your life right now? Are they drawing you closer to Christ or pulling you away? What is one change you could make this week? ([19:37])
2. Paul says he has learned to be content in all circumstances through Christ. Think about a recent situation where you felt discontent or anxious. How might dependence on Christ change your response next time? ([12:06])
3. The sermon warns against both adding to the gospel and taking away from it. Are there ways you’ve been tempted to add extra requirements to your faith, or to take God’s grace for granted? How can you guard against these distortions? ([15:50])
4. The idea of “citizenship in heaven” comes with both privilege and responsibility. What is one practical way you can reflect the values of your heavenly citizenship in your workplace, neighborhood, or family this week? ([24:01])
5. The pastor said, “Christian freedom is found in surrender, not self-sufficiency.” Is there an area of your life where you are trying to be self-sufficient instead of depending on Christ? What would it look like to surrender that area to Him? ([26:01])
6. The sermon mentioned that our founders, despite their flaws, recognized their dependence on God’s grace. In what ways do you need to move from self-sufficiency to humble reliance on Christ in your daily life? ([27:08])
7. Paul encourages believers to be a “blueprint” for others. Who is someone in your life who might be watching your example? How can you intentionally point them toward Christ this week? ([30:36])

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Devotional

Day 1: Authentic Happiness Is Found Only in Dependence on Christ

True happiness is not rooted in fleeting emotions or the pursuit of pleasure, but in a steady, abiding joy that comes from a life fully dependent on Christ Jesus. Paul, writing from prison, declares that he has learned to be content in every circumstance—whether in abundance or in need—because his strength and happiness are found in Christ alone. This dependence on Jesus frees us from the tyranny of sin and the shifting standards of the world, anchoring our joy in something unshakeable. When we rest in Christ, we experience a deep, sustaining peace that transcends our circumstances and leads to true human flourishing. [12:06]

Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV)
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Reflection: In what area of your life are you seeking happiness apart from Christ, and how can you intentionally shift your dependence to Him today?


Day 2: The Danger of Total Independence—Enslavement to Sin

When we declare ourselves totally independent—apart from God or anyone else—we risk becoming enslaved to our own desires, appetites, and the fleeting pleasures of this world. Paul warns that those who set their minds on earthly things, whose “god is their belly,” ultimately find destruction, not freedom. This mindset leads to a life focused on insignificant pursuits and emotional highs, rather than the lasting joy and virtue found in Christ. True liberty is not the absence of restraint, but the ability to choose what is good and godly, which is only possible through Christ. [16:34]

Philippians 3:18-19 (ESV)
For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.

Reflection: What is one earthly desire or habit that has become a “god” in your life, and what step can you take today to surrender it to Christ?


Day 3: Our True Citizenship Is in Heaven

As followers of Jesus, our primary citizenship is not of any earthly nation but of heaven itself. This heavenly citizenship is a gift, secured by Christ’s sacrifice, and it comes with both privileges and responsibilities. We are called to live as representatives of God’s kingdom, keeping our minds set on things above and awaiting our Savior, Jesus Christ, who will transform us to be like Him. This perspective shapes how we engage with the world, reminding us that our ultimate allegiance and hope are found in Christ, not in any earthly system or status. [24:01]

Philippians 3:20-21 (ESV)
But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Reflection: How does remembering your citizenship in heaven change the way you approach your daily responsibilities and relationships this week?


Day 4: The Responsibility of Bearing Fruit as Citizens of Heaven

Being citizens of heaven means we are called to bear fruit by loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Jesus teaches that apart from Him, we can do nothing, but abiding in Him leads to a life that overflows with love, unity, and a heart for making disciples. Our dependence on Christ empowers us to fulfill our God-given mission, not just for our own flourishing, but for the good of others and the advancement of God’s kingdom. [26:01]

John 15:5 (ESV)
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Reflection: Who is one person you can intentionally love or serve today as an expression of your citizenship in heaven?


Day 5: Living Out Our Calling as Godly Citizens on Earth

God calls us to be exemplary citizens in our earthly communities, reflecting our heavenly citizenship by honoring others, praying for our leaders, and pursuing peace and godliness. We are to imitate Christ, pressing on toward the goal of knowing Him more deeply and sharing His love with those around us. Even in times of uncertainty or difficulty, we can rejoice and rest in the peace of God, trusting that He holds us securely in His hands. [31:34]

1 Peter 2:13-17 (ESV)
Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can honor or pray for someone in authority over you this week, even if you disagree with them?

Quotes

But what were they talking about independence and freedom from what freedom to what obviously it's king george but it's really they were talking about tyranny they were talking about leaders who have gone astride and all through the old testament god is talking is trying to teach his kings how to be good kings and leaders and our founding fathers saw that king george was not doing that for americans we we pride ourselves on being able to live free and worship but what is the what is the purpose of our independence to what are we independent to is it just to be independent to ourself or is it to be independence to something else so i want you to think through that today with me and i want to focus in on this life liberty and pursuit of happiness peace and we're going to compare it to what paul is talking about in that verse we just read [00:03:27] (51 seconds)  #FreedomFromTyrannyToPurpose Edit Clip

The idea of pursuit of happiness is for us to live within that potential.and to understand that. And we go through struggles. We go through troubles. And sometimes we may not be happy, but we are living in the joy and the happiness that that guarantees. [00:08:52] (19 seconds)  #JoyInPotentialStruggles Edit Clip

For Paul is expressing this joy to the Philippians, not only for what they have done for him, but for the freedom and liberty he's found in Christ, because he knows this freedom and liberty. He is now liberated from the pain of sin in his life. Not that he won't experience it, but Christ carries it for him. [00:13:21] (21 seconds)  #FreedomThroughChrist Edit Clip

The results are the same for all of them, this destiny apart from God, that emotional happiness becomes their God, they will celebrate false gods, and their total focus will be on the insignificant in their lives.Think about our culture right now, it's focused on happiness, they're focused on so many things, they're insignificant. [00:16:34] (24 seconds)  #FalseGodsOfHappiness Edit Clip

The pursuit of happiness, the pursuit of happiness should be about virtue, human flourishing, goodness, focusing our mind on what Christ has done for us. [00:17:51] (15 seconds)  #VirtueInHappinessPursuit Edit Clip

Paul is saying to these guys in Philippi, the Philippians in Philippi, there we go, got it. And, he's saying the same thing to us today. we'll be right back. we'll be right back.let's not be so proud of our 4th of July citizenship. It's great to be proud American that we forget about to put our mind on the things above, because we have a responsibility to heaven. [00:23:40] (21 seconds)  #MindsetAboveEarthlyPride Edit Clip

Our citizenship belongs to heaven through the blood of Christ.As you give your life to him, our citizenship is the beginning of your salvation. We are in Christ, in heaven, and with that becomes the awesome privilege to be called a son or daughter of God. And that's where our human flourishing, our happiness is founded. [00:24:37] (25 seconds)  #HeavenlyCitizenship Edit Clip

Paul starts this paragraph, and he says, brothers, verse 17, join in imitating me and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have given us. We're citizens of heaven.He said, be a blueprint, Christians, for everybody who sees you. Walk with Christ. [00:30:57] (32 seconds)  #ImitateChristBlueprint Edit Clip

No matter what you're going through the highs and the low paul says i know how to be brought low i don't know how to be brought high god says i got you i got you to cradle my hand you may not understand everything that's going on in your life but i got you if you're in christ and in that there is freedom and in that there is independence remember we're always dependent upon something so let's make it on christ jesus our lord and let's do that today [00:32:41] (29 seconds)  #CradledInChristFreedom Edit Clip