In this sermon celebrating the one-year anniversary of Oak Hollow Church of Christ, Garrett Bookout reflects on the congregation's journey from its initial meeting in July 2025 to its current growth. Drawing from Philippians 1:3–11, the message highlights the church's role as a partner in God's ongoing work, emphasizing spiritual growth through abounding love, discernment, purity, and the practical "fruit of righteousness" in serving others.

The sermon begins with reflection and thanksgiving for the growth and active service of Oak Hollow Church of Christ over its first year. Turning to the text in Philippians 1:3–11, the speaker explains that church work is ultimately God's initiative, and believers are invited by grace to be partners in His mission. Rather than measuring success solely by numbers, true church growth requires love abounding with knowledge and discernment, leading to lives of purity and practical, tangible acts of service—the fruit of righteousness—to the praise and glory of God.

1. Introduction and One-Year Reflections
* Expressing gratitude for the congregation and looking forward to the future.
* Historical overview: First gathering on July 20, 2025, with 48 in attendance, growing to around 88 members today.
* Acknowledgment of host families who opened their homes prior to meeting at Rolling Hills.
* Appreciation for transparent leadership among elders, active service among deacons, and community outreach projects (food drives, well pantry, lantern visits, youth camps).

2. Partnering in God's Work (Philippians 1:3–8)
* God as the Initiator: Recognizing that God began the good work, making the church about His mission rather than personal preferences or human efforts.
* Gospel Partnership: Understanding what it means to be partners in the gospel and take part in God's broader plan for the world.
* Partakers of Grace: Experiencing the unmerited favor of being invited into God's work alongside fellow believers.

3. Growing in Love, Knowledge, and Discernment (Philippians 1:9–10a)
* Abounding Love: True spiritual growth focuses on love increasing more and more.
* Guided by Knowledge: Love requires biblical knowledge and discernment to understand what is truly good and effective.
* Approving What is Excellent: Using discernment to pursue what is right and live with wisdom.

4. Living Pure and Blameless Lives (Philippians 1:10b)
* Striving for Purity: Desiring to grow in holiness and draw families closer together.
* Overcoming Sin Together: Creating a humble, supportive community where sin is repented of and dealt with, rather than ignored or met with harshness.

5. Bearing the Fruit of Righteousness (Philippians 1:11)
* Righteousness in Action: Righteousness is meant to produce tangible fruit that satisfies and helps others.
* Practical Examples: Providing comfort to the discouraged, food to the hungry, clothing, and encouragement.
* Following Jesus' Example: Abiding in Christ to bring forth real, tasteable evidence of God's love to the surrounding world.

6. Conclusion and Invitation
* Summary of goals: Love growing, wisdom deepening, lives remaining pure, and fruit abounding through Jesus Christ.
* Invitation extended for prayer, bible study, or baptism.