The Epistle To The Philippians- Chapter Four
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To notice Paul's tactfulness in dealing with Euodia and Syntyche
2) To glean Paul's secrets for joy, peace, contentment, and strength
3) To consider how Paul viewed the Philippians' generosity towards him
SUMMARY
This final chapter begins with a series of exhortations to unity, joy, and peace. With great affection, Paul pleads with his beloved Philippians to stand fast in the Lord (1). With great diplomacy and a call for assistance from others, he implores Euodia and Syntyche to be of one mind in the Lord (3-4). He then follows with a call for them to rejoice always in the Lord, letting their gentleness be known to all, and through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving to allow the peace of God remove any anxiety (5-7). His final exhortations include a call to meditate on things of virtue and worthy of praise, and to imitate his example in order to ensure that God will be with them (8-9).
At last he comes to the matter which occasioned this letter, expressing joy and gratitude for the gift they had sent to him by way of Epaphroditus. As they had done before on several occasions, so now they had provided for his necessities. He is thankful, even though he was quite content, for he knows that this gift really abounds to their account, serving as a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is well pleasing to God(10-19).
His closing remarks include praise to God, and greetings from those with him, especially members of Caesar's household. As was his custom, he closes with a final prayer that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with them all (20-23).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATIONS TO UNITY, JOY, AND PEACE (1-9)
A. AN APPEAL TO EUODIA AND SYNTYCHE (1-3)
1. Prefaced with an exhortation to stand fast in the Lord (1)
2. A plea for Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord (2)
3. A request for assistance in helping these women (3)
B. EXHORTATIONS TO REJOICE AND TO BE AT PEACE (4-9)
1. Rejoice in the Lord always, letting your gentleness be known to all (4-5)
2. Through prayer, allow the peace of God to guard your hearts from anxiety (6-7)
3. Meditate upon things worthy of virtue and praise, and follow Paul's example (8-9)
II. THANKSGIVING FOR THEIR GENEROSITY (10-23)
A. THEIR GIFT A SOURCE OF JOY TO PAUL (10-14)
1. Paul rejoiced when they were able to care for him again (10)
2. Not that he really had need (11-13)
a. For he had learned contentment (11-12)
b. For he had the strength of Christ (13)
3. But they have done well to share in his distress (14)
B. THEIR GIFT A SOURCE OF BLESSING FOR THEMSELVES (15-19)
1. A brief history of their giving to Paul (15-16)
2. Their giving abounds to their own account, viewed as an acceptable sacrifice to God(17-18)
3. God will supply all their needs according to His riches (19)
C. CONCLUDING REMARKS (20-23)
1. Praise to God (20)
2. Greetings from those with Paul, especially those of Caesar's household (21-22)
3. Final benediction of grace from the Lord Jesus Christ (23)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortations to unity, joy, and peace (1-9)
- Thanksgiving for their generosity (10-23)
2) How does Paul describe his brethren as he exhorts them to stand fast in the Lord? (1)
- My beloved and longed-for brethren
- My joy and crown
3) What two women does Paul implore to be of the same mind in the Lord? (2)
- Euodia and Syntyche
4) What is said about these two women? (3)
- They labored with Paul in the gospel
- Their names were in the Book of Life
5) In what are we to rejoice always? (4)
- In the Lord
6) Why are we to let our gentleness (or moderation) be known to all men? (5)
- The Lord is at hand
7) What is the antidote for anxiety? (6)
- Letting our requests be made known to God with an attitude of thanksgiving
8) What will the peace of God do in response to such thankful prayer? (7)
- Guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus
9) Upon what should one meditate? (8)
- Whatever things are true
- Whatever things are noble
- Whatever things are just
- Whatever things are pure
- Whatever things are lovely
- Whatever things are of good report
- Anything of virtue, anything that is praiseworthy
10) How can one ensure that the God of peace will be them? (9)
- Do the things learned, received, heard, and seen in Paul
11) What had served as a source of great joy for Paul? (10)
- The Philippians' care for him flourishing again
12) What had Paul learned? (11-12)
- To be content in whatever state he found himself
13) How was Paul able to do all things? (13)
- Through Christ who strengthens him
14) When had the church at Philippi helped Paul before? (15-16)
- When he departed from Macedonia
- On at least two occasions when he was at Thessalonica
15) Why was Paul really pleased with their gift? (17)
- He knew that it added to their account
16) How did Paul view the gift they had sent by way of Epaphroditus? (18)
- A sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God
17) Who would provide help for the Philippians? (19)
- God, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus
18) Who in particular sent greetings to the Philippians by way of Paul? (22)
- Those of Caesar's household
19) What was Paul's final prayer for his beloved Philippians? (23)
- The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Two Ways To Walk- Philippians 3:17-21
Two Ways To Walk- Philippians 3:17-21
INTRODUCTION
1. As we continue our examination of Paul’s “epistle of joy”, we now find him discussing two different ways to walk in this life...
a. The walk of one who is “a citizen of heaven”
b. The walk of one who is “an enemy of the cross of Christ”
2. Hopefully, there should be no question as to which way we are to walk; but to better understand why, we will look closely at some reasons Paul gives in this passage
[First, we notice...]
I. AN ADMONITION TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (17)
A. “JOIN IN FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE...”
1. Paul frequently encouraged others to follow his example - cf. Ph 4:9; 1 Co 4:16; 11:1
2. Some brethren evidently took him up on it - e.g., 1 Th 1:6-9
3. In what way were people to imitate Paul?
a. To the degree he tried to imitate Christ - 1 Co 11:1
b. Perhaps also in his devotion to Jesus Christ - cf. Ph 3:7-16
B. “NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, AS YOU HAVE US FOR A PATTERN...”
1. Just as there were some in Thessalonica who imitated Paul (1 Th 1:6-9), so there were those at Philippi who did the same, and were thus worthy of emulation
2. Noticing the examples of others can be very beneficial - cf. Psa 37:37
3. Especially when we consider the outcome of their conduct - cf. He 13:7
C. WE SHOULD NOT ONLY BE GOOD IMITATORS, BUT GOOD EXAMPLES
OURSELVES...!
1. This is especially true of those who teach and preach God’s Word - 1 Ti 4:12; Ti 2:7-8
2. Which includes those who serve as elders - He 13:7; 1 Pe 5:1-3
[The reasons for noting those who are worthy of emulation is given later in this passage. But first there is...]
II. A WARNING CONCERNING THOSE WHO WALK AS “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”
(18-19)
A. “OF WHOM I HAVE TOLD YOU OFTEN...”
1. Paul found repetition to be a valuable tool - cf. Ga 1:8,9; 5:21; Ph 3:1
2. Also, that it was necessary to be negative at times - cf. Ph 3:2
B. “AND NOW TELL YOU EVEN WEEPING...”
1. Negative preaching, when necessary, should not be done without compassion - e.g., 2 Co 2:4
2. Even here, Paul is setting the right example...
a. To love our enemies
b. Even those who are “enemies of the cross”!
C. WHO ARE THESE “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”...?
1. We know they are many people
a. “For many walk” - cf. Mt 7:13-14
b. So not just a few
2. We know their end
a. “whose end is destruction” - cf. 2 Th 1:7-9
b. Have we seriously considered the outcome of their conduct?
3. We know who is their God
a. “whose god is their belly”
b. I.e., those who are set on satisfying only their fleshly appetites
4. We know wherein is their glory
a. “whose glory is in their shame”
b. They take pride in things that are actually shameful
5. We know upon what they set their minds
a. “who set their mind on earthly things”
b. Contrast this with where Christians are to set their minds - Ph 4:8; Co 3:1-2
[Where is our “mindset”? How we answer may determine whether or not WE are “enemies of the cross of Christ”! As a motivation not to be “enemies of the cross”, we notice Paul now shares a few...]
III. REASONS TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (20-21)
A. “FOR OUR CITIZENSHIP IS IN HEAVEN...”
1. Our true loyalty is to that above, not that on earth!
2. It is there where our “inheritance” is reserved - 1 Pe 1:3-4
3. Therefore, we have special responsibilities - cf. 1 Pe 2:9-12
B. “WE EAGERLY WAIT FOR THE SAVIOR...WHO WILL TRANSFORM OUR
LOWLY BODY...”
1. Though now in heaven, our Savior is coming again one day! - Ac 1:9-11
2. When He does, what glory there will be for those who are “citizens of heaven”!
a. He will “transform our lowly body”!
b. It will be “conformed to His glorious body”
3. This He will do by the same power by which He subdues all things to Himself - cf. Mt 28: 18; 1 Pe 3:22
CONCLUSION
1. Are not these good reasons to walk like Paul?
2. Brethren, how are we walking in this life?
a. As “citizens of heaven”?
b. Or “enemies of the cross of Christ”?
3. The answer depends upon where we have set our MINDS:
a. If on EARTHLY things...we are “enemies of the cross of Christ”!
1) We make our bellies to be our god
2) We glory in that which is shameful
3) Our end will be destruction
b. But if on HEAVENLY things...we are “citizens of heaven”!
1) We eagerly await Christ’s coming
2) We eagerly await our transformation
4. Have you become...
a. A “citizen of heaven”? If not, why not become one today? - Jn 3:5
b. An “enemy of the cross”? If so, why not “defect” today? - 1 Pe 4:1-3
INTRODUCTION
1. As we continue our examination of Paul’s “epistle of joy”, we now find him discussing two different ways to walk in this life...
a. The walk of one who is “a citizen of heaven”
b. The walk of one who is “an enemy of the cross of Christ”
2. Hopefully, there should be no question as to which way we are to walk; but to better understand why, we will look closely at some reasons Paul gives in this passage
[First, we notice...]
I. AN ADMONITION TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (17)
A. “JOIN IN FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE...”
1. Paul frequently encouraged others to follow his example - cf. Ph 4:9; 1 Co 4:16; 11:1
2. Some brethren evidently took him up on it - e.g., 1 Th 1:6-9
3. In what way were people to imitate Paul?
a. To the degree he tried to imitate Christ - 1 Co 11:1
b. Perhaps also in his devotion to Jesus Christ - cf. Ph 3:7-16
B. “NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, AS YOU HAVE US FOR A PATTERN...”
1. Just as there were some in Thessalonica who imitated Paul (1 Th 1:6-9), so there were those at Philippi who did the same, and were thus worthy of emulation
2. Noticing the examples of others can be very beneficial - cf. Psa 37:37
3. Especially when we consider the outcome of their conduct - cf. He 13:7
C. WE SHOULD NOT ONLY BE GOOD IMITATORS, BUT GOOD EXAMPLES
OURSELVES...!
1. This is especially true of those who teach and preach God’s Word - 1 Ti 4:12; Ti 2:7-8
2. Which includes those who serve as elders - He 13:7; 1 Pe 5:1-3
[The reasons for noting those who are worthy of emulation is given later in this passage. But first there is...]
II. A WARNING CONCERNING THOSE WHO WALK AS “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”
(18-19)
A. “OF WHOM I HAVE TOLD YOU OFTEN...”
1. Paul found repetition to be a valuable tool - cf. Ga 1:8,9; 5:21; Ph 3:1
2. Also, that it was necessary to be negative at times - cf. Ph 3:2
B. “AND NOW TELL YOU EVEN WEEPING...”
1. Negative preaching, when necessary, should not be done without compassion - e.g., 2 Co 2:4
2. Even here, Paul is setting the right example...
a. To love our enemies
b. Even those who are “enemies of the cross”!
C. WHO ARE THESE “ENEMIES OF THE CROSS”...?
1. We know they are many people
a. “For many walk” - cf. Mt 7:13-14
b. So not just a few
2. We know their end
a. “whose end is destruction” - cf. 2 Th 1:7-9
b. Have we seriously considered the outcome of their conduct?
3. We know who is their God
a. “whose god is their belly”
b. I.e., those who are set on satisfying only their fleshly appetites
4. We know wherein is their glory
a. “whose glory is in their shame”
b. They take pride in things that are actually shameful
5. We know upon what they set their minds
a. “who set their mind on earthly things”
b. Contrast this with where Christians are to set their minds - Ph 4:8; Co 3:1-2
[Where is our “mindset”? How we answer may determine whether or not WE are “enemies of the cross of Christ”! As a motivation not to be “enemies of the cross”, we notice Paul now shares a few...]
III. REASONS TO WALK LIKE PAUL AND OTHERS (20-21)
A. “FOR OUR CITIZENSHIP IS IN HEAVEN...”
1. Our true loyalty is to that above, not that on earth!
2. It is there where our “inheritance” is reserved - 1 Pe 1:3-4
3. Therefore, we have special responsibilities - cf. 1 Pe 2:9-12
B. “WE EAGERLY WAIT FOR THE SAVIOR...WHO WILL TRANSFORM OUR
LOWLY BODY...”
1. Though now in heaven, our Savior is coming again one day! - Ac 1:9-11
2. When He does, what glory there will be for those who are “citizens of heaven”!
a. He will “transform our lowly body”!
b. It will be “conformed to His glorious body”
3. This He will do by the same power by which He subdues all things to Himself - cf. Mt 28: 18; 1 Pe 3:22
CONCLUSION
1. Are not these good reasons to walk like Paul?
2. Brethren, how are we walking in this life?
a. As “citizens of heaven”?
b. Or “enemies of the cross of Christ”?
3. The answer depends upon where we have set our MINDS:
a. If on EARTHLY things...we are “enemies of the cross of Christ”!
1) We make our bellies to be our god
2) We glory in that which is shameful
3) Our end will be destruction
b. But if on HEAVENLY things...we are “citizens of heaven”!
1) We eagerly await Christ’s coming
2) We eagerly await our transformation
4. Have you become...
a. A “citizen of heaven”? If not, why not become one today? - Jn 3:5
b. An “enemy of the cross”? If so, why not “defect” today? - 1 Pe 4:1-3
Friday, September 24, 2010
4.6. Anger and Bitterness
4.6. Anger and Bitterness
We are the sum of what we experienced in life and our reactions to these experiences. To the extent we are offended, become angry and irritated, we are limited to that extent in our spiritual walk.
• ( Rom. 12:10-11 ; Gal. 6:1 ) Our job is to restore, not to condemn or
criticize, so that we can establish God's Kingdom of peace on earth by
walking free of irritations, of criticism, of faultfinding, of blame shifting.
This is accomplished by purity of heart, love and prayers for each other,
consciousness of being in the spirit by faith ( Gal. 5:22-23 ).
• ( Eph. 4:31-32 ; Gal. 6:14 ) By an act of our will, we put-off, and by an
act of the will we put-on being a blessing. No longer controlled by life's
irritations, but we use these irritations as opportunities to reveal Christ
within to touch the other person(s).
• ( Matt. 12:34-35 ) No one or thing is the cause of your anger. The
offense reveals the spirit that is in you. Sinful anger reveals that you are
living to please self.
• ( Eph. 2:1-6 ) Desires of the flesh and mind are inhabited by envy,
jealousy, greed, and pride: the sources of anger. The enemy's job is to
keep you occupied and earthbound by these selfish feelings. This will keep
you from realizing the fullness of who and what you are in Christ Jesus.
• ( Rom. 5:3-5 ) Anger and bitterness are two noticeable signs of being
self-focused, and not trusting God's sovereignty in your life. Don't need to
protect your 'rights', the defense of self. The very things that upset you,
God will use to perfect and to motivate you to work through these
tribulations, becoming a blessing instead of a curse.
• ( 2 Pet. 1:4 ) Being a partaker of the divine nature, working through the
experiences of life God's way, we begin to realize that we are growing in
Christ, and truly being freed from the corruption of this world.
• ( Matt. 5:16 ; Eph. 4:1-3 ) Anger and bitterness are formidable
obstacles to biblical love, harmonious relationships, and maturity in Christ.
Failing to put off anger grieves the Holy Spirit and gives Satan a place in
your life obscuring your witness to others, and disrupting unity in the
body of Christ. Dealing biblically with anger and bitterness requires
wholehearted obedience to God's word in every circumstance and with
every person, even if your feelings dictate otherwise.
• ( 1 Pet. 1:13-16 ; Eph. 2:10 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) Anger and bitterness
have no place in thought. We are to think dispassionately. The world lives
by experiences, by reason, by feelings, but we are to live by faith. We are
to live above experiences and reason. In order to think with security, we
must think about thinking. A thinking person realizes who and what he is
in Christ. He is above feelings and lives by his will based on the word of
God. He fights a good fight of faith, not feelings, and he pursues
excellencies being daily conformed to the image of Christ.
• ( Gen. 4:7 ; Prov. 24:10 ; Prov. 21:22 ) You are responsible for
controlling your spirit. Since God's word commands you to put away anger
and bitterness, then it is possible to do so.
• ( Luke 9:23 ; Gal. 5:16-17 ) Because of the ever-present temptation to
live for self rather than to live for God, you must obey God's word, pray
habitually, constantly depend on God's Spirit.
• ( Col. 1:10 ) You are not to allow anger to get the upper hand and gain
control of your mind or conduct, since Satan uses these opportunities to
affect your life. You must live in a manner to please the Lord no matter
how you feel.
• ( James 1:19-20 ) Quick to listen means to be quick to ask questions, to
get facts, to give time for the Holy Spirit to control you, then you can act
in a biblical manner.
Think Biblically
( Phil. 4:8 ; Ps. 23:1-6 ) We are to think biblically that God has promised to care for us in any situation, no matter how unsettling it may seem. Discipline your mind to honor and glorify God, to please Him in all situations. "Think" kind and tender thoughts toward the very person with whom you are or have been irritated. Focus your thoughts on solving the current problem ( James 1:5 ; James 3:13-18 ).
Speak Biblically
( Ps. 51:1-4 ; James 5:16 ; 1 John 1:9 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) We are to speak biblically,
confess sins to the Lord and to those whom you have failed to love in a biblical manner. Don't talk about your past accomplishments, sorrows or defeats, hurts and pains but talk about the goodness of God in your life. Do not slander, gossip or use words that do not edify ( Prov. 10:18 ; Eph. 4:29 ).
Act Biblically
( Col. 3:13 ; James 1:21 ) Forgive others readily as God has forgiven you. Meditate on Scriptures related to overcoming anger and bitterness to remove the root of the foul spirit within.
( Ps. 1:1 ) Identify all danger signals, such as situations, places and personal contacts that bring temptation.
( Matt. 5:23-24 ) Make amends for wrongdoing and seek reconciliation.
( 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) We are called to be a blessing especially to those who revile us.
We are the sum of what we experienced in life and our reactions to these experiences. To the extent we are offended, become angry and irritated, we are limited to that extent in our spiritual walk.
• ( Rom. 12:10-11 ; Gal. 6:1 ) Our job is to restore, not to condemn or
criticize, so that we can establish God's Kingdom of peace on earth by
walking free of irritations, of criticism, of faultfinding, of blame shifting.
This is accomplished by purity of heart, love and prayers for each other,
consciousness of being in the spirit by faith ( Gal. 5:22-23 ).
• ( Eph. 4:31-32 ; Gal. 6:14 ) By an act of our will, we put-off, and by an
act of the will we put-on being a blessing. No longer controlled by life's
irritations, but we use these irritations as opportunities to reveal Christ
within to touch the other person(s).
• ( Matt. 12:34-35 ) No one or thing is the cause of your anger. The
offense reveals the spirit that is in you. Sinful anger reveals that you are
living to please self.
• ( Eph. 2:1-6 ) Desires of the flesh and mind are inhabited by envy,
jealousy, greed, and pride: the sources of anger. The enemy's job is to
keep you occupied and earthbound by these selfish feelings. This will keep
you from realizing the fullness of who and what you are in Christ Jesus.
• ( Rom. 5:3-5 ) Anger and bitterness are two noticeable signs of being
self-focused, and not trusting God's sovereignty in your life. Don't need to
protect your 'rights', the defense of self. The very things that upset you,
God will use to perfect and to motivate you to work through these
tribulations, becoming a blessing instead of a curse.
• ( 2 Pet. 1:4 ) Being a partaker of the divine nature, working through the
experiences of life God's way, we begin to realize that we are growing in
Christ, and truly being freed from the corruption of this world.
• ( Matt. 5:16 ; Eph. 4:1-3 ) Anger and bitterness are formidable
obstacles to biblical love, harmonious relationships, and maturity in Christ.
Failing to put off anger grieves the Holy Spirit and gives Satan a place in
your life obscuring your witness to others, and disrupting unity in the
body of Christ. Dealing biblically with anger and bitterness requires
wholehearted obedience to God's word in every circumstance and with
every person, even if your feelings dictate otherwise.
• ( 1 Pet. 1:13-16 ; Eph. 2:10 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) Anger and bitterness
have no place in thought. We are to think dispassionately. The world lives
by experiences, by reason, by feelings, but we are to live by faith. We are
to live above experiences and reason. In order to think with security, we
must think about thinking. A thinking person realizes who and what he is
in Christ. He is above feelings and lives by his will based on the word of
God. He fights a good fight of faith, not feelings, and he pursues
excellencies being daily conformed to the image of Christ.
• ( Gen. 4:7 ; Prov. 24:10 ; Prov. 21:22 ) You are responsible for
controlling your spirit. Since God's word commands you to put away anger
and bitterness, then it is possible to do so.
• ( Luke 9:23 ; Gal. 5:16-17 ) Because of the ever-present temptation to
live for self rather than to live for God, you must obey God's word, pray
habitually, constantly depend on God's Spirit.
• ( Col. 1:10 ) You are not to allow anger to get the upper hand and gain
control of your mind or conduct, since Satan uses these opportunities to
affect your life. You must live in a manner to please the Lord no matter
how you feel.
• ( James 1:19-20 ) Quick to listen means to be quick to ask questions, to
get facts, to give time for the Holy Spirit to control you, then you can act
in a biblical manner.
Think Biblically
( Phil. 4:8 ; Ps. 23:1-6 ) We are to think biblically that God has promised to care for us in any situation, no matter how unsettling it may seem. Discipline your mind to honor and glorify God, to please Him in all situations. "Think" kind and tender thoughts toward the very person with whom you are or have been irritated. Focus your thoughts on solving the current problem ( James 1:5 ; James 3:13-18 ).
Speak Biblically
( Ps. 51:1-4 ; James 5:16 ; 1 John 1:9 ; Phil. 3:13-14 ) We are to speak biblically,
confess sins to the Lord and to those whom you have failed to love in a biblical manner. Don't talk about your past accomplishments, sorrows or defeats, hurts and pains but talk about the goodness of God in your life. Do not slander, gossip or use words that do not edify ( Prov. 10:18 ; Eph. 4:29 ).
Act Biblically
( Col. 3:13 ; James 1:21 ) Forgive others readily as God has forgiven you. Meditate on Scriptures related to overcoming anger and bitterness to remove the root of the foul spirit within.
( Ps. 1:1 ) Identify all danger signals, such as situations, places and personal contacts that bring temptation.
( Matt. 5:23-24 ) Make amends for wrongdoing and seek reconciliation.
( 1 Pet. 3:8-9 ) We are called to be a blessing especially to those who revile us.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
4.5. Dealing with Self
4.5. Dealing with Self
Marriage Concept
( Gen. 2:7 ; Phil. 3:8 ) God formed man out of the dust of the ground. By God's breath,man received consciousness, a capacity to think, and an awareness of his environment and surroundings. Man's very being depends solely upon God. Man without God is nothing.
( Gen. 1:26-28 ) God created mankind, Adam and Eve, as one entity. Mankind is mated
to God and through the imaging process to be the revelators of God's love to the world. God blessed them, and endued them with power to be prosperous in all areas of living. All that was required was for man to voluntarily stay mated and submitted to God's authority - His word.
( Eph. 5:21 ) Both husband and wife, as separate entities, are subject to the Lord first,then to one another. By this act of obedience, recognizing God as Creator and Sustainer,they would merge into one flesh. The concept of marriage applies to the body of Christ as His bride being merged into one by obedience - individually and collectively.
Loss of Image
( Gen. 3:1-6 ) Man tested to choose to be dependent upon God or to be independent - to become their own gods. The desire that was put into them to please God, now turned to lust to please themselves. Becoming gods they looked to themselves for resources to handle life, to find within themselves wisdom, strength, and ability to understand and control life in all its manifestations. By this choice, as they changed from self-lovingothers to self-loving-self, fear became their constant companion.
Self Promotion
( Gen. 3:7-10 ) Reverential fear and awe of God and His magnificence changed to fear of punishment and a concern for the survival of the self. All man had to do was look to God,obey His word, and God would take care of everything else. Separated from God man has to look to himself for security, God no longer there to provide. Man now looks horizontally to find acceptance and approval by performing and impressing others how great he is, by controlling others, by seeking power over others: by wealth, by position. Man is always seeking to find the meaning of life within himself when the meaning of life can only be found by manifesting the glory of God in his behavior.
Remarriage
( Luke 9:23-24 ) By and through the Cross of Christ, we are enabled to resume the
original relationship with God before the fall. By the cross, we are freed from the selfloving-self and become the self-loving-others, expressing the glory of God in our behavior to others.
( Eph. 4:22-24 ) We are all conditioned by life's experiences. We are the sum of all that we encountered in life. Our culture, our environs, our circumstances in life have impacted our lives and has affected our reactions. Thus, our coping mechanisms are sensitized to cover and protect the self in competition with others. The answer to this worldly, fleshly self is to study our union with Jesus Christ, and this by the daily putting-off of the corrupted self and the putting-on of the new self by the renewing of the mind.
Battleground
( Gal. 5:16-26 ; Prov. 28:13 ; Jer. 17:9 ; Rom. 6:12-13 ) You will face constant
temptations to self centeredness that lead to thoughts, speech, and actions that are
devastating to the body of Christ and your own walk with the Lord. Those sins that
characterized your life apart from Christ must be confessed and repented of if you are to mature as a child of God.
( Eph. 1:3-14 ; Matt. 7:12 ) Man's problems is that he pays too much attention to
himself, not too little. We already know how we want others to treat us. Thus, we are
commanded to treat others the same way with the focus on the other and not self. God
has given to us all we need or want. There is nothing we should seek for ourselves but to exercise who and what we are in Christ Jesus.
Intimacy
( Rom. 8:14-17 ; 1 Cor. 1:26-31 ; Matt. 5:16 ) A proper view of self comes from an
understanding of who you are in Christ: that God is actively involved in your life, that He has chosen you to be a testimony of His power to the world, and that He gives you a purpose for living by conforming you to the image of His Son.
( Gen. 4:7 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 2 Cor. 4:7-10 ; 2 Cor. 4:16-17 ; Matt.
6:33 ) Your contentment in all circumstances of life is dependent on your obedient
responses to God in your thoughts, speech, and actions. By obeying the Lord in your
daily walk, this demonstrates the Lordship of God over your life. The sense of value, of worthiness, of self-esteem comes by first seeking His Kingdom and His righteousness.
( Rom. 6:3-4 ; Rom 6:13-14 ; Col. 3:5-11 ; 1 Pet. 2:11-12 ) Envy, jealousy,
covetousness, and greed reveal a self-focus that questions God's work and provision in your life. These sins must be put-off out of your commitment to live for Jesus Christ.
( 2 Tim. 3:2-7 ; 2 Pet. 2:1-3 ) In latter days, we will be lovers of self, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Being a hearer only, you will be deluded.
Bearing His Image
( Col. 1:10 ; 1 John 3:8 ; Phil. 2:12-13 ) Daily walking in Christ, committing our will to please God, being fruitful, increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened in His power, these changes in lifestyle give evidence that we are a child of God. As such, the potential of Christ resides within you always ready to be a blessing, destroying the works of the devil, and to reign in life through righteousness.
Marriage Concept
( Gen. 2:7 ; Phil. 3:8 ) God formed man out of the dust of the ground. By God's breath,man received consciousness, a capacity to think, and an awareness of his environment and surroundings. Man's very being depends solely upon God. Man without God is nothing.
( Gen. 1:26-28 ) God created mankind, Adam and Eve, as one entity. Mankind is mated
to God and through the imaging process to be the revelators of God's love to the world. God blessed them, and endued them with power to be prosperous in all areas of living. All that was required was for man to voluntarily stay mated and submitted to God's authority - His word.
( Eph. 5:21 ) Both husband and wife, as separate entities, are subject to the Lord first,then to one another. By this act of obedience, recognizing God as Creator and Sustainer,they would merge into one flesh. The concept of marriage applies to the body of Christ as His bride being merged into one by obedience - individually and collectively.
Loss of Image
( Gen. 3:1-6 ) Man tested to choose to be dependent upon God or to be independent - to become their own gods. The desire that was put into them to please God, now turned to lust to please themselves. Becoming gods they looked to themselves for resources to handle life, to find within themselves wisdom, strength, and ability to understand and control life in all its manifestations. By this choice, as they changed from self-lovingothers to self-loving-self, fear became their constant companion.
Self Promotion
( Gen. 3:7-10 ) Reverential fear and awe of God and His magnificence changed to fear of punishment and a concern for the survival of the self. All man had to do was look to God,obey His word, and God would take care of everything else. Separated from God man has to look to himself for security, God no longer there to provide. Man now looks horizontally to find acceptance and approval by performing and impressing others how great he is, by controlling others, by seeking power over others: by wealth, by position. Man is always seeking to find the meaning of life within himself when the meaning of life can only be found by manifesting the glory of God in his behavior.
Remarriage
( Luke 9:23-24 ) By and through the Cross of Christ, we are enabled to resume the
original relationship with God before the fall. By the cross, we are freed from the selfloving-self and become the self-loving-others, expressing the glory of God in our behavior to others.
( Eph. 4:22-24 ) We are all conditioned by life's experiences. We are the sum of all that we encountered in life. Our culture, our environs, our circumstances in life have impacted our lives and has affected our reactions. Thus, our coping mechanisms are sensitized to cover and protect the self in competition with others. The answer to this worldly, fleshly self is to study our union with Jesus Christ, and this by the daily putting-off of the corrupted self and the putting-on of the new self by the renewing of the mind.
Battleground
( Gal. 5:16-26 ; Prov. 28:13 ; Jer. 17:9 ; Rom. 6:12-13 ) You will face constant
temptations to self centeredness that lead to thoughts, speech, and actions that are
devastating to the body of Christ and your own walk with the Lord. Those sins that
characterized your life apart from Christ must be confessed and repented of if you are to mature as a child of God.
( Eph. 1:3-14 ; Matt. 7:12 ) Man's problems is that he pays too much attention to
himself, not too little. We already know how we want others to treat us. Thus, we are
commanded to treat others the same way with the focus on the other and not self. God
has given to us all we need or want. There is nothing we should seek for ourselves but to exercise who and what we are in Christ Jesus.
Intimacy
( Rom. 8:14-17 ; 1 Cor. 1:26-31 ; Matt. 5:16 ) A proper view of self comes from an
understanding of who you are in Christ: that God is actively involved in your life, that He has chosen you to be a testimony of His power to the world, and that He gives you a purpose for living by conforming you to the image of His Son.
( Gen. 4:7 ; John 14:21 ; John 15:10-11 ; 2 Cor. 4:7-10 ; 2 Cor. 4:16-17 ; Matt.
6:33 ) Your contentment in all circumstances of life is dependent on your obedient
responses to God in your thoughts, speech, and actions. By obeying the Lord in your
daily walk, this demonstrates the Lordship of God over your life. The sense of value, of worthiness, of self-esteem comes by first seeking His Kingdom and His righteousness.
( Rom. 6:3-4 ; Rom 6:13-14 ; Col. 3:5-11 ; 1 Pet. 2:11-12 ) Envy, jealousy,
covetousness, and greed reveal a self-focus that questions God's work and provision in your life. These sins must be put-off out of your commitment to live for Jesus Christ.
( 2 Tim. 3:2-7 ; 2 Pet. 2:1-3 ) In latter days, we will be lovers of self, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Being a hearer only, you will be deluded.
Bearing His Image
( Col. 1:10 ; 1 John 3:8 ; Phil. 2:12-13 ) Daily walking in Christ, committing our will to please God, being fruitful, increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened in His power, these changes in lifestyle give evidence that we are a child of God. As such, the potential of Christ resides within you always ready to be a blessing, destroying the works of the devil, and to reign in life through righteousness.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
The True Circumcision Of God - Philippians 3:1-16
The True Circumcision Of God - Philippians 3:1-16
INTRODUCTION
1. Throughout his ministry as an apostle of Jesus Christ, Paul had to contend with certain Jewish Christians...
a. Known today as Judaizers, they were false teachers who often followed Paul wherever he went
b. They would try to bind the act of circumcision and the Law of Moses itself upon Gentile Christians - e.g., Ac 15:1-2
2. Even as he writes this “epistle of joy”, encouraging the brethren to rejoice in the Lord, he finds it necessary to warn them of these false teachers - Ph 3:1-3
a. In these verses, we find Paul making a play on words...
1) He calls the Judaizers “katatome” (mutilation) - Ph 3:2
2) And refers to true Christians as “peritome” (circumcision) - Ph 3:3
b. In doing so, he also declares that “the true circumcision” are those who:
1) Worship God in the Spirit
2) Rejoice in Christ Jesus
3) Have no confidence in the flesh
3. Using himself as an example, Paul further defines the attitudes and characteristics of those who are “The True Circumcision Of God” - Ph 3:4-16
[In doing so, Paul actually does it in an order reverse to what we find in verse 3; thus first illustrating “The True Circumcision Of God” as those who...]
I. HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH (4-8)
A. IF ANY COULD, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN PAUL...
1. He could have boasted in things of a racial nature
a. “circumcised the eighth day”
1) A genuine Jew from birth
2) Not a proselyte
b. “of the stock of Israel”
1) Directly descended from Jacob
a) The Arabs could boast of their descent from Abraham
b) The Edomites could boast of Isaac
2) But only the Jews could boast of Jacob, who had prevailed with God and was given
the name “Israel” (literally, “one who strives with God”)
c. “of the tribe of Benjamin”
1) The son of Jacob’s beloved wife, Rachel
2) The only son actually born in the promised land
3) Israel’s first king, Saul, was from this tribe
4) The only tribe that remained true to Judah when the kingdom was divided
d. “a Hebrew of the Hebrews”
1) Both his parents were Jews
2) He was true to the customs of the Jews, not a Grecian or Hellenistic Jew
2. He could have boasted in things of a religious nature
a. “concerning the law, a Pharisee”
1) A very religious person
2) Belonging to a sect known for their loyalty, patriotism, and conservatism to the Law of Moses
b. “concerning zeal, persecuting the church”
1) Illustrates his sincerity and enthusiasm for his religion
2) Always true to his conscience - cf. Ac 23:1; 26:9-11
c. “concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless”
1) Not that he was perfect
2) But was diligent in fulfilling the requirements of the Law (e.g., animal sacrifices)
B. YET PAUL CONSIDERED THESE THINGS AS “LOSS FOR CHRIST”...
1. All these things which could have provided Paul with prestige and social standing, he counted as loss - Ph 3:7-8
2. In fact, he lost many things when he chose to follow Christ - cf. 1 Co 4:11-13
3. Yet, compared to the excellence of the knowledge of Christ, they were to Paul nothing more than “rubbish” (literally, “dung”)!
C. WHAT ABOUT US...?
1. Do we place confidence in our fleshly accomplishments?
2. Do we take pride in our racial background, religious heritage, etc.?
3. Or do we consider such things as “rubbish” compared to the knowledge of Jesus Christ?
[How we answer helps to determine whether we are “The True Circumcision Of God”! But there is more; those who are the “true circumcision”...]
II. REJOICE IN CHRIST JESUS (9-11)
A. THEIR JOY IS NOT IN THINGS MATERIAL OR FLESHLY, BUT IN CHRIST...!
1. As in Paul’s case, he considered fleshly accomplishments as “rubbish”
2. His compelling desire was to “gain Christ” - Ph 3:8
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO “GAIN CHRIST”...
1. To “be found in Him”, which includes...
a. “not having my own righteousness, which is from the law” (not trusting in his
keeping the Law of Moses to save him)
b. “but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God
by faith” (experiencing salvation as a gift from God through faith in Jesus)
2. To “know Him”
a. The word “know” as used here, means...
1) “to recognize” or “to become acquainted with”
2) I.e., a personal knowledge, not a theoretical or vicarious one
b. In particular, to know “the power of His resurrection”
1) The same power Paul wanted the Ephesians to know - Ep 1:18-20
2) A power that is first experienced in baptism into Christ - Co 2:12-13
3) And throughout our lives - Ep 3:20-21
4) And ultimately in our own bodily resurrection - Ph 3:20-21
c. To know “the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death”
1) In his effort to know Christ, Paul wanted to experience and share even in His
sufferings!
2) “Such fellowship in the sufferings of Christ includes a turning from sin, and the death of self. It may involve much hardship for the sake of Christ. For Paul it finally meant martyrdom.” - Charles Erdman
3) We all should be willing to do the same! - cf. 1 Pe 4:1-2
3. To “attain to the resurrection from the dead”
a. This would be the ultimate experience in “gaining Christ”!
b. I.e., a personal and experiential knowledge of the “power” of the resurrection!
C. WHAT ABOUT US...?
1. Such was the goal of Paul’s life, the source of his true joy!
2. Can this said about us?
3. Is our goal in life to truly “know Christ”?
[If it is, then what Paul continues to say will be our attitude also; for “The True Circumcision Of God” are also those who...]
III. WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT (12-16)
A. JESUS WAS THE FIRST TO DEFINE “TRUE WORSHIP” AS SPIRITUAL WORSHIP...
1. In His discussion with the Samaritan woman at the well - Jn 4:23-24
2. Since God is Spirit, our worship must be of the spirit as well, and not limited to particular locations
B. PAUL DESCRIBES THE ATTITUDES OF THOSE WHO WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT...
1. They are never satisfied with their present spiritual condition - Ph 3:12
2. With perseverance, they press on - Ph 3:13-15
a. Not looking back
1) Resting on past laurels
2) Or bemoaning past failures
b. But ever reaching forward, which is a mark of spiritual maturity
3. All the while living up to the standard of knowledge they have attained - Ph 3:16
CONCLUSION
1. Do these attitudes characterize our devotion to God and His Son?
a. Do we worship God by allowing His Spirit and the Spirit-given Word to rule over our complete lives?
b. Do we consider the relationship we are developing with Christ to be our primary joy and focus in life?
c. Do we place no confidence in the flesh?
--- If so, then we are “The True Circumcision of God”!
2. As Paul invites us to do in verse 17, let’s be sure to follow his example!
How does one begin in becoming “The True Circumcision Of God”? It begins when we in faith submit to the working of God in our lives.
INTRODUCTION
1. Throughout his ministry as an apostle of Jesus Christ, Paul had to contend with certain Jewish Christians...
a. Known today as Judaizers, they were false teachers who often followed Paul wherever he went
b. They would try to bind the act of circumcision and the Law of Moses itself upon Gentile Christians - e.g., Ac 15:1-2
2. Even as he writes this “epistle of joy”, encouraging the brethren to rejoice in the Lord, he finds it necessary to warn them of these false teachers - Ph 3:1-3
a. In these verses, we find Paul making a play on words...
1) He calls the Judaizers “katatome” (mutilation) - Ph 3:2
2) And refers to true Christians as “peritome” (circumcision) - Ph 3:3
b. In doing so, he also declares that “the true circumcision” are those who:
1) Worship God in the Spirit
2) Rejoice in Christ Jesus
3) Have no confidence in the flesh
3. Using himself as an example, Paul further defines the attitudes and characteristics of those who are “The True Circumcision Of God” - Ph 3:4-16
[In doing so, Paul actually does it in an order reverse to what we find in verse 3; thus first illustrating “The True Circumcision Of God” as those who...]
I. HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH (4-8)
A. IF ANY COULD, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN PAUL...
1. He could have boasted in things of a racial nature
a. “circumcised the eighth day”
1) A genuine Jew from birth
2) Not a proselyte
b. “of the stock of Israel”
1) Directly descended from Jacob
a) The Arabs could boast of their descent from Abraham
b) The Edomites could boast of Isaac
2) But only the Jews could boast of Jacob, who had prevailed with God and was given
the name “Israel” (literally, “one who strives with God”)
c. “of the tribe of Benjamin”
1) The son of Jacob’s beloved wife, Rachel
2) The only son actually born in the promised land
3) Israel’s first king, Saul, was from this tribe
4) The only tribe that remained true to Judah when the kingdom was divided
d. “a Hebrew of the Hebrews”
1) Both his parents were Jews
2) He was true to the customs of the Jews, not a Grecian or Hellenistic Jew
2. He could have boasted in things of a religious nature
a. “concerning the law, a Pharisee”
1) A very religious person
2) Belonging to a sect known for their loyalty, patriotism, and conservatism to the Law of Moses
b. “concerning zeal, persecuting the church”
1) Illustrates his sincerity and enthusiasm for his religion
2) Always true to his conscience - cf. Ac 23:1; 26:9-11
c. “concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless”
1) Not that he was perfect
2) But was diligent in fulfilling the requirements of the Law (e.g., animal sacrifices)
B. YET PAUL CONSIDERED THESE THINGS AS “LOSS FOR CHRIST”...
1. All these things which could have provided Paul with prestige and social standing, he counted as loss - Ph 3:7-8
2. In fact, he lost many things when he chose to follow Christ - cf. 1 Co 4:11-13
3. Yet, compared to the excellence of the knowledge of Christ, they were to Paul nothing more than “rubbish” (literally, “dung”)!
C. WHAT ABOUT US...?
1. Do we place confidence in our fleshly accomplishments?
2. Do we take pride in our racial background, religious heritage, etc.?
3. Or do we consider such things as “rubbish” compared to the knowledge of Jesus Christ?
[How we answer helps to determine whether we are “The True Circumcision Of God”! But there is more; those who are the “true circumcision”...]
II. REJOICE IN CHRIST JESUS (9-11)
A. THEIR JOY IS NOT IN THINGS MATERIAL OR FLESHLY, BUT IN CHRIST...!
1. As in Paul’s case, he considered fleshly accomplishments as “rubbish”
2. His compelling desire was to “gain Christ” - Ph 3:8
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO “GAIN CHRIST”...
1. To “be found in Him”, which includes...
a. “not having my own righteousness, which is from the law” (not trusting in his
keeping the Law of Moses to save him)
b. “but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God
by faith” (experiencing salvation as a gift from God through faith in Jesus)
2. To “know Him”
a. The word “know” as used here, means...
1) “to recognize” or “to become acquainted with”
2) I.e., a personal knowledge, not a theoretical or vicarious one
b. In particular, to know “the power of His resurrection”
1) The same power Paul wanted the Ephesians to know - Ep 1:18-20
2) A power that is first experienced in baptism into Christ - Co 2:12-13
3) And throughout our lives - Ep 3:20-21
4) And ultimately in our own bodily resurrection - Ph 3:20-21
c. To know “the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death”
1) In his effort to know Christ, Paul wanted to experience and share even in His
sufferings!
2) “Such fellowship in the sufferings of Christ includes a turning from sin, and the death of self. It may involve much hardship for the sake of Christ. For Paul it finally meant martyrdom.” - Charles Erdman
3) We all should be willing to do the same! - cf. 1 Pe 4:1-2
3. To “attain to the resurrection from the dead”
a. This would be the ultimate experience in “gaining Christ”!
b. I.e., a personal and experiential knowledge of the “power” of the resurrection!
C. WHAT ABOUT US...?
1. Such was the goal of Paul’s life, the source of his true joy!
2. Can this said about us?
3. Is our goal in life to truly “know Christ”?
[If it is, then what Paul continues to say will be our attitude also; for “The True Circumcision Of God” are also those who...]
III. WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT (12-16)
A. JESUS WAS THE FIRST TO DEFINE “TRUE WORSHIP” AS SPIRITUAL WORSHIP...
1. In His discussion with the Samaritan woman at the well - Jn 4:23-24
2. Since God is Spirit, our worship must be of the spirit as well, and not limited to particular locations
B. PAUL DESCRIBES THE ATTITUDES OF THOSE WHO WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT...
1. They are never satisfied with their present spiritual condition - Ph 3:12
2. With perseverance, they press on - Ph 3:13-15
a. Not looking back
1) Resting on past laurels
2) Or bemoaning past failures
b. But ever reaching forward, which is a mark of spiritual maturity
3. All the while living up to the standard of knowledge they have attained - Ph 3:16
CONCLUSION
1. Do these attitudes characterize our devotion to God and His Son?
a. Do we worship God by allowing His Spirit and the Spirit-given Word to rule over our complete lives?
b. Do we consider the relationship we are developing with Christ to be our primary joy and focus in life?
c. Do we place no confidence in the flesh?
--- If so, then we are “The True Circumcision of God”!
2. As Paul invites us to do in verse 17, let’s be sure to follow his example!
How does one begin in becoming “The True Circumcision Of God”? It begins when we in faith submit to the working of God in our lives.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
The Epistle To The Philippians- Chapter Three Study Guide
The Epistle To The Philippians- Chapter Three
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To see the error of placing confidence in fleshly accomplishments
2) To understand the need to strive toward perfection in our desire to know and serve Christ
3) To be reminded of our true citizenship in heaven
SUMMARY
In this chapter we find a warning against those who place great confidence in the flesh (1-3). If anyone had reason to boast about fleshly accomplishments, it was Paul with his Jewish heritage (4-6). But all such things were considered rubbish in relation to the excellence of knowing Christ Jesus (7-8). Therefore Paul had as his goal to be found in Christ, having that righteousness which is by faith in Jesus, knowing Him and the power of His resurrection, and even sharing in His sufferings, that he might by any means attain to the resurrection from the dead (9-11).
Paul then describes his attitude of pressing on, and encourages all to follow his example and that of others who walk likewise (12-17). Such an exhortation is necessary in view of the reality that there are many people who are enemies of the cross of Christ, who have made their fleshly appetites the focus of their minds, and indeed their god (18-19). Christians, however, should remember that their true
citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for Jesus Christ who will transform our lowly bodies to be conformed to His glorious body (20-21).
OUTLINE
I. WARNINGS AGAINST JUDAISM (1-11)
A. BEWARE OF THE JUDAIZERS (1-3)
1. Rejoice in the Lord! (1)
2. Beware of "dogs", evil workers, the false circumcision (2)
3. For the true circumcision are those who...
a. Worship God in the Spirit
b. Rejoice in Christ
c. Have no confidence in the flesh (3)
B. PAUL'S EARLIER CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH (4-6)
1. Paul had many grounds for boasting in the flesh (4)
2. A list of things pertaining to the flesh in which he could have boasted (5-6)
C. PAUL'S DESIRE TO KNOW CHRIST (7-11)
1. He counted all as loss for the surpassing value of knowing Christ (7-8)
2. He supreme goal:
a. To have that righteousness which comes through faith in Christ (9)
b. To know Christ and the power of His resurrection (10a)
c. To share in His sufferings, even in His death, that by any means he might attain to the resurrection from the dead (10b-11)
II. WARNINGS AGAINST ANTINOMIANISM (12-21)
A. PAUL'S ATTITUDE OF PRESSING ON (12-14)
1. He does not consider himself perfect, so he presses on (12)
2. He forgets those things which are behind, and reaches forward to what lies ahead (13)
3. His goal is the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (14)
B. AN EXHORTATION FOR THEM TO HAVE THE SAME MIND (15-17)
1. Let those who are mature have the same mind (15)
2. To the degree you have already attained, so live (16)
3. Follow the example set by Paul and others, who live this way (17)
C. A WARNING AGAINST THE ENEMIES OF THE CROSS (18-19)
1. With tears, Paul warns them of those who do not walk properly (18)
2. Such people set their minds on earthly things, making their belly their god (19)
D. A REMINDER OF OUR TRUE CITIZENSHIP (20-21)
1. Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for Jesus (20)
2. Who when He comes will transform our lowly body to conform to His glorious body (21)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Warnings against Judaism (1-11)
- Warnings against antinomianism (12-21)
2) Who does Paul warn against? (2)
- Dogs, evil workers, the "mutilation" (false circumcision); i.e., Judaizers, those who would impose circumcision and the keeping of the Law of Moses on Gentile Christians (cf. Ac 15:1-6)
3) What characterizes those who are the true circumcision? (3)
- They worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh
4) What sort of things could Paul have boasted pertaining to the flesh? (4-6)
- Circumcised the eighth day
- Of the stock of Israel
- Of the tribe of Benjamin
- A Hebrew of the Hebrews
- Concerning the Law, a Pharisee
- Concerning zeal, persecuting the church
- Concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless
5) How did Paul view these fleshly things? (7-8)
- As loss, as rubbish, in contrast to the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus
6) What was Paul's earnest desire? (9-11)
- To be found in Christ
- To have the righteousness that comes through faith in Him
- To know Him and the power of His resurrection
- To know the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death
- To attain to the resurrection from the dead
7) Did Paul view himself as having already attained, or having been perfected? (12)
- No
8) According to Paul, what was the "one thing" he did? (13-14)
- Forgetting those things which are behind, reaching forward to those things ahead, he pressed toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus
9) What is the attitude, or mind, of those who are "mature"? (15)
- The attitude Paul had, of pressing on
10) How should the Christian walk? (16)
- To the degree or rule that they have attained
11) Whose example were the Philippians to follow? (17)
- Paul's, and those whose "walk" was similar to his
12) What description is given of those who are "enemies of the cross of Christ"? (18-19)
- Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, their glory is in their shame, and they set their minds on earthly things
13) Where is our citizenship? (20)
- In heaven
14) What will Christ do when He comes again? (21)
- Transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To see the error of placing confidence in fleshly accomplishments
2) To understand the need to strive toward perfection in our desire to know and serve Christ
3) To be reminded of our true citizenship in heaven
SUMMARY
In this chapter we find a warning against those who place great confidence in the flesh (1-3). If anyone had reason to boast about fleshly accomplishments, it was Paul with his Jewish heritage (4-6). But all such things were considered rubbish in relation to the excellence of knowing Christ Jesus (7-8). Therefore Paul had as his goal to be found in Christ, having that righteousness which is by faith in Jesus, knowing Him and the power of His resurrection, and even sharing in His sufferings, that he might by any means attain to the resurrection from the dead (9-11).
Paul then describes his attitude of pressing on, and encourages all to follow his example and that of others who walk likewise (12-17). Such an exhortation is necessary in view of the reality that there are many people who are enemies of the cross of Christ, who have made their fleshly appetites the focus of their minds, and indeed their god (18-19). Christians, however, should remember that their true
citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for Jesus Christ who will transform our lowly bodies to be conformed to His glorious body (20-21).
OUTLINE
I. WARNINGS AGAINST JUDAISM (1-11)
A. BEWARE OF THE JUDAIZERS (1-3)
1. Rejoice in the Lord! (1)
2. Beware of "dogs", evil workers, the false circumcision (2)
3. For the true circumcision are those who...
a. Worship God in the Spirit
b. Rejoice in Christ
c. Have no confidence in the flesh (3)
B. PAUL'S EARLIER CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH (4-6)
1. Paul had many grounds for boasting in the flesh (4)
2. A list of things pertaining to the flesh in which he could have boasted (5-6)
C. PAUL'S DESIRE TO KNOW CHRIST (7-11)
1. He counted all as loss for the surpassing value of knowing Christ (7-8)
2. He supreme goal:
a. To have that righteousness which comes through faith in Christ (9)
b. To know Christ and the power of His resurrection (10a)
c. To share in His sufferings, even in His death, that by any means he might attain to the resurrection from the dead (10b-11)
II. WARNINGS AGAINST ANTINOMIANISM (12-21)
A. PAUL'S ATTITUDE OF PRESSING ON (12-14)
1. He does not consider himself perfect, so he presses on (12)
2. He forgets those things which are behind, and reaches forward to what lies ahead (13)
3. His goal is the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (14)
B. AN EXHORTATION FOR THEM TO HAVE THE SAME MIND (15-17)
1. Let those who are mature have the same mind (15)
2. To the degree you have already attained, so live (16)
3. Follow the example set by Paul and others, who live this way (17)
C. A WARNING AGAINST THE ENEMIES OF THE CROSS (18-19)
1. With tears, Paul warns them of those who do not walk properly (18)
2. Such people set their minds on earthly things, making their belly their god (19)
D. A REMINDER OF OUR TRUE CITIZENSHIP (20-21)
1. Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for Jesus (20)
2. Who when He comes will transform our lowly body to conform to His glorious body (21)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Warnings against Judaism (1-11)
- Warnings against antinomianism (12-21)
2) Who does Paul warn against? (2)
- Dogs, evil workers, the "mutilation" (false circumcision); i.e., Judaizers, those who would impose circumcision and the keeping of the Law of Moses on Gentile Christians (cf. Ac 15:1-6)
3) What characterizes those who are the true circumcision? (3)
- They worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh
4) What sort of things could Paul have boasted pertaining to the flesh? (4-6)
- Circumcised the eighth day
- Of the stock of Israel
- Of the tribe of Benjamin
- A Hebrew of the Hebrews
- Concerning the Law, a Pharisee
- Concerning zeal, persecuting the church
- Concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless
5) How did Paul view these fleshly things? (7-8)
- As loss, as rubbish, in contrast to the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus
6) What was Paul's earnest desire? (9-11)
- To be found in Christ
- To have the righteousness that comes through faith in Him
- To know Him and the power of His resurrection
- To know the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death
- To attain to the resurrection from the dead
7) Did Paul view himself as having already attained, or having been perfected? (12)
- No
8) According to Paul, what was the "one thing" he did? (13-14)
- Forgetting those things which are behind, reaching forward to those things ahead, he pressed toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus
9) What is the attitude, or mind, of those who are "mature"? (15)
- The attitude Paul had, of pressing on
10) How should the Christian walk? (16)
- To the degree or rule that they have attained
11) Whose example were the Philippians to follow? (17)
- Paul's, and those whose "walk" was similar to his
12) What description is given of those who are "enemies of the cross of Christ"? (18-19)
- Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, their glory is in their shame, and they set their minds on earthly things
13) Where is our citizenship? (20)
- In heaven
14) What will Christ do when He comes again? (21)
- Transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Paul’s Son And Brother- Philippians 2:19-30
Paul’s Son And Brother- Philippians 2:19-30
INTRODUCTION
1. We have already observed that this epistle is very personal in nature
2. Further proof of this is now seen as we consider Paul’s remarks concerning two men; one described as a “son” to Paul, the other as a “brother” - Ph 2:19-30
3. Paul’s comments reveal that these two men demonstrated the “mind of Christ” about which Paul encouraged the Philippians to have earlier in this chapter
[In this study, we shall notice in what ways these two men demonstrated the “mind of Christ” in their service to their brethren, beginning with...]
I. TIMOTHY, PAUL’S “SON” (19-24)
A. WHAT WERE PAUL’S PLANS CONCERNING TIMOTHY...?
1. To send him to Philippi shortly (19,23)
a. That when Timothy returns, Paul might be encouraged by their condition (19b)
b. But notice that Paul trusts in the Lord Jesus to do this - perhaps another way of saying, “If the Lord wills” (cf. Ja 4:15)
2. But sending Timothy would be delayed until Paul’s condition was more fully known (23b)
B. WHY USE TIMOTHY...?
1. Paul had no one else...
a. Who was “like-minded” (20a)
1) Who had the same mind as Paul
2) Paul and Timothy were truly “united in spirit” and had that unity described in Ph 2:2
3) Therefore, Timothy was the best “alternate” in the place of Paul
b. Who would “sincerely care for your state” (20b)
1) Remember, Timothy had first joined Paul just before going to Philippi (Ac 16:1-12)
2) So Timothy had good reasons to be close to the brethren there
a) It was “his” first missionary effort
b) He had known of them from the very beginning of their existence as a church
c. No other person was better suited, therefore, for this particular task
2. His devotion to Christ surpassed others (21)
a. He sought the interests of Christ, which meant the interests of others - cf. Ph 2:4-5
b. So no one else surpassed Timothy in having the “mind of Christ”
3. He had proved his service in similar errands (22)
a. For example, with the church at Corinth - 1 Co 4:17
b. He had done so with humility: “as a son with his father he served with me”
c. Again, Timothy demonstrated the “mind of Christ” - cf. Ph 2:3
[Such was the young man Timothy: a beloved “son” to the apostle, whose attitudes of humility and service made him a useful instrument in Paul’s ministry. Now let’s consider...]
II. EPAPHRODITUS, PAUL’S “BROTHER” (25-30)
A. WHO WAS EPAPHRODITUS...?)
1. “my brother” - a brother in Christ to the apostle Paul
2. “fellow-worker” - a companion in the work of spreading the gospel
3. “fellow-soldier” - one shared in the conflicts with the enemies of Christ
4. “your messenger” - the one bearing the gift from the Philippians to Paul - cf. Ph 4:18
5. “who ministered to my needs” - now with Paul, he offered himself in service to him
B. WHAT KIND OF MAN WAS HE...?
1. A man of love and concern for his brethren at Philippi (26-27)
a. He longed for his brethren while away from them
b. He had been sick, and was distressed they knew about it
2. A man devoted to the work of Christ (30)
a. Who realized that serving others (like Paul and the Philippians) was serving Christ
b. Who was willing to risk his life in such service - cf. 1 Jn 3:16
3. A man who did not mind being a “messenger”
a. He had brought the gift to Paul from Philippi - Ph 4:18
b. More than likely, he carried this epistle back to the Philippians (28)
c. Such willingness again demonstrates humility, so important to having the “mind of
Christ”
-- Truly he was a man who lived up to his name: “Epaphroditus” means “handsome,
charming”
CONCLUSION
1. Individuals like Timothy and Epaphroditus we are to hold in high esteem (29) - Why?
a. Because they demonstrate the humility and love so essential to the cause of Christ
b. Because they rendered service to God and His church which is just as essential as that offered by men like Paul and Peter
2. The church today needs more people like these two men, to provide the backup and support necessary for the cause of Christ
3. We may not be a “Paul” or a “Peter”, but we can be a “Timothy” or an “Epaphroditus”
4. All we need are the same attitudes they had:
a. Sincere concern for the condition of others
b. Seeking first the things of Christ
c. A willingness to serve others
d. A willingness to sacrifice themselves, even to the point of death
--- I.e., the “mind of Christ”!
INTRODUCTION
1. We have already observed that this epistle is very personal in nature
2. Further proof of this is now seen as we consider Paul’s remarks concerning two men; one described as a “son” to Paul, the other as a “brother” - Ph 2:19-30
3. Paul’s comments reveal that these two men demonstrated the “mind of Christ” about which Paul encouraged the Philippians to have earlier in this chapter
[In this study, we shall notice in what ways these two men demonstrated the “mind of Christ” in their service to their brethren, beginning with...]
I. TIMOTHY, PAUL’S “SON” (19-24)
A. WHAT WERE PAUL’S PLANS CONCERNING TIMOTHY...?
1. To send him to Philippi shortly (19,23)
a. That when Timothy returns, Paul might be encouraged by their condition (19b)
b. But notice that Paul trusts in the Lord Jesus to do this - perhaps another way of saying, “If the Lord wills” (cf. Ja 4:15)
2. But sending Timothy would be delayed until Paul’s condition was more fully known (23b)
B. WHY USE TIMOTHY...?
1. Paul had no one else...
a. Who was “like-minded” (20a)
1) Who had the same mind as Paul
2) Paul and Timothy were truly “united in spirit” and had that unity described in Ph 2:2
3) Therefore, Timothy was the best “alternate” in the place of Paul
b. Who would “sincerely care for your state” (20b)
1) Remember, Timothy had first joined Paul just before going to Philippi (Ac 16:1-12)
2) So Timothy had good reasons to be close to the brethren there
a) It was “his” first missionary effort
b) He had known of them from the very beginning of their existence as a church
c. No other person was better suited, therefore, for this particular task
2. His devotion to Christ surpassed others (21)
a. He sought the interests of Christ, which meant the interests of others - cf. Ph 2:4-5
b. So no one else surpassed Timothy in having the “mind of Christ”
3. He had proved his service in similar errands (22)
a. For example, with the church at Corinth - 1 Co 4:17
b. He had done so with humility: “as a son with his father he served with me”
c. Again, Timothy demonstrated the “mind of Christ” - cf. Ph 2:3
[Such was the young man Timothy: a beloved “son” to the apostle, whose attitudes of humility and service made him a useful instrument in Paul’s ministry. Now let’s consider...]
II. EPAPHRODITUS, PAUL’S “BROTHER” (25-30)
A. WHO WAS EPAPHRODITUS...?)
1. “my brother” - a brother in Christ to the apostle Paul
2. “fellow-worker” - a companion in the work of spreading the gospel
3. “fellow-soldier” - one shared in the conflicts with the enemies of Christ
4. “your messenger” - the one bearing the gift from the Philippians to Paul - cf. Ph 4:18
5. “who ministered to my needs” - now with Paul, he offered himself in service to him
B. WHAT KIND OF MAN WAS HE...?
1. A man of love and concern for his brethren at Philippi (26-27)
a. He longed for his brethren while away from them
b. He had been sick, and was distressed they knew about it
2. A man devoted to the work of Christ (30)
a. Who realized that serving others (like Paul and the Philippians) was serving Christ
b. Who was willing to risk his life in such service - cf. 1 Jn 3:16
3. A man who did not mind being a “messenger”
a. He had brought the gift to Paul from Philippi - Ph 4:18
b. More than likely, he carried this epistle back to the Philippians (28)
c. Such willingness again demonstrates humility, so important to having the “mind of
Christ”
-- Truly he was a man who lived up to his name: “Epaphroditus” means “handsome,
charming”
CONCLUSION
1. Individuals like Timothy and Epaphroditus we are to hold in high esteem (29) - Why?
a. Because they demonstrate the humility and love so essential to the cause of Christ
b. Because they rendered service to God and His church which is just as essential as that offered by men like Paul and Peter
2. The church today needs more people like these two men, to provide the backup and support necessary for the cause of Christ
3. We may not be a “Paul” or a “Peter”, but we can be a “Timothy” or an “Epaphroditus”
4. All we need are the same attitudes they had:
a. Sincere concern for the condition of others
b. Seeking first the things of Christ
c. A willingness to serve others
d. A willingness to sacrifice themselves, even to the point of death
--- I.e., the “mind of Christ”!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Work Out Your Own Salvation- Philippians 2:12-18
Work Out Your Own Salvation- Philippians 2:12-18
INTRODUCTION
1. One of the things that interests me about Paul’s writings is that he is intensely practical
2. He always relates...
a. Doctrine and duty
b. Creed and character
c. Faith and life
-- To Paul, these are inseparable!
3. So it is now, that having described the example of Christ, he bases upon that example his exhortation to earnest endeavor towards spiritual progress - Ph 2:12-18
4. In this passage, Paul exhorts Christians to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”; in this lesson, there are several observations I would like to make concerning what this involves
[First, consider that as you “Work Out Your Own Salvation” that...]
I. THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF OBEDIENCE (12a)
A. THAT DONE ONLY IN THE PRESENCE OF OTHERS...
1. This is a very common form of obedience
a. Done only when others are around
b. Because we fear what others might think if we don’t behave a certain way
2. Yet Paul didn't want the Philippians’ obedience to be of that sort
a. For then it would only be what he calls elsewhere “eye-service” - cf. Co 3:22
b. Their faith would then only be an “environmental faith” (a faith which is active only if the environment is conducive to it)
B. THAT DONE IN THE ABSENCE OF OTHERS...
1. This is the proper form of obedience
a. Done to please God, conscience, and no one else!
b. This type of obedience remains faithful no matter what others do or think
2. It is this type of obedience...
a. That Paul hoped for in the lives of his beloved friends
b. That we should render in our service to the Lord and His cause
[Secondly, we should also bear in mind that as you “Work Out Your Own Salvation”...]
II. IT INVOLVES THE WORKING OF BOTH MAN AND GOD (12b-13)
A. MAN HAS A ROLE TO PLAY IN HIS SALVATION...
1. He must “work out” his salvation
a. As Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost - Ac 2:40
b. And also wrote later to Christians - 2 Pe 1:10
-- Therefore man is not totally passive (or helpless) when it comes to his salvation!
2. He must also have “fear and trembling” in working out his salvation
a. There is a place for the right kind of fear in the life of a Christian
1) The “fear of the Lord” is the beginning of knowledge - Pro 1:7
2) The “fear of the Lord” will cause one to hate evil - Pro 8:13
3) The “fear of the Lord” will prolong life - Pro 10:27
4) The “fear of the Lord” provides strong confidence and is a fountain of life - Pro 14:26-27
5) The “fear of the Lord” prompts one to depart from evil - Pro 16:6
6) The “fear of the Lord” leads to a satisfying life, and spares one from much evil - Pro 19:23
7) The “fear of the Lord” is the way to riches, honor, and life! - Pro 22:4
b. Prompted by the “fear of the Lord” to hate evil, depart from it, and turn to God where they will find wisdom, life and honor, they will also come to find that love which dispels any improper kind of “fear” - cf. 1 Jn 4:17-18
c. But many never experienced such love from God because they have not had the “fear
and trembling” in the first place!
B. BUT GOD IS ALSO VERY MUCH INVOLVED IN OUR SALVATION...!
1. Notice that Paul writes “for it is God who works in you”
a. We are not alone in our efforts to serve God
b. God is always there to help us along
2. In what way does God “work” in us? Paul identifies two ways:
a. “to will” - God helps us in our desire and motivation to do His will
b. “to do” - He works right along together with us!
3. This does not deny that man is a free moral agent...
a. Paul has already said to “work out your own salvation”
b. But when we offer ourselves in service to God, He becomes our partner, our “copilot” - cf. He 13:20-21
1) At our conversion, He begins a new work in us, and intends to complete it - Ph 1:6
2) Through His indwelling Spirit and Son, He gives us whatever strength we need - Ep
3:16; Ph 4:13
3) So that, whatever we may become in the Lord, it is by His grace! - 1 Co 15:10
c. Unfortunately, many Christians hinder God’s work in them by their lukewarm attitude (or is it their lack of faith in God?)
d. God can work (and is willing!), but only if we let Him!
4. Knowing that God is at work in us, this ought to provide further motivation to work out our salvation!
[As we read on, we learn that one is to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”...]
III. DOING SO WITHOUT MURMURING AND DISPUTING (14)
A. MURMURING WAS THE DOWNFALL OF ISRAEL...
1. Notice 1 Co 10:10-12
2. This can also be a problem among many Christians today whenever they face hardships
3. But we are told that God is ever ready to help us (1 Co 10:13), and that He is in us both to “will” and to “work” (Ph 2:13), so why complain?
4. Rather, rejoice for the opportunity such “tribulations” give us to develop spiritually! - Ro 5:3-5; Ja 1:2-4
B. DISPUTING OFTEN FOLLOWS MURMURING...
1. Those who murmur are likely to be the same ones who begin disputing with others
2. All it accomplishes is ill will, and in many cases, unnecessary division
3. Shall we dare destroy the unity for which Christ died on the cross to attain?
[We need to heed Paul’s exhortation to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”...]
IV. SO YOU CAN SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (15-16)
A. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT...
1. Which is possible only if we “become blameless and harmless”
2. Which requires doing all things “without murmuring and disputing”
3. Which can only happen if we allow God to “work in” us as we “work out” our own
salvation; in other words...
a. Allow God go forgive us in obedience to the gospel
b. Allow God to strengthen us through His Word and prayer
c. Allow God to change us in conformity to His Will
B. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE “IN THE MIDST” OF CROOKED AND
PERVERSE GENERATION...
1. Lights are value only if they are used to dispel darkness - cf. Mt 5:14-15
2. Though we are to “be separate” from the world (2 Co 6:14-18), we must “not isolate” ourselves from it - cf. Jn 17:15,18; 1 Co 5:9-11
3. We must associate with those in the world in order to be a positive influence
C. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST “HOLD FAST” THE WORD OF LIFE...
1. Some translations read “hold forth”
2. Certainly we should do both...
a. “hold fast” the Word of life (by our study and obedience to it) - 2 Ti 2:15
b. “hold forth” the Word of life (by offering it to those in the world) - Mk 16:15
3. In both ways, we are to be like “The Statue Of Liberty”
a. Showing the way
b. Offering hope to those in need
[Acting as “lights in the world”, we bring great joy to those who taught us the Word of God (16). Finally, Paul writes that as you “Work Out Your Own Salvation”, it should include...]
V. REJOICING IN YOUR SACRIFICES (17-18)
A. WE MAY BE CALLED UPON TO SACRIFICE OURSELVES...
1. It may be in service to our own faith, or in the service of the faith of others
2. It may be a sacrifice of time, energy, money, or even life itself
3. But it is for a good cause, and this is how Paul viewed his possible execution for the cause of Christ
B. SUCH SACRIFICES CAN BE AN OCCASION FOR GLADNESS AND REJOICING...!
1. This is how Paul viewed it
2. For he knew his sacrifices was in the cause of saving others
3. And he knew that their salvation would ultimately bring him greater joy at Christ’s coming - cf. 1 Th 2:19-20
4. Does not the prospect of seeing each other in the presence of the Lord at His coming...
a. Make any sacrifice for one another worthwhile?
b. Constitute good reason to be glad and rejoice in sacrificial service?
CONCLUSION
1. Such are some of the things involved in the salvation God offers
2. Are they included in your efforts to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”?
3. As someone has suggested: “Work as though it all depended upon you, but pray as though it all depended upon God”
4. Indeed we should, for as we work out our salvation, it is God who is working in us!
Are you doing your part?
INTRODUCTION
1. One of the things that interests me about Paul’s writings is that he is intensely practical
2. He always relates...
a. Doctrine and duty
b. Creed and character
c. Faith and life
-- To Paul, these are inseparable!
3. So it is now, that having described the example of Christ, he bases upon that example his exhortation to earnest endeavor towards spiritual progress - Ph 2:12-18
4. In this passage, Paul exhorts Christians to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”; in this lesson, there are several observations I would like to make concerning what this involves
[First, consider that as you “Work Out Your Own Salvation” that...]
I. THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF OBEDIENCE (12a)
A. THAT DONE ONLY IN THE PRESENCE OF OTHERS...
1. This is a very common form of obedience
a. Done only when others are around
b. Because we fear what others might think if we don’t behave a certain way
2. Yet Paul didn't want the Philippians’ obedience to be of that sort
a. For then it would only be what he calls elsewhere “eye-service” - cf. Co 3:22
b. Their faith would then only be an “environmental faith” (a faith which is active only if the environment is conducive to it)
B. THAT DONE IN THE ABSENCE OF OTHERS...
1. This is the proper form of obedience
a. Done to please God, conscience, and no one else!
b. This type of obedience remains faithful no matter what others do or think
2. It is this type of obedience...
a. That Paul hoped for in the lives of his beloved friends
b. That we should render in our service to the Lord and His cause
[Secondly, we should also bear in mind that as you “Work Out Your Own Salvation”...]
II. IT INVOLVES THE WORKING OF BOTH MAN AND GOD (12b-13)
A. MAN HAS A ROLE TO PLAY IN HIS SALVATION...
1. He must “work out” his salvation
a. As Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost - Ac 2:40
b. And also wrote later to Christians - 2 Pe 1:10
-- Therefore man is not totally passive (or helpless) when it comes to his salvation!
2. He must also have “fear and trembling” in working out his salvation
a. There is a place for the right kind of fear in the life of a Christian
1) The “fear of the Lord” is the beginning of knowledge - Pro 1:7
2) The “fear of the Lord” will cause one to hate evil - Pro 8:13
3) The “fear of the Lord” will prolong life - Pro 10:27
4) The “fear of the Lord” provides strong confidence and is a fountain of life - Pro 14:26-27
5) The “fear of the Lord” prompts one to depart from evil - Pro 16:6
6) The “fear of the Lord” leads to a satisfying life, and spares one from much evil - Pro 19:23
7) The “fear of the Lord” is the way to riches, honor, and life! - Pro 22:4
b. Prompted by the “fear of the Lord” to hate evil, depart from it, and turn to God where they will find wisdom, life and honor, they will also come to find that love which dispels any improper kind of “fear” - cf. 1 Jn 4:17-18
c. But many never experienced such love from God because they have not had the “fear
and trembling” in the first place!
B. BUT GOD IS ALSO VERY MUCH INVOLVED IN OUR SALVATION...!
1. Notice that Paul writes “for it is God who works in you”
a. We are not alone in our efforts to serve God
b. God is always there to help us along
2. In what way does God “work” in us? Paul identifies two ways:
a. “to will” - God helps us in our desire and motivation to do His will
b. “to do” - He works right along together with us!
3. This does not deny that man is a free moral agent...
a. Paul has already said to “work out your own salvation”
b. But when we offer ourselves in service to God, He becomes our partner, our “copilot” - cf. He 13:20-21
1) At our conversion, He begins a new work in us, and intends to complete it - Ph 1:6
2) Through His indwelling Spirit and Son, He gives us whatever strength we need - Ep
3:16; Ph 4:13
3) So that, whatever we may become in the Lord, it is by His grace! - 1 Co 15:10
c. Unfortunately, many Christians hinder God’s work in them by their lukewarm attitude (or is it their lack of faith in God?)
d. God can work (and is willing!), but only if we let Him!
4. Knowing that God is at work in us, this ought to provide further motivation to work out our salvation!
[As we read on, we learn that one is to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”...]
III. DOING SO WITHOUT MURMURING AND DISPUTING (14)
A. MURMURING WAS THE DOWNFALL OF ISRAEL...
1. Notice 1 Co 10:10-12
2. This can also be a problem among many Christians today whenever they face hardships
3. But we are told that God is ever ready to help us (1 Co 10:13), and that He is in us both to “will” and to “work” (Ph 2:13), so why complain?
4. Rather, rejoice for the opportunity such “tribulations” give us to develop spiritually! - Ro 5:3-5; Ja 1:2-4
B. DISPUTING OFTEN FOLLOWS MURMURING...
1. Those who murmur are likely to be the same ones who begin disputing with others
2. All it accomplishes is ill will, and in many cases, unnecessary division
3. Shall we dare destroy the unity for which Christ died on the cross to attain?
[We need to heed Paul’s exhortation to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”...]
IV. SO YOU CAN SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (15-16)
A. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT...
1. Which is possible only if we “become blameless and harmless”
2. Which requires doing all things “without murmuring and disputing”
3. Which can only happen if we allow God to “work in” us as we “work out” our own
salvation; in other words...
a. Allow God go forgive us in obedience to the gospel
b. Allow God to strengthen us through His Word and prayer
c. Allow God to change us in conformity to His Will
B. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE “IN THE MIDST” OF CROOKED AND
PERVERSE GENERATION...
1. Lights are value only if they are used to dispel darkness - cf. Mt 5:14-15
2. Though we are to “be separate” from the world (2 Co 6:14-18), we must “not isolate” ourselves from it - cf. Jn 17:15,18; 1 Co 5:9-11
3. We must associate with those in the world in order to be a positive influence
C. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST “HOLD FAST” THE WORD OF LIFE...
1. Some translations read “hold forth”
2. Certainly we should do both...
a. “hold fast” the Word of life (by our study and obedience to it) - 2 Ti 2:15
b. “hold forth” the Word of life (by offering it to those in the world) - Mk 16:15
3. In both ways, we are to be like “The Statue Of Liberty”
a. Showing the way
b. Offering hope to those in need
[Acting as “lights in the world”, we bring great joy to those who taught us the Word of God (16). Finally, Paul writes that as you “Work Out Your Own Salvation”, it should include...]
V. REJOICING IN YOUR SACRIFICES (17-18)
A. WE MAY BE CALLED UPON TO SACRIFICE OURSELVES...
1. It may be in service to our own faith, or in the service of the faith of others
2. It may be a sacrifice of time, energy, money, or even life itself
3. But it is for a good cause, and this is how Paul viewed his possible execution for the cause of Christ
B. SUCH SACRIFICES CAN BE AN OCCASION FOR GLADNESS AND REJOICING...!
1. This is how Paul viewed it
2. For he knew his sacrifices was in the cause of saving others
3. And he knew that their salvation would ultimately bring him greater joy at Christ’s coming - cf. 1 Th 2:19-20
4. Does not the prospect of seeing each other in the presence of the Lord at His coming...
a. Make any sacrifice for one another worthwhile?
b. Constitute good reason to be glad and rejoice in sacrificial service?
CONCLUSION
1. Such are some of the things involved in the salvation God offers
2. Are they included in your efforts to “Work Out Your Own Salvation”?
3. As someone has suggested: “Work as though it all depended upon you, but pray as though it all depended upon God”
4. Indeed we should, for as we work out our salvation, it is God who is working in us!
Are you doing your part?
Monday, September 6, 2010
The Mind Of Christ- Philippians 2:5-11
The Mind Of Christ- Philippians 2:5-11
INTRODUCTION
1. In vs. 1-4 of this second chapter, Paul wrote about “The Unity That Produces Joy”, in which he described:
a. The motivation for having this unity
b. The nature of this unity
c. The attitudes necessary to have this unity
2. In describing the latter, he called upon the Philippians to:
a. Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit
b. Have lowliness of mind in which they esteem others better than themselves
c. Look out for the interests of others, and not only those of their own
3. In vs. 5, Paul continues to exhort them to have “this mind” (the attitudes of vs. 3-4), pointing out that this is also the “mind of Christ”
4. In vs. 6-11, Paul elaborates on the “mind of Christ” (or the attitude of Christ), which will serve as the focus of this particular study
[First, note that “The Mind Of Christ”...]
I. LACKED SELFISH AMBITION OR CONCEIT (6)
A. PRIOR TO HIS INCARNATION...
1. Jesus was “in the form of God”
a. That is, “He existed as essentially one with God” (Vincent’s Word Studies)
b. This is in accord with what we read in Jn 1:1-3
2. He was also “equal with God”
a. Again notice Jn 1:1
b. He certainly shared similar glory with the Father (Jn 17:5), something the Father
refused to share with any created being (cf. Is 42:8)
B. YET CHRIST DID NOT CONSIDER SUCH EQUALITY “ROBBERY”...
1. Lit., “a thing to be grasped”; that is, something to be laid hold of, and retained jealously
2. The “glory” of equality with God which Christ enjoyed from eternity was not something He felt like He had to cling on to
3. A true demonstration of a lack of selfish ambition and conceit on the part of our Lord!
C. DO WE HAVE “THE MIND OF CHRIST”...?
1. Do we consider our “standing” before others (whatever that may be) something to be held on to?
2. Do we consider ourselves more important than others, and consider that distinction
something to be preserved at all costs? -- If so, then we lack “The Mind Of Christ”!
[As we continue to read on in our text, we see also that “The Mind Of Christ”...]
II. LOOKED OUT FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS (7-8)
A. WHEN CHRIST BECAME FLESH...
1. He “made Himself of no reputation”
a. Some versions say “emptied Himself”
b. He divested Himself of the “glory” He had with the Father - cf. Jn 17:5
2. He took upon Himself “the form of a servant”
a. He did not come as a “king”, “nobleman”, etc.
b. But as the lowly son of a simple carpenter
3. He came “in the likeness of men”
a. As such, He could experience their temptations and sufferings - He 2:14,17-18; 4:15;5:7
b. In other words, though deity, He was truly “man” (not some sort of “superman”)
4. He “humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of
the cross”
a. Consider He 5:8
b. Though in every way a man like you or me (while still the Son of God), He humbled
Himself and obediently suffered and died on the cross!
-- Why did Jesus do all this?
B. HE DID IT ALL FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS...!
1. He became man, humbled himself as a man, was obedient, and then died on the cross - because it was in our own best interest!
2. He did it, to bear our reproach - cf. Ro 15:1-3; Is 53:4-6
3. Yes, He was looking out for our interests!
C. DO WE HAVE “THE MIND OF CHRIST”...?
1. We do, if we are looking out for the interests of others
2. We do, if we are willing to humble ourselves, even sacrifice ourselves if it be in the best interests of others - cf. 1 Jn 3:16
[Such is “The Mind Of Christ”, one of humility and service to others; but it is also one that is...]
III. HIGHLY EXALTED BY GOD (9-11)
A. IN THE CASE OF JESUS...
1. He is a good example of the Scriptural maxim: “He that humbles himself shall be
exalted”
2. For God has highly exalted Jesus in two ways:
a. In the present - by giving Him “the name which is above every name” (the name by
which men must be saved - Ac 4:12)
b. In the future - that at His name “every knee should bow...that every tongue should
confess” He is Lord! - Re 5:11-14
B. BUT ALSO IN OUR CASE...
1. Those who possess “The Mind Of Christ” will participate in that great future exaltation of Christ! - cf. Ro 8:16-18; 2 Th 1:10-12
2. Isn’t this a wonderful motivation for us to have “The Mind Of Christ”?
CONCLUSION
1. We have seen in this passage that “The Mind Of Christ” involves...
a. Humility
b. Obedience
c. Sacrifice
d. Great Reward
2. Do we possess “The Mind Of Christ”? We should, for it is the “key” to:
a. The unity that produces joy!
b. One day sharing in “glory” together with Christ!
3. As Christians, let’s be diligent to manifest “The Mind Of Christ” in our relationship to God and to each other
If you are not a Christian, why not begin possessing “The Mind of Christ” by following His example of humble obedience to the Will of God...
INTRODUCTION
1. In vs. 1-4 of this second chapter, Paul wrote about “The Unity That Produces Joy”, in which he described:
a. The motivation for having this unity
b. The nature of this unity
c. The attitudes necessary to have this unity
2. In describing the latter, he called upon the Philippians to:
a. Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit
b. Have lowliness of mind in which they esteem others better than themselves
c. Look out for the interests of others, and not only those of their own
3. In vs. 5, Paul continues to exhort them to have “this mind” (the attitudes of vs. 3-4), pointing out that this is also the “mind of Christ”
4. In vs. 6-11, Paul elaborates on the “mind of Christ” (or the attitude of Christ), which will serve as the focus of this particular study
[First, note that “The Mind Of Christ”...]
I. LACKED SELFISH AMBITION OR CONCEIT (6)
A. PRIOR TO HIS INCARNATION...
1. Jesus was “in the form of God”
a. That is, “He existed as essentially one with God” (Vincent’s Word Studies)
b. This is in accord with what we read in Jn 1:1-3
2. He was also “equal with God”
a. Again notice Jn 1:1
b. He certainly shared similar glory with the Father (Jn 17:5), something the Father
refused to share with any created being (cf. Is 42:8)
B. YET CHRIST DID NOT CONSIDER SUCH EQUALITY “ROBBERY”...
1. Lit., “a thing to be grasped”; that is, something to be laid hold of, and retained jealously
2. The “glory” of equality with God which Christ enjoyed from eternity was not something He felt like He had to cling on to
3. A true demonstration of a lack of selfish ambition and conceit on the part of our Lord!
C. DO WE HAVE “THE MIND OF CHRIST”...?
1. Do we consider our “standing” before others (whatever that may be) something to be held on to?
2. Do we consider ourselves more important than others, and consider that distinction
something to be preserved at all costs? -- If so, then we lack “The Mind Of Christ”!
[As we continue to read on in our text, we see also that “The Mind Of Christ”...]
II. LOOKED OUT FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS (7-8)
A. WHEN CHRIST BECAME FLESH...
1. He “made Himself of no reputation”
a. Some versions say “emptied Himself”
b. He divested Himself of the “glory” He had with the Father - cf. Jn 17:5
2. He took upon Himself “the form of a servant”
a. He did not come as a “king”, “nobleman”, etc.
b. But as the lowly son of a simple carpenter
3. He came “in the likeness of men”
a. As such, He could experience their temptations and sufferings - He 2:14,17-18; 4:15;5:7
b. In other words, though deity, He was truly “man” (not some sort of “superman”)
4. He “humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of
the cross”
a. Consider He 5:8
b. Though in every way a man like you or me (while still the Son of God), He humbled
Himself and obediently suffered and died on the cross!
-- Why did Jesus do all this?
B. HE DID IT ALL FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS...!
1. He became man, humbled himself as a man, was obedient, and then died on the cross - because it was in our own best interest!
2. He did it, to bear our reproach - cf. Ro 15:1-3; Is 53:4-6
3. Yes, He was looking out for our interests!
C. DO WE HAVE “THE MIND OF CHRIST”...?
1. We do, if we are looking out for the interests of others
2. We do, if we are willing to humble ourselves, even sacrifice ourselves if it be in the best interests of others - cf. 1 Jn 3:16
[Such is “The Mind Of Christ”, one of humility and service to others; but it is also one that is...]
III. HIGHLY EXALTED BY GOD (9-11)
A. IN THE CASE OF JESUS...
1. He is a good example of the Scriptural maxim: “He that humbles himself shall be
exalted”
2. For God has highly exalted Jesus in two ways:
a. In the present - by giving Him “the name which is above every name” (the name by
which men must be saved - Ac 4:12)
b. In the future - that at His name “every knee should bow...that every tongue should
confess” He is Lord! - Re 5:11-14
B. BUT ALSO IN OUR CASE...
1. Those who possess “The Mind Of Christ” will participate in that great future exaltation of Christ! - cf. Ro 8:16-18; 2 Th 1:10-12
2. Isn’t this a wonderful motivation for us to have “The Mind Of Christ”?
CONCLUSION
1. We have seen in this passage that “The Mind Of Christ” involves...
a. Humility
b. Obedience
c. Sacrifice
d. Great Reward
2. Do we possess “The Mind Of Christ”? We should, for it is the “key” to:
a. The unity that produces joy!
b. One day sharing in “glory” together with Christ!
3. As Christians, let’s be diligent to manifest “The Mind Of Christ” in our relationship to God and to each other
If you are not a Christian, why not begin possessing “The Mind of Christ” by following His example of humble obedience to the Will of God...
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Chapter 2 study guide
The Epistle To The Philippians- Chapter Two
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To appreciate the importance of unity, and how it can be maintained by following Jesus' example of humility
2) To understand what is involved in "shining as lights in the world"
SUMMARY
The first chapter included an exhortation to stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel (1:27). Paul continues with the call for unity, providing reasons why we should desire unity, the nature of our unity, and attitudes necessary to maintain unity (1-4). Stressing the need
for humility and sacrificial service towards others, Paul appeals to the example of Christ and expounds upon how far Christ was willing to go to save us (5-11).
He continues with another exhortation to "shine as lights in the world" as they work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. Doing all things without complaining and arguing, while holding fast the word of life, they will prove themselves to be children of God in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. This will also prove to Paul that his labors have not been in vain, and any
persecution he endures is viewed as a sacrifice in the service of their faith and a cause for mutual rejoicing (12-18).
He then writes of his plans pertaining to Timothy and Epaphroditus. He will send Timothy shortly, that he might know of their condition. But Epaphroditus is coming at once in order to set their hearts at ease about Epaphroditus' brush with death due to a recent illness (19-30).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATION TO UNITY (1-11)
A. THE MOTIVATION FOR UNITY (1)
1. The consolation we have in Christ
2. The comfort found in love
3. The fellowship we have in the Spirit
4. The affection and mercy we can enjoy
B. THE NATURE OF UNITY (2)
1. Being of like mind, having the same love
2. Of one accord, of one mind
C. ATTITUDES FOR MAINTAINING UNITY (3-5)
1. Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit (3a)
2. With lowliness of mind let each one esteem others better than himself (3b)
3. Be concerned for the interest of others (4)
4. Let the mind that was in Christ be in you (5)
D. JESUS AS AN EXAMPLE OF UNSELFISH HUMILITY (6-11)
1. Though He was Deity, He was willing to come in the likeness of man (6-7)
2. As a man He humbled Himself in obedience to the point of dying on the cross (8)
3. Therefore God highly exalted Him so that at His name all should bow and confess Him to be Lord (9-11)
II. EXHORTATION TO SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (12-18)
A. BY WORKING OUT THEIR OWN SALVATION (12-13)
1. Doing so with fear and trembling (12)
2. Remembering that God is at work in them (13)
B. AS CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT (14-16)
1. Doing all things without murmuring and complaining (14)
2. Blameless and harmless in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation (15)
3. Holding fast the word of life, so that Paul may rejoice in the day of Christ (16)
C. VIEWING PAUL'S PERSECUTION AS A REASON TO REJOICE (17-18)
1. He views it as a "sacrifice", offered in the service of their faith (17a)
2. For this he is glad, and calls upon them to rejoice with him (17b-18)
III.PLANS INVOLVING TIMOTHY AND EPAPHRODITUS (19-30)
A. TO SEND TIMOTHY SOON (19-24)
1. That Paul might be encouraged when he learns of their condition (19)
2. His commendation of Timothy, as one who seeks the things of Christ, and who serves with Paul in the gospel as a son with his father (20-22)
3. He will be sent at once, as soon as Paul knows how things will go with him, and he himself hopes to come shortly (23-24)
B. TO SEND EPAPHRODITUS AT ONCE (25-30)
1. Because of his longing for them and his distress when they heard he was sick (25-27)
2. So he is coming that they might rejoice, and Paul himself will be less sorrowful (28)
3. Therefore receive him in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in high esteem for their sacrificial service to Christ and others (29-30)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortation to unity (1-11)
- Exhortation to shine as lights in the world (12-18)
- Plans involving Timothy and Epaphroditus (19-30)
2) What four things should serve as a motivation for unity? (1)
- The consolation we have in Christ
- The comfort found in love
- The fellowship we have in the Spirit
- The affection and mercy we can enjoy
3) What should be the nature of our unity? (2)
- Being of like mind, having the same love, of one accord, of one mind
4) What four things are necessary to maintain unity? (3-5)
- Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit
- With lowliness of mind let each one esteem others better than himself
- Be concerned for the interest of others
- Let the mind that was in Christ be in you
5) What is said about Christ that proves Him to be a prime example of humility? (5-8)
- Though in the form of God, He did not consider it "robbery" to be equal to God
- Made Himself of no reputation, becoming a servant and coming in the likeness of men
- He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of dying on the cross
6) Having been highly exalted, what should every person do at the name of Jesus? (9-11)
- Every knee should bow
- Every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord
7) What did Paul want his beloved brethren to do in his absence? (12)
- To work out their own salvation with fear and trembling
8) What is said about God working in the Christian? (13)
- He works in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure
9) What two things are necessary if we are to be children of God without fault, harmless and blameless, shining as lights in the world? (14-16)
- Do all things without murmuring and disputing
- Hold fast the word of life
10) How did Paul view his imprisonment? (17)
- As being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of their faith
- As a reason to be glad and rejoice
11) What two things are said about Timothy? (20, 22)
- Paul had no one like-minded, who would sincerely care their state
- He had proven character, having served with Paul in the gospel as a son with his father
12) How does Paul describe Epaphroditus? (23)
- A brother, a fellow worker and fellow soldier, their messenger, and the one who ministered to Paul's need!
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To appreciate the importance of unity, and how it can be maintained by following Jesus' example of humility
2) To understand what is involved in "shining as lights in the world"
SUMMARY
The first chapter included an exhortation to stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel (1:27). Paul continues with the call for unity, providing reasons why we should desire unity, the nature of our unity, and attitudes necessary to maintain unity (1-4). Stressing the need
for humility and sacrificial service towards others, Paul appeals to the example of Christ and expounds upon how far Christ was willing to go to save us (5-11).
He continues with another exhortation to "shine as lights in the world" as they work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. Doing all things without complaining and arguing, while holding fast the word of life, they will prove themselves to be children of God in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. This will also prove to Paul that his labors have not been in vain, and any
persecution he endures is viewed as a sacrifice in the service of their faith and a cause for mutual rejoicing (12-18).
He then writes of his plans pertaining to Timothy and Epaphroditus. He will send Timothy shortly, that he might know of their condition. But Epaphroditus is coming at once in order to set their hearts at ease about Epaphroditus' brush with death due to a recent illness (19-30).
OUTLINE
I. EXHORTATION TO UNITY (1-11)
A. THE MOTIVATION FOR UNITY (1)
1. The consolation we have in Christ
2. The comfort found in love
3. The fellowship we have in the Spirit
4. The affection and mercy we can enjoy
B. THE NATURE OF UNITY (2)
1. Being of like mind, having the same love
2. Of one accord, of one mind
C. ATTITUDES FOR MAINTAINING UNITY (3-5)
1. Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit (3a)
2. With lowliness of mind let each one esteem others better than himself (3b)
3. Be concerned for the interest of others (4)
4. Let the mind that was in Christ be in you (5)
D. JESUS AS AN EXAMPLE OF UNSELFISH HUMILITY (6-11)
1. Though He was Deity, He was willing to come in the likeness of man (6-7)
2. As a man He humbled Himself in obedience to the point of dying on the cross (8)
3. Therefore God highly exalted Him so that at His name all should bow and confess Him to be Lord (9-11)
II. EXHORTATION TO SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (12-18)
A. BY WORKING OUT THEIR OWN SALVATION (12-13)
1. Doing so with fear and trembling (12)
2. Remembering that God is at work in them (13)
B. AS CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT (14-16)
1. Doing all things without murmuring and complaining (14)
2. Blameless and harmless in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation (15)
3. Holding fast the word of life, so that Paul may rejoice in the day of Christ (16)
C. VIEWING PAUL'S PERSECUTION AS A REASON TO REJOICE (17-18)
1. He views it as a "sacrifice", offered in the service of their faith (17a)
2. For this he is glad, and calls upon them to rejoice with him (17b-18)
III.PLANS INVOLVING TIMOTHY AND EPAPHRODITUS (19-30)
A. TO SEND TIMOTHY SOON (19-24)
1. That Paul might be encouraged when he learns of their condition (19)
2. His commendation of Timothy, as one who seeks the things of Christ, and who serves with Paul in the gospel as a son with his father (20-22)
3. He will be sent at once, as soon as Paul knows how things will go with him, and he himself hopes to come shortly (23-24)
B. TO SEND EPAPHRODITUS AT ONCE (25-30)
1. Because of his longing for them and his distress when they heard he was sick (25-27)
2. So he is coming that they might rejoice, and Paul himself will be less sorrowful (28)
3. Therefore receive him in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in high esteem for their sacrificial service to Christ and others (29-30)
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Exhortation to unity (1-11)
- Exhortation to shine as lights in the world (12-18)
- Plans involving Timothy and Epaphroditus (19-30)
2) What four things should serve as a motivation for unity? (1)
- The consolation we have in Christ
- The comfort found in love
- The fellowship we have in the Spirit
- The affection and mercy we can enjoy
3) What should be the nature of our unity? (2)
- Being of like mind, having the same love, of one accord, of one mind
4) What four things are necessary to maintain unity? (3-5)
- Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit
- With lowliness of mind let each one esteem others better than himself
- Be concerned for the interest of others
- Let the mind that was in Christ be in you
5) What is said about Christ that proves Him to be a prime example of humility? (5-8)
- Though in the form of God, He did not consider it "robbery" to be equal to God
- Made Himself of no reputation, becoming a servant and coming in the likeness of men
- He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of dying on the cross
6) Having been highly exalted, what should every person do at the name of Jesus? (9-11)
- Every knee should bow
- Every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord
7) What did Paul want his beloved brethren to do in his absence? (12)
- To work out their own salvation with fear and trembling
8) What is said about God working in the Christian? (13)
- He works in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure
9) What two things are necessary if we are to be children of God without fault, harmless and blameless, shining as lights in the world? (14-16)
- Do all things without murmuring and disputing
- Hold fast the word of life
10) How did Paul view his imprisonment? (17)
- As being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of their faith
- As a reason to be glad and rejoice
11) What two things are said about Timothy? (20, 22)
- Paul had no one like-minded, who would sincerely care their state
- He had proven character, having served with Paul in the gospel as a son with his father
12) How does Paul describe Epaphroditus? (23)
- A brother, a fellow worker and fellow soldier, their messenger, and the one who ministered to Paul's need!
The Unity That Produces Joy- Philippians 2:1-4
The Unity That Produces Joy- Philippians 2:1-4
INTRODUCTION
1. At this point in his epistle to the Philippians, Paul is exhorting his brethren in regards to Christian living
2. In the previous section, we notice that he encouraged them to manifest “Conduct Worthy Of The Gospel” - Ph 1:27-30
3. In our text for this study, Paul exhorts them to manifest “The Unity That Produces Joy” - Ph 2:1-4
4. In doing so, Paul describes three aspects of such unity:
a. The motivation for having unity that produces joy (1)
b. The nature of unity that produces joy (2)
c. The attitudes required for unity that produces joy (3,4)
[As we begin, let’s carefully consider Paul’s description of...]
I. THE “MOTIVATION” FOR HAVING UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (1)
A. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “CONSOLATION IN CHRIST”...?
1. When Paul says “if there is any consolation...”, he is not doubting that there is
a. This is a common use of the conditional “if...then” where given the reality of the “if” clause, “then” a point should naturally follow
b. For example, consider Ga 3:29...
1) Where Paul wrote “If you are Christ’s, then...”
2) The “if” does not suggest doubt that they could be Christ’s for in the previous verse he said that they were!
c. In such cases, the “if” means the same thing as “since”
2. Indeed, there is much consolation (comfort) to be found in Christ!
a. As expressed to the brethren at Thessalonica, there is consolation from Christ in “every good word and work” - 2 Th 2:16-17
b. And as written to the Corinthians, such consolation abounds even in the midst of
tribulation - 2 Co 1:3-5
B. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “COMFORT OF LOVE”...?
1. Do we not enjoy any comfort that comes from love?
2. Does not the love that comes from God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, and even our brethren provide any comfort? - again, cf. 2 Co 1:3-5
3. Indeed, it does to those who will receive it!
C. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “FELLOWSHIP OF THE SPIRIT”...?
1. Indeed, all who have been baptized into Christ has received the gift of the Holy Spirit - Ac 2:38-39; 5:32
2. As the church (the temple of God), the Spirit dwells in us - 1 Co 3:16
3. Even our individual bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit - 1 Co 6:19
4. Not only by the Spirit have we all been baptized into one body, but have all been made to drink of the one Spirit - 1 Co 12:13; cf. Jn 7:37-39
5. Indeed there is a true “communion of the Holy Spirit” available for Christians - 2 Co 13:14
D. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “AFFECTION AND MERCY”...?
1. There is the “affection” that comes from Jesus and from other brethren - e.g., Ph 1:8
2. There is the “mercy” that comes from our loving Father in heaven - Ep 2:4-7
[Enjoying all these benefits, should they not serve to encourage us to have “the unity that produces joy”? It certainly moved Paul to write and encourage the Philippians toward this “unity”! But exactly what kind of unity is it that produces joy...?]
II. THE “NATURE” OF THE UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (2)
A. IT INVOLVES “BEING LIKE-MINDED”...
1. Which means to “think the same thing”
2. That this is a necessary quality of unity is evident from Paul’s comments in 1 Co 1:10
B. IT INVOLVES “HAVING THE SAME LOVE”...
1. This is a natural consequence if we are first “like-minded”
2. Having the same love, we will love:
a. The same things, in matters pertaining to Christ and His church!
b. One another with the same kind of love
1) Our love for one another will be of the same kind: sincere, fervent, and from a pure heart - 1 Pe 1:23
2) Our love for one another will be mutual, not one-sided, as is often the case
C. IT INVOLVES “BEING OF ONE ACCORD”...
1. Literally, “of one soul; having your souls joined together”
2. It suggests acting together as if one soul is driving them
3. Therefore, working together in complete harmony, not as separate entities going our separate ways
D. IT INVOLVES BEING “OF ONE MIND”...
1. The NASV says “intent on one purpose”
2. Not only working together outwardly, but inwardly, having the same purpose and intentions
[When such conditions exist in a local congregation, then the “unity that produces joy” will be fully experienced! But what are the attitudes required for having such unity?]
III. THE “ATTITUDES” REQUIRED FOR THE UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (3,4)
A. “LET NOTHING BE DONE THROUGH SELFISH AMBITION OR CONCEIT”...
1. First, it is necessary to point out those attitudes we should NOT have!
2. Possessing these attitudes will destroy unity
a. For both involve “self-centered” attitude
b. Rather than a “Christ-centered” attitude
3. Therefore, it is required that we rid ourselves of:
a. The desire for exalting self (“selfish ambition”)
b. The improper estimation of self (“conceit”)
4. In place of these, we should substitute...
B. “LOWLINESS OF MIND”...
1. In other words, humility
2. This will effectively replace the problem of “conceit”
3. Humility should be easy to maintain if we remember our own faults
C. “LET EACH ESTEEM OTHERS BETTER THAN HIMSELF”...
1. This should be easy for us to do...
a. For we are aware of our own defects, but we do not have the same clear view of the
defects of others
b. We can only see their outward conduct; in our case, we can look within
c. We see our own hearts, with all its faults; we cannot so look into the hearts of others
2. In writing to the brethren at Rome, Paul exhorted them to outdo one another in this regard - “in honor giving preference to one another” - Ro 12:10b
D. “LOOK OUT...FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS”...
1. This attitude eliminates the problem of “selfish ambition”
2. It is the attitude of maturity and was the attitude of Christ! - Ro 15:1-3
3. So it should be the attitude of every Christian!
CONCLUSION
1. These attitudes are essential if we are going to have “The Unity That Produces Joy”!
2. This is not to suggest that these attitudes alone will bring about such unity...
a. For “The Unity That Produces Joy” comes only when it is unity based upon the truths Jesus taught
b. These attitudes without that truth will only produce a false sense of joy
c. But without these attitudes, holding to the truth itself will not give us the joy we seek!
Therefore, let us “fulfill our joy” by making sure that we manifest these attitudes as we attempt to live according to the truth that is in Jesus!
INTRODUCTION
1. At this point in his epistle to the Philippians, Paul is exhorting his brethren in regards to Christian living
2. In the previous section, we notice that he encouraged them to manifest “Conduct Worthy Of The Gospel” - Ph 1:27-30
3. In our text for this study, Paul exhorts them to manifest “The Unity That Produces Joy” - Ph 2:1-4
4. In doing so, Paul describes three aspects of such unity:
a. The motivation for having unity that produces joy (1)
b. The nature of unity that produces joy (2)
c. The attitudes required for unity that produces joy (3,4)
[As we begin, let’s carefully consider Paul’s description of...]
I. THE “MOTIVATION” FOR HAVING UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (1)
A. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “CONSOLATION IN CHRIST”...?
1. When Paul says “if there is any consolation...”, he is not doubting that there is
a. This is a common use of the conditional “if...then” where given the reality of the “if” clause, “then” a point should naturally follow
b. For example, consider Ga 3:29...
1) Where Paul wrote “If you are Christ’s, then...”
2) The “if” does not suggest doubt that they could be Christ’s for in the previous verse he said that they were!
c. In such cases, the “if” means the same thing as “since”
2. Indeed, there is much consolation (comfort) to be found in Christ!
a. As expressed to the brethren at Thessalonica, there is consolation from Christ in “every good word and work” - 2 Th 2:16-17
b. And as written to the Corinthians, such consolation abounds even in the midst of
tribulation - 2 Co 1:3-5
B. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “COMFORT OF LOVE”...?
1. Do we not enjoy any comfort that comes from love?
2. Does not the love that comes from God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, and even our brethren provide any comfort? - again, cf. 2 Co 1:3-5
3. Indeed, it does to those who will receive it!
C. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “FELLOWSHIP OF THE SPIRIT”...?
1. Indeed, all who have been baptized into Christ has received the gift of the Holy Spirit - Ac 2:38-39; 5:32
2. As the church (the temple of God), the Spirit dwells in us - 1 Co 3:16
3. Even our individual bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit - 1 Co 6:19
4. Not only by the Spirit have we all been baptized into one body, but have all been made to drink of the one Spirit - 1 Co 12:13; cf. Jn 7:37-39
5. Indeed there is a true “communion of the Holy Spirit” available for Christians - 2 Co 13:14
D. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY “AFFECTION AND MERCY”...?
1. There is the “affection” that comes from Jesus and from other brethren - e.g., Ph 1:8
2. There is the “mercy” that comes from our loving Father in heaven - Ep 2:4-7
[Enjoying all these benefits, should they not serve to encourage us to have “the unity that produces joy”? It certainly moved Paul to write and encourage the Philippians toward this “unity”! But exactly what kind of unity is it that produces joy...?]
II. THE “NATURE” OF THE UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (2)
A. IT INVOLVES “BEING LIKE-MINDED”...
1. Which means to “think the same thing”
2. That this is a necessary quality of unity is evident from Paul’s comments in 1 Co 1:10
B. IT INVOLVES “HAVING THE SAME LOVE”...
1. This is a natural consequence if we are first “like-minded”
2. Having the same love, we will love:
a. The same things, in matters pertaining to Christ and His church!
b. One another with the same kind of love
1) Our love for one another will be of the same kind: sincere, fervent, and from a pure heart - 1 Pe 1:23
2) Our love for one another will be mutual, not one-sided, as is often the case
C. IT INVOLVES “BEING OF ONE ACCORD”...
1. Literally, “of one soul; having your souls joined together”
2. It suggests acting together as if one soul is driving them
3. Therefore, working together in complete harmony, not as separate entities going our separate ways
D. IT INVOLVES BEING “OF ONE MIND”...
1. The NASV says “intent on one purpose”
2. Not only working together outwardly, but inwardly, having the same purpose and intentions
[When such conditions exist in a local congregation, then the “unity that produces joy” will be fully experienced! But what are the attitudes required for having such unity?]
III. THE “ATTITUDES” REQUIRED FOR THE UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (3,4)
A. “LET NOTHING BE DONE THROUGH SELFISH AMBITION OR CONCEIT”...
1. First, it is necessary to point out those attitudes we should NOT have!
2. Possessing these attitudes will destroy unity
a. For both involve “self-centered” attitude
b. Rather than a “Christ-centered” attitude
3. Therefore, it is required that we rid ourselves of:
a. The desire for exalting self (“selfish ambition”)
b. The improper estimation of self (“conceit”)
4. In place of these, we should substitute...
B. “LOWLINESS OF MIND”...
1. In other words, humility
2. This will effectively replace the problem of “conceit”
3. Humility should be easy to maintain if we remember our own faults
C. “LET EACH ESTEEM OTHERS BETTER THAN HIMSELF”...
1. This should be easy for us to do...
a. For we are aware of our own defects, but we do not have the same clear view of the
defects of others
b. We can only see their outward conduct; in our case, we can look within
c. We see our own hearts, with all its faults; we cannot so look into the hearts of others
2. In writing to the brethren at Rome, Paul exhorted them to outdo one another in this regard - “in honor giving preference to one another” - Ro 12:10b
D. “LOOK OUT...FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS”...
1. This attitude eliminates the problem of “selfish ambition”
2. It is the attitude of maturity and was the attitude of Christ! - Ro 15:1-3
3. So it should be the attitude of every Christian!
CONCLUSION
1. These attitudes are essential if we are going to have “The Unity That Produces Joy”!
2. This is not to suggest that these attitudes alone will bring about such unity...
a. For “The Unity That Produces Joy” comes only when it is unity based upon the truths Jesus taught
b. These attitudes without that truth will only produce a false sense of joy
c. But without these attitudes, holding to the truth itself will not give us the joy we seek!
Therefore, let us “fulfill our joy” by making sure that we manifest these attitudes as we attempt to live according to the truth that is in Jesus!
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