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.

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

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”!

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?

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...

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!

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!