Paul closes his letter with gratitude and a tone of contentment.
Gratitude is always well received.
God alone is what we need- our source of contentment.
Hardship does not create discontentment, but rather reveals what is already in the heart.
Find contentment in Christ.
Contentment is something everyone longs for, but it doesn’t manifest according to situations.
Lord Jesus, may I find my identity and contentment in you.
Paul encourages two women in this church to repair their strained relationship.
Real churches still have real problems.
God alone is our peace.
It’s easy to be at odds with others.
“…dwell on these things.”
Focusing on the good things sure helps put life in perspective.
Father, thank you for your goodness.
Paul focuses the attention of the church toward the goal- Jesus enthroned and proclaimed.
Paul points out bad examples and good examples .
God transforms all who submit to his authority.
Mankind is creative in their sin. Some even attempt to justify it.
Learn from examples- both good and bad.
Eternal perspective is very helpful- particularly in the middle of hardship.
Father, thank you for your heavenly promises based on the finished work of Christ.
Paul lays out his impressive religious pedigree and then says it is all worthless garbage compared to knowing Christ.
Paul’s pedigree was very impressive to the original hearers/readers.
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is of the highest importance.
Men like to brag because their identity is wrapped up in their accomplishments.
My identity is in Christ alone.
Great conversation here in how the most important accomplishments are meaningless compared to knowing Christ.
Lord Jesus, thank you that my identity is wrapped up in you!
Paul hopes this church will welcome his friends and co-laborers in the gospel.
This is a very practical section. Paul is not always welcome in churches but he wants his younger friends to have.
The gospel message is more important than health or safety.
There are genuine risks that are beyond our control.
Take godly risks when the Holy Spirit gives the green light.
There are always Christ-followers who are suffering for one reason or another. This could be of great encouragement.
Father, give wisdom so I will know when to risk and when not to risk.
We are to follow Jesus’ goodness and humility to shine brightly in a dark world.
This is a big challenge for the people to be on mission where God has planted them.
God is pure and to. be worshipped in purity.
Obedience does not happen on accident.
Shine!
The “shine like stars” analogy is strong here- great conversation.
Lord Jesus, you are my light! Help my face be pointed toward you so I can shine for your glory.
Paul encourages the church to imitate the humility of Jesus.
The counter-cultural idea of humility of Jesus & Christianity is a common thread of Paul’s theology and writings.
Jesus could have have chosen any posture and he chose humility.
Humility is not displayed on accident.
Imitate the humility of Jesus.
This entire hymn (v.5-11 is an excellent description of Jesus as the suffering servant.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your humility.
Paul is content to live or die- but will remain faithful to Jesus and his message no matter what.
Paul seems to want to share his contentment.
God is THE treasure, worth everything.
Not walking with Christ a person could be sidetracked by hardship.
Always find ultimate contentment in Christ.
There are always Christ-followers who are suffering for one reason or another. This could be of great encouragement.
Lord Jesus, I treasure you most.
Paul opens his letter to the church of Philippi by thanking God for them and underlining his passion for the advancement of the Gospel.
Paul’s tone is joyful and encouraging even though he is dealing with hardships himself.
The Gospel is the most important message ever.
Sometimes our motives are shady.
Be glad when the Gospel is preached. God can use unlikely vessels to carry his work.
There will always be not-so-great examples- even in the church…even in leadership…even reading this post. God can redeem and use anyone.
Father, thank your your perfecting power and the peace you give that doesn’t make sense to outsiders.
