Philippians 2:1-4
- Chapter 2 starts with “therefore.” When we see these types of key words, we should examine what is referenced. In this case, then end of chapter 1 we read that not only are we called to believe in Christ but also to suffer for him. So, as we endure suffering for Christ, we find encouragement in Him. We find comfort in his love. We all undergo times of trials, discouragement, and heartbreak. Unlike the world, who have no eternal hope, we have a source of sustenance that supports us through hard times. In Christ, when we endure suffering, we have hope in Christ.
- How can we access the love, strength and comfort of Christ during times of hardship?
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16
- Paul calls the people of Philippi to unity. Unity and uniformity are not the same thing. Paul calls the people to unity of thought, love and purpose. It is possible to be unified in Christ and disagree on other topics. The disciples were a collection of Jewish men from many different walks of life. Fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots followed Jesus and were unified in their purpose and devotion to him. We can easily think that all Christians should look and sound the same, but so long as we are unified in our love of Christ and our purpose in Him, what we wear, our personal preferences, musical tastes, or hairstyle are secondary. Unity requires work. We must work to pursue unity in the body of Christ.
- How do Paul’s goals match up with our own? How can we shift our focus from personal gain to godly gain?
So then, let us pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another. Romans 14:19
- Paul asks us to consider others as more important than ourselves. In our self-first culture, this is almost impossible to even consider. We are taught that truth is self-centered. We are taught that our feelings should guide our actions. The world we live in has completely eschewed humility and self-sacrifice. Humility and other-centric thinking may be the most controversial idea we have as Christians in the modern world. In order to think of others first, we must know them. As believers, we have to inject ourselves into the world around us, not isolate or insulate ourselves from people in pain. We cannot think of others first if we don’t even know who they are.
- Do I really know the people around me on a Sunday morning? Do I know my neighbors? What are they hoping for and what do they need?
“Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,” – Colossians 3:12
Life Application: Look around you. How many people that you come in contact with do you know well? Are you engaged in the life of your church, your neighbors, and your family? Make a point to ask real questions of people and listen as they answer. This is the first step in humility.
For Prayer: Pray for international students and workers in Orlando that are far from home and looking for community. Pray for our partner, Agape Source, as they reach out with hospitality and the gospel.