FOCUS IN PHILIPPIANS

FOCUS IN PHILIPPIANS:
1. What is the primary objective of Paul in the book of Philippians? (Philippians 4:8)
I have chosen “FOCUS IN PHILIPPIANS” as the title for my devotional commentary on this great book of the Bible. I have chosen this title because the word “focus” seems to sum up Paul’s message in this book. In this book, Christ is the center of Paul’s focus. In each chapter we are exhorted to focus on Christ, in some particular way.
In chapter one Paul tells us that we should focus on Christ as the PURPOSE OF OUR LIFE (key verse: 1:21).
In chapter two He tells us to focus on Christ as the PATTERN OF OUR LIFE (key verse: 2:5).
In chapter three Paul tells us to focus on Christ as the PRIZE OF OUR LIFE (key verse 3:14).
and,
In chapter four the apostle tells us to focus on Christ as the POWER OF OUR LIFE (key verse 4:13).
This book may be the most encouraging of all the letters written by the apostle Paul. I know of no letter that points its readers to Christ more than epistle of Paul. The saying, “big things come in small packages” certainly applies to this book of the Bible. Some call it the epistle of “joy” because of the many references to this theme throughout the book.
I do believe that our Lord wants us to experience the “fulness of joy” in Christ, otherwise He would not have said so. Ponder the following references that emphasize this teaching.
Psalm 16:11 (AMP) You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore. [Acts 2:25-28; Acts 2:31]
John 15:11 (AMP) I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing.
Think about it! Jesus became a “man of sorrows” as He took our sorrows with Him on the Cross, so that we could experience the “fulness of Joy” as we walk in “newness of life” “in Christ.” (see Isaiah 53:3-6)
Of course it is not an automatic thing that we experience this joy on a daily basis. There are thieves that would love to rob us of enjoying our relationship with God in its fulness. Paul actually deals with four thieves in this letter. Warren Wiersbe has pointed out these thieves in his little book, “Be Joyful.”
In chapter one there is the thief of CIRCUMSTANCES, and the way to overcome it is to have the attitude of Philippians 1:21 which says, “to me to live is Christ; and to die is gain.”
In chapter two the thief is PEOPLE, and the way to overcome it is found in Philippians 2:4-5, by becoming ministry focused and to have the mind of Christ.
In chapter three the thief is THINGS, and the way to overcome this thief is to change our thinking about things, and count all things other than Christ, but dung that you may be drawn closer to Christ.
The final thief that Paul speaks about is WORRY, and Paul tells us the remedy for this in Philippians 4:6-7.
It is all about FOCUS really. That is why I think the key verse the whole epistle could be Philippians 4:8.
Philippians 4:8 (KJV) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
In our next devotion we will look at each of these things that Paul tells us to focus on in more detail.
Dear Lord, Help all of your people today to be FOCUSED on those things that draw us into a closer walk and relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord. There are many things that can distract us, and Satan knows what buttons to push and what obstacles to put in our path to hinder us from fully enjoying the Lord. If Paul could be in prison, which would not be pleasant conditions and still experience the joy of the Lord, then we surely can too. God, help us to let go of the things that don’t really matter so that we can have a firm grip upon the only real thing that does matter, which is our enjoyment of our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ! Amen.
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2. What things should I “focus” my attention on in order to continually experience the “fulness of Joy” that God wants me to have “in Christ?” (Philippians 4:8)
Philippians 4:8 (KJV) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
My comments today are a continuation of my thoughts from yesterdays thoughts on the book of Philippians as a whole. In Philippians 4:8 Paul tells us what we should focus our thoughts on. Paul mentions seven things that he tells us to “think on” or “meditate on” (NKJV). The word “think” or “meditate” is the key to understanding this verse. William Barclay says:
“…it is a law of life that, if a man thinks of something often enough and long enough, he will come to the stagewhen he cannot stop thinking about it. His thoughts will be quite literally in a groove out of which he cannot jerk them.”
(1) Focus your thoughts upon things that are TRUE.
Paul is talking about things that are true and genuine. Many things in the world appear to be true, but they are not; they are false, deceptive, misguided, corrupt, or fabricated. They seem to offer peace, but what they offer is a counterfeit peace, a temporary escape. Therefore, keep your mind on things that are real and genuine. If you do this, you will live a life that is true to both men and God.
John 17:17 (AMP) Sanctify them [purify, consecrate, separate them for Yourself, make them holy] by the Truth; Your Word is TRUTH.
(2) Focus your thoughts upon things that are NOBLE.
This means thoughts that are honorable, worthy, revered, and highly respected. Many things in this world are imitations, passing fads, or role models that appear respectable or praiseworthy. In reality, though, they are destructive and disgraceful. They will harm you and eventually bring you down. So set your mind on things that are serious, responsible, and honorable–things that are noble.
Acts 17:11 (KJV)These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
In this verse in Acts, Paul is commending the Bereans for being more “noble” than those at Thessalonica, because they searched the scriptures to find out for themselves if Paul was teaching and preaching according to scripture. This passage teaches us that only as we “renew our minds” with God’s Word (Romans 12:1-2) can we be “noble” in mind.
(3) Focus your thoughts on things that are JUST.
To be JUST means to do what is right, to behave righteously, in this case toward man and toward God. Be a responsible citizen while on earth. A mind filled with just and righteous thoughts will live righteously and know peace.
Isaiah 32:17 (AMP) And the effect of righteousness will be peace [internal and external], and the result of righteousness will be quietness and confident trust forever.
to be continued in tomorrows devotion
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3. Where should I focus my thoughts? (Philippians 4:8)
(4) Focus your thoughts on things that are PURE.
It means to avoid that which is filthy, and focus on that which is pure. In order to focus on that which is pure we must focus on Christ, who is the best example of purity we have. He came to earth as a man, to dwell among men, and experience all the trials, and temptations that men face in this world. He identified with our struggles in every way, with one exception. Jesus never one time yielded to temptation. He never one time sinned. There was not even in Christ an inkling of an urge to sin. This is what Jesus meant when He said, “I will not talk with you much more, for the prince (evil genius, ruler) of the world is coming. And he has no claim on Me. [He has nothing in common with Me; there is nothing in Me that belongs to him, and he has no power over Me.]” (John 14:30 AMP)
I am so glad this was so, for otherwise none of us could have any hope of victory over sin. We can have victory over sin, because Jesus conquered it for us. It is because of Him we are made righteous upon believing (2 Cor 5:21), and it is because of living in Him and Him living in us that we can “be pure, even as He is pure” (1 John 3:3).
(5) Focus your thoughts upon things that are LOVELY.
Our thoughts should not be unkind, critical, or reactionary. Instead, they should be focused on things that are LOVELY. When we do this we will be more prone to build people up, rather than tear them down. The more time we spend with the one who is described as, “the altogether lovely one” will cause this characteristic to flow naturally from us, rather than something that is merely forced, as though we are merely doing this against our will (Song of Solomon 5:16; Matthew 11:28-30).
Song of Solomon 5:16 His mouth is most sweet: yea, HE IS ALTOGETHER LOVELY. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.
Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG) “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. 29 Walk with me and work with me–watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. 30 Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
(6) Focus your thoughts upon things that are OF GOOD REPORT.
Where this phrase is used elsewhere by Paul we are instructed to live a life that is becoming of our calling in Christ. Here Paul is saying that when we see this admirable quality in others we should desire to emulate it in ourselves. The prase “good report” means to “be well spoken of” before others. When we see a life that is of “good report” it is the life of Christ. In so far as I live this way I can say along with Paul, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Cor 11:1). The only way any of us can live a life that will be “well spoken of” by those in and outside the body of Christ, is to “walk by faith” (Hebrews 11:2,39) as we walk with Christ, under the Spirit’s control (Gal 5:22-24).
The final two phrases, “if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” is to me not another quality, but is Paul’s way of telling us that the six qualities mentioned above are not a complete list of the qualities of Christ that we should desire in our life, but are without a doubt, a good place for us all to start. Paul now says, any quality that that would bring honor to God in the way Christ did, we should desire to be in our life as well. Teh word “virtue” means moral excellence, and there was only one that ever lived up to this. Though none of us are perfect in practice now, nor shall we be, until we go to be with Chirst, but this should nevertheless be what we should strive for, as we yield our lives to the control of Jesus Christ, our Master and Lord.
Dear Lord, I pray as this wonderul book of Philippians is unfolded before our eyes, that you work work in each of your people these qualities that give honor and glory to you. These are the things you are working in each of us, so that as we practice them this salvation will be “worked out” in a practical way (Philippians 2:12-13). I know that each of us will be blessed in so far as we read and study your Word for the life-change that you promise to bring to us through a sincere study of it. In Jesus name, Amen.
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4. Who were the recipients of this letter? (Philippians 1:1-2)
Philippians 1:1-2 (ESV) Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
In the early church, elders (or overseers; or bishops) usually provided spiritual leadership, while deacons attended to practical matters (see 1 Tim 3: 1- 13). There were no professional pastors or priests as there are today (cp. 1 Cor 14: 26- 31). [Study notes in NLT Bible]
There were only these three groups in the church—saints, bishops, and deacons. If there had been a clergyman in charge, Paul would have mentioned him also. Instead he speaks only of bishops (plural) and deacons (also plural). Here we have a remarkable picture of the simplicity of church life in the early days. The saints are mentioned first, then their spiritual guides, and last their temporal servants. That is all! [Believers Bible Commentary]
One thing that I observe here in this text that I consider of great significance is that Paul is addressing this letter to “all the saints” first and foremost. Regardless of what our title may be as to our position of service in the church, we are all saints, “in Christ” first. If Paul intended for this letter to be read only by the spiritual leaders and then have them interpret for the rest of the flock, then he would have addressed it to the leaders only, and then give instructions to them about what they should do. I truly believe the Christian church should be grateful for men like William Tyndale, and others who labored to have the Bible written in the common language of every day ordinary people. I am not saying that it won’t be messy at times as many read their own thoughts and ideas into the bible and don’t follow any common sense rules for interpreting scripture. But, even though this is true, the idea that only the clergy has the right or ability to tell the saints what to believe, and that they must be told what to believe by the professional clergy is foreign to the scriptures the way I see it. We should always appreciate the gifted people that God has given to the church to help “equip the saints, for the work of the ministry” (Eph 4:11-12), but in the end each person is responsible to examine the scriptures, and determine in their own heart and mind, as the “Spirit of truth” that operates within them either confirms to their heart the truth of what is being said, or makes clear to them that what they are being told is not biblical truth at all (see Acts 17:11). I am thankful for the historic creeds that has been passed down through the years for the church today, in that good guidelines are given to us, that have been tested over time, that clarifies to us the essential truth’s of the Christian faith. I think any bible student would be wise before coming up with their own version of truth, or conclusions to certain passages of scripture, to compare their findings with these creeds or confessions of faith, so that they would not be prone to wander from the truth, but instead be firmly established in it.
Dear Lord, I do believe that you have commanded each of us to read and study the scriptures, and earnestly seek to know what your will is, so that we can walk with you on this spiritual journey in a way that brings you glory and honor. I thank you for the good men and women who have diligently studied the scriptures in the past and present and have left behind great works to read as Bible tools to help us in our study. You are an amazing God in that you have gone to great lengths to give us your revelation, so that we can live in accordance with your will. Help us all to love your truth today more than ever before and may that be what is the main focus of all our thoughts, as we navigate throughout each day on this earth. How else can we “redeem the time” as you so instruct us, if we don’t spend an adequate amount of time digging into the Word of God? In Jesus name, Amen.
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5. What level of cooperation does God want believer’s to have with other believer’s outside their own local assembly? (Philippians 1:3-6)
Philippians 1:3-6 (ESV) I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your PARTNERSHIP in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
I love Paul’s use of the word “partnership.” Some translations say “fellowship” and both words are correct. Partnership really resonates with me. In my spiritual pilgrimage, I have noticed how local churches tend get very competitive, and often are not interested it getting involved with other ministries if they are not guaranteed of some direct benefit for their local church. As I study scripture, I think God would have us all to be involved in “building God’s kingdom” as we seek to bring lost people to Christ. My primary objective should not be to “add people to my church.” I do want to see more people come to the church I attend obviously, but my concern should be to build God’s kingdom first, and be willing to “partner” with others who have this same passion for Christ. The Christian church would accomplish more for Christ, if we were more willing to see the bigger picture. If we don’t work together as “partners” in ministry, false religions will soon be the majority, and Christianity will have little or no voice at all in America. This has already happened in other parts of the world where Christianity once flourished. May God help us to partner with others for the greater glory of God, and good for all mankind. I know we must be not “partner” with those whose doctrine is unsound and not “gospel centered” but having said that, we still have lots of areas where we can partner with others, and see the gospel spread throughout our country and this world. Only as we cooperate with each other in this way will we ever see “the Church” storm the very “gates of hell” as more and more people are brought into God’s kingdom through the power of the gospel of Christ. Death’s grip must let go through the resurrection power of Christ.
Matthew 16:18 (MSG)…This is the rock on which I will put together my church, a church so expansive with energy that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out.
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6. How can I live my life on a higher plane? (Philippians 1:7-11)
Philippians 1:7-11 (ESV) It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Paul just finished telling us about his confidence in God’s work in and through his readers. He knew that the same God who saved them, would also keep them, until the day they would go to be with Christ. Now, Paul prays for these believers, to live a life of purity and to make choices that reflect a close walk with God.
In the Garden of Eden, there were two trees. There was the “tree of knowledge of good and evil.” Many today live there life this way. They think that their eternal destiny will be based on these choices. If they make more good choices that evil ones they think they will be just fine, in the end. That is not what salvation is about, nor is it what the Christian life is all about. I am not saying making good choices is not important, I am just saying that we can live life on a higher plane than that. Many of our choices may not be between something “good” and something “evil.” Sometimes our choices are between what is “good” and what is even “better” (Philippians 1:10) That is where things can get tricky. That is why we need to constantly feed on the “tree of life” which is Christ. The more we spend time in His presence the sharper our senses of “discernment” will be. I know what this is like when I try to do “good things” and “right things” without prayer. I might get through the day, and get by and even bless somebody else too, in the process. After all, if I share God’s Word with others and visit the sick etc. there will be some good that may come from that, but think of how much more would be accomplished if I do all these things in the strength of the Lord (Philippians 4:13; John 15:5). I really think that is what our Lord is talking about in John 15, when He tells us to “abide in the Vine.” The deeper our roots go down, the more nourishment we will receive, and while other plants are drying up from a drought, we will still flourish for God, because we will have dug in deep where moisture still resides. Let us therefore, not live our life on the lowest plane, when we can do better, and make better choices, instead of just good ones, and this will come from spending that quality time with Christ, our “tree of life.”
Dear Lord, Help me to not trust in my own strength today as I go and do as you command. I need you every minute of every day, so Lord, may my fellowship with you be so constant that I will be prepared for “every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). In Jesus, the name above all names, Amen!
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7. How can I have peace even when my circumstances are not very peaceful? (Philippians 1:12-30)
In an earlier study in this book, I mentioned that Paul teaches us in this book about the thieves that can rob us of our joy in Christ (John 15:11). The thief in chapter one is our CIRCUMSTANCES, and the way to overcome this is by having the attitude that Christ is the PURPOSE of my life (Philippians 1:21).
Philippians 1:21 (NIV) For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Paul was in prison, but this never kept him from his purpose, and the circumstance never caused him to lose His joy. Paul was so “gospel” focused that no circumstance could distract him from this mission. Six of the nine times the word “gospel” is mentioned in the book is found in this chapter. This is what Paul lived for. He was saved by the “gospel of Christ” and He called it the “power of God unto salvation, to everyone that believes” (Romans 1:16). The word “power” is the Greek word “dunamis” from which we get the english word DYNAMITE. Paul is telling us that the “gospel” is the dynamite of God. It is a life changer for everyone who believes. When a sinner believes in the Good News that Christ died for the sins of the world, and that sinner truly believes Christ died for them (Gal 2:20) that is the beginning of true life change, and real joy. That joy can get robbed from the believer through sin, as in the case of David (Psalm 51:10-12). Circumstances of life as well can rob us of our joy too, if we are not gospel focused, as was Paul. He was in prison, chained to Roman guards 24/7, yet He saw the good that came out of his bonds. He said other believers were encouraged in the faith, and even those chained Roman soldiers got witnessed to by Paul whether they liked it or not. This is the reason why palace guards eventually praised God. Paul was the message carrier of the gospel, and his chains gave him the opportunity to carry the gospel to such people. Sometimes our “attitude determines our altitude” and our “outlook, determines our outcome” in life, especially when we are gospel focused. Paul did not live for comfort, he lived for Christ. If we take this important verse that we highlighted for this devotion, and we substitute any other word than Christ, we would never be able to conclude that death is a gain. If I were to say for me to live is MONEY, then death would be to lose it all, but if my attitude is “for me to live is Christ” then death becomes our friend that ushers us into the greater undistracted, everlasting presence of Christ.
Dear Lord, I thank you for the peace and joy of knowing Christ as my Savior. I know I am not always as gospel focused as I should be, and to the degree that I am not I always lose a measure of that joy. On the other hand life is so much less stressful when I do not get “cumbered about many things,” but can say, “this one thing I do.” If this one thing is to be gospel focused and Christ focused I can live and abide in your joy. In Jesus name, Amen.
Psalm 73:25-28 (MSG) You’re all I want in heaven! You’re all I want on earth! 26 When my skin sags and my bones get brittle, GOD is rock-firm and faithful. 27 Look! Those who left you are falling apart! Deserters, they’ll never be heard from again. 28 But I’m in the very presence of God– oh, how refreshing it is! I’ve made Lord GOD my home. God, I’m telling the world what you do.
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8. What is one key ingredient that will help to maintain unity in the body of Christ (Philippians 2:1-11)
Philippians 2:5 (AMP) Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:]
This is one of my favorite sections of the whole Bible. The second thief that can rob us of our joy in the Lord is PEOPLE, if we allow them too. I have a picture of a coffee mug, with the following words on it. “I just love my job, its just the people I work with that I cannot stand.” This is describing a person that has a real problem. We must always keep in mind the only person we can have any real impact on is ourself, because if we are willing to surrender to the Lord, to do the “spiritual makeover” that we all need, then some real work can be done. We can pray for others, and we should, and we can talk to others about their need for change, but in the end they must decide that they need this for themselves, before any change will come. The Word can be preached and the Holy Spirit can convict, but even the Holy Spirit is often resisted by those He is speaking to (Acts 7:59).
In this passage in Philippians Paul is telling us the best thing we can do for ourselves, is to have an attitude of humility when it comes to everyone else. Sometimes the people in our lives can be a nuisance, or irritating, or even down right enemies, but we must not forget that we too were enemies of Christ, though most of us would not think of ourselves in this way.
Col 1:21b-22 (NLT) You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. 22 Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault.
Paul also tells us this in Romans 5:10.
Romans 5:10 (AMP) For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, it is much more [certain], now that we are reconciled, that we shall be saved (daily delivered from sin’s dominion) through His [resurrection] life.
Now, if Jesus could love us when we were his enemies, and come from heaven to earth to suffer and die the most cruel kind of death, and become the substitutionary sacrifice for our sins, then surely it is not too much for God to ask His redeemed children to humble themselves for the sake of these difficult people in our lives, knowing that they too need this Savior that we have.
Dear Lord, Help me to be more patient with those who are difficult, and at times down right obnoxious. If Christ could go so far to redeem and restore me to himself, then I know I can follow in his steps with the enabling grace He gives me, to love others for Christ sake. Work in and through me Lord to live outside myself, and see the big picture of your Kingdom and so order my speech and my walk to promote this cause rather than always being concerned about my own creature comfort. In Jesus name, Amen.
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9. Why is fruit in the Christian life so important? (Philippians 2:12-18)
Philippians 2:12-18 (NLT) Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. 13 For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. 14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 16 Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. 17 But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18 Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy.
Paul is encouraging the believers at Philippi to “work out” what God has already worked into our lives. I know in children’s church years ago we use to sing, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy down in my heart etc” but Paul is telling us here that it is important to demonstrate this by the way we live. If Christians don’t live out their life in light of the joy they claim to have we are not likely to convince anyone that being a Chrisian is all that appealing at all. One author wrote, “You Christians are like a man with a headache. He does not want to get rid of his head, but it is killing him to keep it.” That really does describe many believer’s and Paul would tell us that this is contrary to who were are “in Christ” and the joy that He brings to us. Fruit in the life of a Christian is very important, for it is the only way many people will ever see Christ. It is true that we can tell others about the Lord, and we should, but many more people will observe our life, than we will ever get to share the gospel to. So, for Christ’s sake and the sake of the gospel, we need to live out the desire that God has already put into our hearts. How hard can that really be? It would be excruciating without a changed nature, for sure. I can only walk like a duck and quack like a duck and float in the water like a duck for so long. If I were a duck it would be easy, but since I am not I soon would have a sore throat, sore hips and I probably would drown, and if I didn’t I would soon give up trying to be like a duck. I am not trying to suggest that being a Christian is always easy, and that there are no struggles with the world, the flesh and the Devil, because life at times is a real battle. But the lost too have many struggles just like we do. Everyone faces sickness, and death, and many will have some degree of financial hardship in life, but the Christian can get through these trials knowing that they are always in the care of a Sovereign God who is watching over them. May God help every believer to let the riches that Christ has deposited in our heart out so that God will be glorified and sinners will be saved.
Dear Jesus help me to live for our out of a pure heart and a genuine desire to glorify the God who saved me. You are an awesome God that has provided for every believer a “Great salvation” (Hebrews 2:3), so help me not to let these beautiful riches to slip from my grasp. In Jesus name, Amen.
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10. How does Paul distinguish between a genuine servant of Christ and a false one? (Philippians 2:19-30)
Philippians 2:19-30 (ESV) I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know Timothy’s proven worth, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel. I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me, and I trust in the Lord that shortly I myself will come also.
I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men, for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.
In this section of Philippians Paul tells us some of the wonderful qualities that can be found in any true servant of Christ. Paul talks about two people he mentions by name. The first is Timothy who Paul describes as having “genuine concern” for the welfare of those he has was called to minister to. This is set in direct contrast to false apostles and servants so called mentioned in Philippians 2:21. In fact, when it comes right down to it, I think everyone in this world could be recognized as having the testimony of Philippians 2:21 or Philippians 1:21.
In Philippians 1:21 Paul’s testimony was “to me to live is Christ: and to die is gain.” Anyone who is a devoted follower of Jesus Christ can make this same claim. This ought to be what Watchman Nee would call THE NORMAL CHRISTIAN LIFE. In contrast to that the description of many, including many who call themselves Christians, and even some who are in the ministry would be more in line with Philippians 2:21 in that they “seek their own interests and not those of Jesus Christ.” They are not interested in the welfare of others, but instead are in the ministry for what they can get out of it. This is in such contrast to Paul who was willing to be a bi-vocational minister, so that he would not be too big a burden on the poor saints to whom he ministered. Don’t get me wrong, most of the ministers I know are hard workers and have sacrificed quite a lot in order to serve and care for others. Many are working and earning incomes below poverty level, and yet are expected to be available any hour of the day for those they care for. They are not complainers either, because they do these things for the sheer love of Christ. There are exceptions to this that Paul was aware of in his day, and we should beware of in our day to. Timothy and Epaphroditus had some remarkable qualities that every Christian servant should aspire to.
1. They genuinely care for the welfare of the flock.
2. They never consider themselves above any other servant of Christ. They are “fellow workers.”
3. They are also “fellow soldiers” and like a soldier they are willing to “endure hardness” as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. Look at how Paul describes those committed to the ministry of others in 2 Timothy 2:1-2,24-26.
2 Timothy 2:1-4 (MSG) So, my son, throw yourself into this work for Christ. 2 Pass on what you heard from me–the whole congregation saying Amen!–to reliable leaders who are competent to teach others. 3 When the going gets rough, take it on the chin with the rest of us, the way Jesus did. 4 A soldier on duty doesn’t get caught up in making deals at the marketplace. He concentrates on carrying out orders.
2 Timothy 2:24-26 (MSG) God’s servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, 25 working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. You never know how or when God might sober them up with a change of heart and a turning to the truth, 26 enabling them to escape the Devil’s trap, where they are caught and held captive, forced to run his errands.
4. They are always alert and on ready to minister to the needs of other, like their Lord (Mark 10:45).
5. They will risk their own life for the needs of others, as did our Lord (Philippians 2:1-5).
Dear Lord, Help me to not be so focused on myself and my own interests that I am blind to the needs of others. Help me to be like you Lord, and die to self so that the life of Christ might shine through me. In Jesus name, Amen.
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11. Is it possible that I might need to give up my “religion” in order to get to know Christ? (Philippians 3:1-11)
Philippians 3:1-11 (NLT) Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith. [2] Watch out for those dogs, those people who do evil, those mutilators who say you must be circumcised to be saved. [3] For we who worship by the Spirit of God are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort, [4] though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more!
[7] I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. [8] Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ [9] and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. [10] I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, [11] so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!
The apostle Paul was “flying high” when it comes to his religious faith prior to coming to know Christ. What happened to Paul however is nothing new. Many people think that being part of a particular denomination will bring them salvation and assure them of heaven, when they die, however this thinking could prove to be a great mistake (Proverbs 14:12). Others think that if they just work hard at being a “good person” that God will reward them with heaven, but the Bible clearly refutes this idea too (Titus 3:5; Eph 2:8-9; Romans 10:1-3). I am certainly not against being part of a local church, that believes and preaches the Word of God. I think every Christian should be part of an assembly of believers on a regular basis (Hebrews 10:25). I do not believe that going to church will make anyone a Christian any more than going to McDonalds, will make you a Big Mac. Some churches actually are more harmful than helpful, if you are wanting to know the way of salvation, and be assured of going to heaven when you die. The Bible very clearly teaches us that salvation is by “grace” (undeserved favor of God, on those who have earned his judgement because of their sin nature and sin practice). It also tells us that we are saved by grace “through faith” (Eph 2:8-9). The object of our faith must be Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12; John 14:6), for faith is only as good as its object. A person may have a great amount of faith that his good living will earn him favor with God, but that great amount of faith is worthless. Paul discovered that trying to be a good law-keeper would not work for him, and it will not work for any of us either (James 2:10; Gal 3:10). The problem is that God does not grade on the curve. He demands of us, 100% obedience to 100% of the law, throughout 100% of our lifetime. No amount of good deeds that I do now, will ever undo the just punishment I deserve for my sin at any earlier time. The only way we can stand whole before God is to be washed. This washing is not done through baptism, though baptism certainly is a beautiful picture of what salvation looks like. The only detergent that can wash away our sins, and do away with our condemnation before God is the blood of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19; Rev 1:4-5).
Paul warned the believer’s at Philippi to watch out for false teachers, that He called “dogs.” They were adding to the gospel of salvation by grace, through faith, in the Person and Work of Christ on the Cross and teaching that circumcision was also necessary. Some today teach baptism is necessary, and some say you need to be baptized by the right person, and in the right way, with the right “formula” to be saved. I could go on and on about the many additions to faith in Christ, but the Bible clearly teaches us that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. This must be so, because the Scriptures alone is what we must rely upon for this clear message of God (Romans 1:16). Any other way of salvation that adds to grace, through faith, in Christ alone, will rob God of the glory that belongs only to Him (Rev 4:11; 5:11-14).
Dear Lord, I thank you that I can renounce all my apparent good works, and trust only in you for my salvation. I want to trust in you not just with my head, but also with my heart and will. You are worthy of such glory and honor. I know that many trust in Christ, with the head, or with their emotions only (James 2:19), but their faith is dead, or demonic, but not dynamic. I pray Lord that my faith will demonstrate itself in such a way that it becomes visible to others, for your glory (Matthew 5:14-16; Mark 2:5). In Jesus name, Amen.
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12. Now that I have trusted Christ, how do I continue on in my journey? (Philippians 3:10-16)
Philippians 3:10-16 (NLT) I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, [11] so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead! [12] I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. [13] No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. [15] Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. [16] But we must hold on to the progress we have already made.
We must clearly understand what it means by trusting Christ as Savior. It means more than just beliving the facts of the gospel, and praying a prayer of consent to those facts. That may very well have been part of how your spiritual journey began, but that is only the beginning of things. When you get Christ, you have been given a lot of new things (2Cor 5:17). Paul also makes this quite clear in this passage in Philippians as well.
Paul already knew Christ as his Savior, as He describes so well in the book of Acts chapters 9; 22 & 26; 1 Timothy 1:13-16 and here in Philippians as well. When Paul got saved God pointed him in a new direction, and now He is continuing to walk in that right direction more and more toward Christ. It is like the little boy who asked his dad how big God was, while they were on a drive toward some mountains. Dad decided to teach the boy about God by drawing his attention to the mountains that were several miles away but still could be seen up ahead. The dad told his son that God is big like the mountains up ahead. As they travelled for awhile the little boy began to observe how the closer they got to the mountain, the bigger the mountain became. He also noticed that when they got right up to the mountain they could see nothing but mountains. This I think is the essence of what Paul is saying here in Philippians. As we walk on this pilgrim journey toward an ever increasing Christlikeness, we will begin to see our trials and troubles in a new light. God becomes bigger, and everything else becomes small in comparison. At some point on this journey as we are spending more quality time with God the only thing we can see anymore is a big God, and He becomes the filter through which we see ourselves, and the world around us (Isaiah 6:1-6). In this passage though Paul already “knew Christ” as Savior, He wanted a much deeper experience with Christ, so He said he desired to really “know Him” more and in an ever increasing way. We can read our bible and learn the truth about God, but we can only know God as we experience Him and trust Him daily through life’s experiences. Just because Christians are saved, does not mean they are perfect in a practical sense. The sanctification process begins the moment we are justified by faith. This is where we really get to experience “eternal life” in sanctification as well as justification. May this prayer of Paul be the longing of every child of the living God.
John 17:3 (ESV) And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Note: (Commentary on John 17:3 by Thomas Constaple) Jesus proceeded to define the nature of eternal life. Eternal life is essentially knowing (Gr. ginoskosin, cf. Gen. 4:1; Matt. 1:25) God experientially through faith in His Son (cf. 3:5; Jer. 31:34; Hab. 2:14; Heb. 8:11). Jesus described it in terms of relationship rather than duration. Everyone will live forever somewhere. However the term “eternal life” as Jesus used it means much more than long life.
Life is active involvement with environment; death is the cessation of involvement with the environment, whether it be physical or personal. The highest kind of life is involvement with the highest kind of environment. A worm is content to live in soil; we need not only the wider environment of earth, sea, and sky but also contact with other human beings. For the complete fulfillment of our being, we must know God. This, said Jesus, constitutes eternal life.
Jesus described the Father here as the only true God. He is knowable only through Jesus Christ whom He sent (cf. 1:18; Matt. 11:27). We sometimes say that it is a blessing and an inspiration to know certain people. This is all the more true when we know God. Knowing Him changes us and introduces us into a different quality of living.
Dear Lord, I know how the more familiar we become with each other, the more clear and distinct our flaws may appear. This is true of everyone I am sure, because we all still deal with the principle of sin and a sin nature. I am grateful that as we grow in Christ, we can grow in more Christlikeness so that in an ever increasing way our “walk” will become more and more conformed to our “talk” about Christ. I am thankful to you Lord that the more I spend time with you the more lovely you become. You truly are the “altogether lovely one.” You are the “real thing” and nothing else in the world can ever be compared to you. You are willing to and wanting to communicate with us, though you are so far above any of us. Thank you Lord that this intimacy is so real that I can have constant access to you, every day, without going through any other mediator except Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5).
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13. How can I be an example worth following? (Philippians 3:17-21)
Philippians 3:17-4:1 (NLT) Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. 18 For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. 20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. 21 He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control. 4:1 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work
Paul gives some great advice for all of us. He first teaches us that we need to be a good example worth following, and then He tells us that if we want to really grow up in Christ, then we need to get some core friends that demonstrate that they are truly devoted followers of Christ. I did not do enough of that in my early days as a pastor. I really needed a lot more mentoring before I began to pastor, and I should have sought out more help for the journey. We really mess up by trying to do this all by ourself. The Devil likes to isolate us from the body of Christ, because that is how we become easy prey. These days, I know I need accountability partners more than ever in my life, and I really look forward to those times with my brothers in Christ. We all know that none of us have arrived and we are there to help each other see the blind spots each of us have.
If we really want to be an example worth following I think we must approach evey day “eagerly waiting for him to return.” Think about the most planned events in our lives. I don’t think it is our retirement, or our funeral preparations, as important as they are. The one event that most of us put more time and thought into than anything else according to those who have done surveys on this, say it is our vacation plans. These are important too, no doubt, so maybe we could all show that same kind of diligence as we plan for our final destiny, when we leave home for the last time to go to our real home in heaven.
Dear Lord, help me to make “eagerly waiting” for my Savior’s return to be the focus of every day of my life. If I do this I truly believe I will be an example worth following, and others who follow the advice of the apostle Paul will too. In Jesus name, Amen.
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14. Why is it so important for Christians to settle their differences, and mend fences? (Philippians 4:2-3)
Philippians 4:2-3 (NLT) Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. 3 And I ask you, my true partner, to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. They worked along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are written in the Book of Life.
It is such a sad thing to see Christians who just can’t get along and resolve their differences. We are living in a very self centered society today and it has spilled over into the church. I know Christians are not perfect, because I am one and I fall far short of the mark. But Christian unity is what we should always strive for. God does not ask us to create the unity, because the Holy Spirit does that the day we are saved and “baptized into the body of Christ” (1 Cor 12:13). We are commanded to, “endeaver to KEEP the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph 4:3). When Christians quarrel and cannot resolve things they harm the cause of Christ, and they hurt their own testimony and in many cases make it so difficult for any Christian to penetrate the hardened hearts of their unsaved friends who have witnessed their inability to resolve conflicts among themselves. If we are going to be like Christ we must forgive “one another” just has Christ has been willing to forgive us (Eph 4:31-32). When we are unwilling to do that we “grieve the Holy Spirit” that dwells within us, and much harm is done in the church’s ability to be an effective witness in sharing the gospel to others. I hear of stories often of church’s that are going through splits, or are starving their pastor out to try to discourage Him to stay on in that church, so that He will leave. Sometimes pastor’s should go, if they are doctrinally unsound, or morally corrupt. That is a given, but many times it is over petty things. Some people get upset when many new people start attending church in fear that they will lose their control over the church and the prestige they have built up with others over time. They want to control everything, and even leave no room for the Holy Spirit of God to work in their lives or anyone else’s. Sometimes they don’t like the color of the carpet, or the padded chairs instead of padded pews. Sometimes they get upset and leave because they play guitars and other musical instruments instead of the piano. Sometimes, they don’t like the way their pastor gives an invitation, or the way He does not do it like their former pastor. What I am describing I have witnessed many times, and the more this happens the more the unchurched will cry, “If that is what it means to be a Christian, then I want no part of it!” It is sad when we arm the unsaved with excuses for not coming to Christ, because when they go to their reward in Hell for having rejected Christ, their fingers will point toward such selfish Christians who refuse to get along with others and work together for the glory of God toward the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING VERSES PRAYERFULLY!
Eph 4:1-7 (MSG) In light of all this, here’s what I want you to do. While I’m locked up here, a prisoner for the Master, I want you to get out there and walk–better yet, run!–on the road God called you to travel. I don’t want any of you sitting around on your hands. I don’t want anyone strolling off, down some path that goes nowhere. 2 And mark that you do this with humility and discipline–not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring yourselves out for each other in acts of love, 3 alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences4 You were all called to travel on the same road and in the same direction, so stay together, both outwardly and inwardly. 5 You have one Master, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who rules over all, works through all, and is present in all. Everything you are and think and do is permeated with Oneness. _________________________________________________________________________
15. How can Christians best prepare for the day they will meet their Savior face to face? (Philippians 4:4)
Philippians 4:4 (MSG) Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him!
This is the way the Message, by Eugene Peterson paraphrase’s the popular verse, “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice.” As I read this verse in a fresh way through Eugene Peterson’s help, it makes me think of the best thing we all can do before we get to heaven. We can all live in a spirit of worship before a Holy God always. I know we have job duties that may demand our undivided attention, and this is at times a Great distraction, but if we maintain a spirit of worship, doing all things in light of this we can practice daily, consistent worship with God. Paul said something similar to the Colossians when he said, “Whatever you are doing, work at it with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not for people” (Col 3:23 NETP).
It makes me think of the story about the preacher Peter Cartwright, I believe was his name. After he was converted to Christ he just could not stop praising the Lord everywhere He went. He did get on the nerves of some of his friends for constantly saying, “Glory to God,” and “Praise the Lord.” He was not forcing it or trying to be religious. This was really how he felt about God. One day one person got so annoyed with Peter Cartwright that they said, What’s going to happen to you, if you die and go to hell? What will you do then with all your “praise God, glory to God” stuff? Peter Cartwright promptly replied, I will continue to say Praise God, and glory to God, and the Devil will say, “You can’t do that down here, and I will leave hell and praise and glorify God all the way to heaven.”
There is something about that story that resonates with me. I am not going to do exactly what Peter did and anger lots of people by repeating that phrase constantly, but I hope I can live each day of my life making sure that my heart is in tune with this same God that Peter Cartwright was so in love with.
Think of the impact Christians would have on society if we truly lives our lives in daily celebration of the greatness of God.
Dear Lord, Help me to “redeem the time” that I have remaining on this earth by celebrating the greatness of who you are each and every day. You are awesome, and the God thoughts that you allow me to have throughout the day really do give me energy that I otherwise would never have. In Jesus name, Amen.
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16. How can we be an overcomer when we feel so overwhelmed with life’s struggles? (4:6-7)
We mentioned earlier that the thief of worry can rob us of our joy when we do not trust in the Lord. The answer to our worry problem is to remember that Christ is my PEACE (4:6-7), My POWER (4:13) and my PROVIDER (4:19). If this is not the FOCUS of our attention then we will succumb to worry and fear and we will not be “celebrating God all day long, each and every day” as Paul encourages us to do. In these three verses Paul is telling us how to live before the world around us and demonstrate the difference that having Christ in our life makes. This is in such contrast to how most people handle the circumstances of their life. I think it is okay to be concerned about our situation, and not be so passive that we sit at home, and refuse to look for a job, claiming to trust in the Lord. Concern is good, because it does lead us to take appropriate action when faced with crises. Worry however, will paralyze us and will either keep us from doing anything at all, or may even cause us to take the wrong action like Abraham did, by going down to Egypt, and trusting in Egypt, a type and picture of this world system, instead of the Lord (see Isa 30:1-2).
Philippians 4:5 (AMP) Let all men know and perceive and recognize your unselfishness (your considerateness, your forbearing spirit). The Lord is near [He is coming soon]. 6 Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. 7 And God’s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Dear Lord, I thank you for the comfort of knowing that you want me to bring my concerns to you in prayer, and for you to give me a supernatural peace and calm from the storms of life. If you could calm the waters when the disciples were fearful, then I know you are able to give me the calmness I need in the trials I face in my life. In Jesus name, Amen.
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17. Why should every Christian should memorize Philippians 4:13 and Philippians 4:19?
Philippians 4:13 (AMP) I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency.”
Philippians 4:19 (AMP) And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Read and meditate on these verses and soon no explanation will be needed for why we must memorize these two verses. I find a very similar verse to this in 2 Cor 3:4-6.
2 Cor 3:4-6a (NLT) We are CONFIDENT of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. 5 It is not that we think we are QUALIFIED (sufficient) to do anything on our own. Our qualification (or sufficiency) comes from God. 6 He has enabled us…
Dear Lord, I thank you for these great verses that shows me you will always be with me, and you are always taking care of me. I am in your hands and have nothing to fear. Help me Lord, to believe this always, and when I waver, help my unbelief! (Mark 9:23-24)
Mark 9:23-24 (NLT) “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.” 24 The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
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