Philipians 1:12-18

Unified Community

Knowing Christ

This study continues our theme of a Community of Unified Worshipers but moves us from a worshiping community to being a unified community.

Following Christ as a Community

This unified community has at its core, knowing Jesus as their common bond.

Unity as We Follow Christ

That knowledge is thus to produce a corporately joyful and unified body of Christ.

Joy in Christ Filled Community

That joyful unity comes as both, the individuals and the community of believers grows in like-mindedness with Jesus.

‌Philippians 1:12–18

Philippians 1:12–18 ESV

I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,

Philippi

Philipi Location

Philippi was a major city in ancient Macedonia, located in northeastern Greece

Founded in the 4th century BC by King Philip II of Macedon (father of Alexander the Great),

It was a strategic center on the Via Egnatia, a key Roman road connecting Europe and Asia.

Like building close to Hwy 80 in Iowa

Philippi was a cosmopolitan city with a mix of Greek and Roman influences.

Philipi Ruins

Who were the Philippians

Paul established the church in Philippi during his second missionary journey around 50 AD, detailed in Acts 16.

He faced persecution there, but the church continued to grow.

Paul’s Difficulties

Paul is faced with a series of difficulties that he writes about;

We are going to talk about Paul’s hope and motivation in the midst of difficulties

Big idea: We should find joy of the gospel, empowering us to face challenges, celebrate Christian unity, and find deep fulfillment in faith.

Chained For the Gospel

Paul has been arrested for preaching that Jesus is God and should be worship alone.

In Chains — like to a guard

Praetorium Guard — Imperial or Palace Guard

An elite guard that would protect Caesar and also other top officials like governors .

Imagine being limited in movement and having a guard with you where you go. Eating, sleeping, even pooping

Others Preaching the Gospel

There are two groups with differing motivations for preaching Christ (v. 15-17).

Some preach out of "envy and rivalry" (v. 15): Their motives are selfish, hoping to cause Paul trouble or gain some advantage.

Others preach "out of love" (v. 16): Their motivation is genuine, supporting Paul and the spread of the gospel message.

What is our response to difficulty?

What is Paul’s response to difficulty?

Hope!

Philippians 1:12–13 ESV

I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.

Philippians 1:14 ESV

And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

Community in Difficulty

Paul utilizes family language to express his deep affection for the church and the immense value he places on unity within the body of Christ.

In another prison letter to the Church of Ephesus, Paul’s heart again comes out

Ephesians 4:1–6 ESV

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Shared Identity as Family

Philippians: Paul refers to himself and the Philippians as being "in chains for Christ" (1:13). This shared experience in Christ creates a sense of brotherhood and solidarity.

Ephesians: He calls on the believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called" (4:1). This "calling" refers to their shared identity as God's children, emphasizing their family bond in Christ.

Words of endearment

Philippians: Though not explicitly stated, the entire passage in Philippians 1 breathes warmth and concern. Paul rejoices at their progress (v. 18) – a sentiment a loving family member would have.

Ephesians: He directly addresses them as "brothers" (4:1), a term of affection that underscores his close connection with the church.

The Importance of Harmony

Philippians: Paul finds joy despite his situation because "in every way, whether in word or in deed, Christ is proclaimed" (v. 18). Here, unity in purpose (spreading the gospel) takes precedence over individual situations.

Ephesians: He exhorts them to "maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (4:3). This "unity" doesn't imply uniformity, but rather a harmonious co-existence despite differences, just like a well-functioning family.

The Gospel in Difficulty

Imagine Paul, chained in prison. He's not comfortable, he might be afraid, he might be facing an uncertain future. Yet, Philippians 1:18 tells us he rejoices! Why? Because the gospel, the good news, isn't just words – it's a life-changing reality that transcends circumstance.

2 Corinthians 12:8–10 (ESV)

Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

The Power of the Gospel

The gospel whispers (or shouts!) truths that fill us with joy:

We are forgiven

Our past mistakes, burdens, and guilt are washed away by Christ's sacrifice. This is freedom, a reason to celebrate!

We are loved

Unconditionally, extravagantly loved by God. This unshakeable love provides a foundation of security and belonging, no matter what life throws our way.

We are not alone

We are part of a global family of believers, united by Christ. This creates a powerful sense of community and support, a network of brothers and sisters who walk beside us.

Finding Joy in the Journey

These truths are not just for good times. They are the anchors that hold us steady in the storms of life, just like they held Paul steady in his chains. The gospel gives us purpose, a reason to get up each day and share this good news with the world.

Call to Action:

So, let's follow Paul's example. Let's face our challenges with the unshakeable joy of the gospel. Let's celebrate our shared faith, embracing our differences within the beautiful tapestry of God's family. Because when we truly grasp the good news, the joy it brings overflows, transforming our lives and impacting the world around us.