Philippians - The Joyful Letter [Series]
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
1. HEARTFELT THANKSGIVING
Passage 1: 1‑ 8
Introduction: Philippians is possibly Paul's warmest personal letter to a group or believers. It clearly shows his mature affection and regard for a Church which had repeatedly encouraged him in all his endeavours for Christ. Such a relationship with and regard for them emerges even in the opening greeting.
1. PRAISE (vs. 3,4):
See his continuing sense of thankfulness for them as Christian people. How much they have come to mean to him. What about our relationships with other Christians? How many do we think of in these terms? How many do we lift in prayer to God's presence thankfully, gladly, joyfully? Our relationships need not be marked by envy, bitterness, competitiveness or conflict (cf. Phil 2:3f; 4:2).
* Activity: Share with one another the circumstances behind one Christian or group meaning a lot to you in terms of these verses.
2. PARTNERSHIP (v.5):
Here we come up against our old friend ''fellowship'' again. They have a fellowship/relation ship/participation/sharing/partnership in the Gospel. Clearly it is a sharing which is meaningful and significant for Paul. Notice what he says later ‑ 4:15‑18. Theirs is not merely a sharing in the blessings of the Gospel together. They are sharing in the enterprise of the Gospel, the responsibility of ministry and the enlargement of the Kingdom. Paul calls them partners ‑ not just supporters.
* Discuss: What other images of partnership or co‑operation in ministry does Paul use elsewhere in his letters? How can we experience and encourage “partnership in the Gospel” in Greyfriars etc.?
3. PROGRESS (v.6):
Here the emphasis is on the fact of growth, development, maturing as part of normal Christian experience. Paul asserts that as God has begun to work in them, so he will continue and complete it - cf Phil 2:13.
* Share with one another ONE significant area of your experience where you are conscious of God continuing to work away on you
4. PRINCIPLE (v.7‑8):
Here is the undergirding of their relationship ‑ love.
Strong emotions are involved ‑ his feelings (v.7) "I hold you in my heart" ‑ do you feel like that about our fellow‑members?
What are they partaking in together? “I yearn for you all” ‑ in terms of his love for them (their company, etc.) but also his longings for them (their growth) ‑ cf Colossians 1:28
* Discuss: What practical expression can be given to our love for one another in the Body of Christ?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
2 PASTORAL CONCERN
Passage: 1:3 - 11
Introduction: Typically, Paul’s introduction to his letter concludes with a prayerfor his friends in Philippi [9-11]. He is concerned that they will realise who they are as the people of God, and that they will develop in discipleship and grow as Christians. Now, see some of the specific items in his prayer – regarding what should mark their maturing in Christ.
1. 1. The Mark of a Deepening Love:
2. “That your love may abound more and more” [9a]. Again it is the word “agape” which is used – the distinctive love which comes from God.
- If it is our love for Christ which is intended – how can we help it grow? Discuss
- If it is the love of Christ – ie the love Christ imparts and bestows – how can we encourage it to overflow from us to love one another, or to love and serve others? Discuss
2. The Mark of a Deepening Understanding:
Notice the “love” which is prayed for is not based on sentimentality or romanticism or emotionalism. Neither is it some vague, wavering, fluctuating feeling. It is rooted in understanding [9b].
· Knowing the Truth – essentially a grasp of the Scriptures as the revelation of God’s purpose and will for us as human beings, - and equally importantly -
· Applying the Truth – discernment is the ability to relate the principles of the Word to our real-life situations in discipleship and obedience.
*Discussion: How can we develop and exercise “knowledge and all discernment” – not only personally, but as a group or as a congregation?
3. The Mark of a Deepening Dedication:
How can you have a deeper dedication? Surely, you either lead a life dedicated to the Lord, or you don’t? It at least includes the extension of our dedication and Christ’s Lordship to areas of our lives to which we previously have said to the Lord, “hands off”. We all have these, whether acknowledged or not!
However, more properly, “approving what is excellent” – really has to do with choosing the superior, ie the difference between the better and the best
*Discussion: Share with one another which area of life you feel should be targetted by the need to approve the excellent?
4. The Mark of a Deepening Life in Christ:
“Filled with the fruits of righteousness” [11]. See how this is linked to the excellent – and the awareness of our accountability to Christ on His return [10]. Note that all this comes through Jesus Christ and is to the glory and praise of God.
*Discuss the relation between this verse and the picture of the vine and the branches [John 15] and the fruit of the Spirit [Galatians 5:22f].
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
3 TO ADVANCE THE GOSPEL
Passage: 1:12 ‑18
Introduction: Paul's letter to Philippi is generally supposed to have been written during his first imprisonment in Rome (AD 59‑61). In this section he seeks not only to allay their fears and concern for his situation ‑ “I want you to know”, but also to assure them that the work of the Gospel has not been hindered but rather advanced because of this situation ‑ “what has happened to me has really served to advance the Gospel”. How can that be? It takes a bit of believing? Well Paul mentions three features:
1. Paul's case is clarified (13):
In a word because of his confinement, it has become general knowledge among Caesar's household what kind of person he is. He is not a criminal. He is not a revolutionary. They are beginning to understand his Christian convictions and attitudes. Remember his friends had access to him. and doubtless the authorities had full reports on his visitors, his conversations and his correspondence.
* DISCUSSION: Remember the story of Joseph and his mother. Notice Joseph’s summary in Genesis 50:20. How does all this fit in with our understanding of God's sovereignty and providence? Share with one another some experience where "good" came out of seeming “evil” in your life.
2. Believers are edified (14):
With Paul unable to travel around on evangelistic missions, others stepped forward realizing their calling and gifts. Here was vivid, practical “partnership in the gospel” (cf 1:5). Look closely at the verse again - and notice
· the agents of mission and witness ‑ "most of the brethren", not merely some or a few, but the majority of believers
· the power for mission and witness ‑ "confident in the Lord", and God has done this, making them confident in his power, not their own .
· the manner of mission and witness ‑ "much more bold" (RSV) or “more courageously and fearlessly” (NIV). NOT hesitantly or half heartedly!
· the substance of mission and witness ‑ "the Word of God" or “Christ” (15). They are talking about the Good News of Jesus.
* SHARE with one another something from this verse that sheds light for you on equipping all God’s people for work in his service.
3. The Community is Evangelized (15‑18):
See how Paul acknowledges the mixed motives of some ‑ "envy and rivalry'', human motives, personal power‑play and selfish ambition. We can only sense his disappointment and hurt. Yet there is encouragement from the "good will" and "love" of his friends. See his great heartedness, his shining vision, his burning commitment ‑ “What then?” ‑ “What does it matter?” - the rivalry, the small mindedness, the petty squabbling? “The important thing is that in every way Christ is preached ... And in that rejoice”.
* DISCUSSION: What does this section tell us about real life in the Church and how to handle squabbles and conflicts?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
4. ONE MAN’S PERSPECTIVES
Passage: 1:19 ‑ 26
Introduction: In this section Paul now turns to the more personal issues involved in his imprisonment, his pending trial together with its possible outcome. Remember, here is no play acting. He is in very real danger. Yet notice
1. The Apostle's Conviction:
See how he at once sets the tone as one of thanksgiving ‑ "Yes, and I shall rejoice". In the face of uncertainty and his precarious circumstances, he can affirm, “For I Know”. Can you think of any other place where Paul says “for I know” ‑ eg. 2 Timothy 1:12?
· He is confident of God's sovereignty and providence working through his present situation ‑ “this will turn out for my good”.
· He is confident of the value of prayer ‑ "through your prayers". Do we really expect prayer to change things?
· He is confident of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit ‑ “the help of the Holy Spirit”.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another what practical lesson in Christian living you learn from verse 19.
2. The Apostle’s Concern:
Experiencing confinement, facing a trial and an unknown verdict, see the kinds of things he is really concerned about! ‑ “his eager expectation and hope”.
· Inwardly, he seeks a clear conscience ‑ “not to be at all ashamed”, as he examines himself before the Lord.
· Outward, he seeks a bold testimony - "that with full courage", he may face the world, his accusers, his judges with a bold, consistent witness to Christ.
· Upwardly, he seeks an unblemished record ‑ in the day of the Lord Jesus, whether by his death or by his life Paul desires Christ to be honoured.
* DISCUSSION: Is verse 20 talking of "integrity"? What place has a concern for personal integrity in the Christian's life?
3. The Apostle’s Commitment:
He appreciates the outcome of his trial hangs in the balance. Certainly he is seeking to reassure his colleagues in the faith. However, notice his succinct summary, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain”. Yet see how he thinks it through ‑ to depart is better for him, but to remain is more necessary for them. How does he see the need for his continuing ministry among them, for what purpose, to what end ‑ see verse 25.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another your response to verse 21.
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
5. THE WORTHY LIFE
Passage: 1:27 - 2:4
Introduction: In the previous section, we saw the motivation behind Paul’s desire to continue to have a ministry among his friends in Philippi - “for your progress and joy in the faith” (25). Now the focus is sharpened further, his concern is for the quality of their life. Later he will say, “our citizenship is in heaven”. The Philippians living in a colony of Rome well knew that citizenship brought responsibilities as well as prerogatives. He is dealing with the quality of their life together as the people of God.
1. The Principle of Christian Life Together:
“Let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ” (27). This certainly applies to our personal lives in faithfulness, love, holiness and obedience. Compare the call to worthy living in Ephesians 4:1. Here, the primary call is to the people of God as a community in relationship. What about our -
· Organisation as the people of God. Are our structures and ways of working worthy of the Lord, reflecting Gospel priorities and Kingdom principles?
· Administration as the people of God. Are theories of ministry, service and leadership lived out among us in Gospel terms?
· Participation in the people of God. What about the quality of our relationships with one another? What about a practical commitment to one another - does it reflect the Gospel distinctive of John 13:35?
· Demonstration of the people of God. Is our life together in worship, fellowship and costly service a true reflection to the world of the real Church?
* DISCUSSION: Share together your responses to the questions raised in this section.
2. The Purpose of Christian Life Together:
It is spelt out in the second half of verse 27. However, verses 28-30 make it clear that the context of their life together is difficulty, persecution and suffering. Thus the latter part of verse 27 has military connotations, introducing the idea of soldiers and battle.
· Consistency in the Gospel - “that you may stand firm” - ie holding your ground in the battle during the assaults of the enemy - cf Ephesians 6:10-18.
· Community of the Gospel - “one spirit” and “one mind”. Here the community is not so much that of the monastery or a cloistered brotherhood, as that of a regiment, the comradeship of the conflict sharing deprivation, hardship and danger on a daily basis.
· Constancy for the Gospel - “striving side by side for the faith of the Gospel”. We are committed together in common cause - “fighting together” (so GNB) not fighting one another.
* DISCUSSION: So often we take Church fights for granted. What does this section say about it all? How do you feel?
3. The Practice of Christian Life Together:
Notice the motivation to practical Christian living within the body of believers - see 2:1. Notice that the working out of Christian lifestyle in community includes true, deep unity (2:2), humility (2:3) and service to others rather than self‑assertion (2:4).
Notice it is at this point, by way of example, he introduces the hymn to Christ (2:5-11) but for us that is another study. Just a point to ponder, how does a proper sense of self‑worth relate to humility or esteeming others better than ourselves?
* DISCUSSION: Read 2:1 again and discuss the significance of the features mentioned. How relevant are they for us in our situation?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
6. THE SERVANT GOD
Passage: 2: 1 - 11
Introduction: From his appeal to demonstrate an appropriate life‑in‑relationship with others in the Church (20‑4) Paul urges his friends to look at Jesus, to consider his example and to reflect what should be the practical outcome in their own discipleship.
1. The Wonder Christians should Experience:
This "hymn to Christ" (5‑11) has been described as a parabola ‑ beginning high it sweeps down to the lowest point when the arc curves and climbs upwards again. The descending arc, as it were, speaks of the humiliation of Christ. We are dealing with the mystery of his person
and what he does with who he is! Notice the steps:
· ''the form of God" - i.e. his essential being and nature. He always was this. Compare John 1:1‑5 and Colossians 1:15‑20.
· “equality with God” not something he held on to at all costs. Unlike Adam or Lucifer who coveted it.
· "he emptied himself" - he turned his back on his eternal glory and in some sense at least limited himself.
· "taking the form of a servant" ‑ (here is the same Greek word as before) the essential nature of the Son's ministry was servant Lord. Compare Mark 10:45.
· "being found in human form" (8). Here the word “form” (schema) refers to a temporary, transient state.
* DISCUSSION: What do these verses have to say about the attitude (4) which insists on its rights?
2. The Worship Christians should Express:
The response to the self‑humbling of the Lord of Glory should be wonder leading to worship. See how his humility is shown by his obedience. So, for us self-will and pride are demonstrated by disobedience to the Word and the Spirit of God.
· "even death on a Cross" ‑ This is indeed amazing grace. Such was the extent of his humility and obedience. He faced and accepted not merely physical agony but spiritual isolation and alienation ‑ eg. “My God, my God why hast thou forsaken me”.
· ''therefore God has highly exalted him" - Notice the exaltation is a consequence of the humility and obedience.
· “the Name above every Name” ‑ Remember the importance of the concept of "the Name" in terms of being and authority.
· the Confession ‑ "Jesus Christ is Lord" ‑ Thus the humble servant becomes the exalted Lord ‑ "to the glory of God the Father".
* DISCUSSION: Are there knees not bowing and tongues not confessing his Lordship in your life? What might they be?
3. The Way Christians should Exhibit:
Following the example of Jesus we should be demonstrating a distinctive lifestyle ‑ true community, real fellowship rather than manipulation or domination of others “Let this attitude be yours”. Read again 2:1‑4. Jesus patterned this way of life. Do we live this way too?
* DISCUSSION: How do verses 1-4 relate to Jesus words about denying ourselves or his action in taking a towel and a basin and washing the disciples' feet?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
7. DEDICATED CHRISTIAN LIVING
Passage: 2: 12 - 18
Introduction: This section flows on from the preceding one. Notice the “therefore” in verse 12. What is being said in this section is a consequence from what we have just considered of this humility, servant Lord, lordship and example of Christ.
1. The Exhortation to Dedicated Living:
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (verse 12). Certainty, on the face of it, a perplexing verse.
· It has to do with our progress. Christians as disciples of Jesus have to develop, grow, mature in their faith and experience. "Work out" means to carry out to the full and bring to completion.
· It has to do with our responsibility. This working out is something we have to do.
· It has to do with our attitude. The fear and trembling denotes awe, reverence, worship rather than terror.
* DISCUSSION: Just what is our responsibility in terms of working out ?
2. The Encouragement for Dedicated Living:
Maybe you feel that this responsibility is at least daunting ‑ if not "bad news"! Well verse 13 gives us good news. God is at work in us. Because HE is working in us, WE can keep on working out our salvation. His energy and his enabling are present through the Word and by his Spirit.
· He supplies the will ‑ the desires after himself, the longings for a fuller life in Christ, the resolution to seek avenues of service.
· He enables us to do ‑ by bringing longings to fulfilment, vision to reality and by imparting gifts, talents and ministries.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another some personal experience of what verse 13 says.
3. The Elements of Dedicated Living:
· cheerful, joyful obedience - v.14
· holiness ‑ the Christian's distinctive lifestyle v.15
· steadfast in faith ‑ “holding fast” (16), persevering on our pilgrimage.
· hope on the horizon ‑ “the day of Christ” (16).
* DISCUSSION: Tell how ONE of these elements in this section challenges or blesses you.
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
8. CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP
Passage: 2: 19 - 30
Introduction: This week's section gives us some insights into the nature, role and purpose of ministry and leadership within the Church. It needs constantly to be borne in mind that leadership in the Church is essentially different from leadership in the world.
1. The Attributes of Leaders:
Paul speaks first of Timothy. In commending him to the Philippians notice what he says. Michael Green talks of the essential qualifications for leadership in the N.T. as belonging to character rather than to intellect or social position.
• his utter commitment to Christ and his cause - v 20a and 21.
• his concern for people ‑ v.20b.
• his faithful, loving service ‑ v.22
Remember at this stage Timothy was still a young fellow. Probably in part because of his age, he was somewhat diffident, reticent and even timid. On the other hand, Paul entrusted him with delicate business at times. Read again what Paul says to him in 1 Timothy 4:11‑16 and 2 Timothy 1:6‑7.
* DISCUSSION: Is there a place for younger people in the leadership of the Church ‑ what are the arguments for and against it?
2. The Affirming of Leaders:
Here, we are concerned with the glowing terms in which Paul commends Epaphroditus (25). See how Paul makes plain the partnership in ministry and affirms the contribution of others.
· "my brother" ‑ a relationship in Christ and a common faith.
· “my fellow‑worker” ‑ partners together in a common cause ‑ making Christ known and building the Church.
· "my fellow‑soldier" ‑ comrades together sharing a common discipline, common difficulties and common danger.
· "messenger" ‑ literally "apostolos" ‑ sent, commissioned, authorised.
· “minister to my need” ‑ see how ministry is reciprocal. Paul needs ministry from others. Paul receives ministry from others. Paul appreciates ministry from others.
* DISCUSSION: What insights into the functioning of Christian leadership do we learn from verse 25?
3. The Attitude to Leaders:
The Church is a body. Gifts of ministry have a function in the body. One such gift or function is leadership. One real test of leadership is to see who or how many are following. Notice how Paul urges the Philippians to respond to Epaphroditus (29)
* “Receive him . . .”
* “Receive him in the Lord”
* “Receive him . . . . with all joy”
* “Honour such men”
How does all this correspond to our attitudes towards our Christian leaders?
* DISCUSSION: In practical terms what might be involved in “receiving” our leaders today?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
9. NEW LIFE
Passage: 3: 1 - 11
Introduction: It is the witness of the NT that Jesus came to bring us new life. John can talk about new birth or being born from above, and even eternal life. Paul speaks of a new creation or of dying and rising with Christ. Our Lord's own testimony is that he came to bring life ‑ "life in all its fulness". Paul now seeks to spell this out for his friends.
1. The Plea we need to hear (1-3):
a. Rejoicing ‑ the joy of Christian faith and life, of experience and discipleship. "Be glad in the Lord" ‑ so Living Bible ‑ an echo of the Psalmist?
b. Reminding ‑ repetition of important basic principles is a necessary part of growing and discipling ‑ Compare LB “I never get tired of telling you this, and it is good for you to hear it again and again”.
c. Rebuking ‑ Negatively, words of warning “Look out” - “Watch out” - against false teaching, those people who would lead us astray. Positively, words of encouragement. Notice the marks of true belief
* “worship God in Spirit”'
* “glory in Christ Jesus”
* “Put no confidence in the flesh”.
* DISCUSSION: How were these three attitudes marks of true belief then? How are they still applicable today?
2. The Perspective we need to adopt (4‑9):
Read the section through again. List the things Paul used to take pride in. He is comparing his religious background with the teaching of these Judaizing preachers. Now see how he regards his former gains ‑ advantages ‑ tradition ‑ as "loss" and as "refuse" (8). See the focus of his attention now: “the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord”.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another the kinds of things you have “written off” because of “the surpassing worth”.
3. The Passion we need to foster (10-11):
Arising out of the desire to “gain Christ” (8) and to “be found in him” (9) comes the passionate resolution of verses 10 and 11.
· “that I may know him” - that deep person to person knowing, both of intensity and intimacy. The longing to know Christ more, better, deeper, fuller ‑ a progression in fellowship and relationship.
· “in the power of his resurrection” ‑ ie. as a present reality ‑ cf. Gal. 2:20f.
· “the fellowship of his sufferings” (KJV) Why this seeming inversion of sequence? By the power of his risen life we can share/participate in his sufferings.
· “becoming like him in his death” - Reflect back to 2:5‑11. Does the "I" in our lives die in humility, servanthood and obedience?
· “the resurrection from the dead” ‑ the great hope of believers. The phrase "by any means” is no expression of doubt ‑ it is a statement of purpose.
· DISCUSSION: Share how we can give practical expression to “the greatest thing in all my life is knowing you . . .I want to know you more ...”
·
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
10. PRESSING ON
Passage: 3:12‑16
Introduction: In this section the themes of dedication, maturing and perseverance are all intertwined. Our continuing responsibility in discipleship is made plain as Paul spells out his own attitude.
1. The Comprehension Christians must emulate:
Paul states categorically that he does not consider that he has "arrived" ‑ spiritually speaking. He has a long way to go (13). Indeed he reaffirms this in the next verse. If that is Paul's genuine estimate of himself ‑ then there is something for us to learn there. The attitude which says or implies “I have arrived” or “I’ve got it all” is a blight on progress in spiritual things. It reveals:
* pride rather than humility
* fantasy rather than reality
* immaturity rather than maturity.
We are simply fooling ourselves, no one else. It demonstrates that we are mistaken in our thinking and deficient in our living.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another some area of life where you have been convicted about the need to press on.
2. The Consecration Christians must evidence:
How does Paul combat ‑ the word is used advisedly ‑ the glib attitude of “that's enough”. See verse 13.
· He puts the past behind him. He forgets it all with its catalogue success or failure, victory or defeat, attainments and everything else. He runs in the present.
· He reaches out for what lies ahead. "Straining forward" describes the athlete giving the last ounce of energy and concentration as he/she makes for the finishing line. That is what fills his vision.
* DISCUSSION: What kind of things do we need to forget ‑ put behind us - as individuals and as a Church to release us in the race before us?
3. The Concentration Christians must Exercise:
Effort, work and sacrifice are required for any worthwhile achievement. Any student, athlete, sportsman or musician will tell you that. Paul twice says “I press on” (12 and 11).
· His motivation is “to make it my own” (12) or “the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (14). To enter into all God has for us and to receive all God wants to give us should be our great motivation to go on in discipleship.
· His determination ‑ “one thing I do” (13). Are we “minding the one thing” ‑ cf.2:2?
· His resources ‑ “because Christ Jesus has made me his own”. That is how he can enter into the full possession of his Christian potential.
* DISCUSSION: How can we concentrate on these things? How can we encourage one another?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
11. STAND FAST!
Passage: 3:17 ‑ 4:3
Introduction: This week’s section flows on naturally from realizing we have not “got it all”, but need to “press on”. It is an exhortation containing words of warning and words of encouragement. "Stand firm thus in the Lord" (4:1) is the key. However, is it referring back to chapter 3 or forward to Chapter 4 or both? Some translations (NIV?) see it as looking back. "That is how you should stand firm in the Lord, beloved''. Certainly by "pressing on", but specifically:
1. In our Manner of Life (17):
See how Paul again stresses the need for proper models of Christian living and lifestyle. “Join in imitating me” ‑ is that arrogance or an appropriate teaching/leadership function? Paul can in matter‑of-fact terms talk about “the right example we have set for you” (GNB). Notice the injunction: “Mark those who so live”. Are our lives consistent with our profession of faith ‑
* in positive holiness ‑ lives distinctive and different?
* in personal integrity - up and down people in a crooked world?
* in social involvement - committed to aid caring for others not merely selfishly self‑centred?
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another how you feel about modelling the Christian life ‑ both as needing models and as in turn being models.
2. In our Message of the Cross (18):
Here is one of Paul’s saddest and most solemn warnings: “Many . . . live as enemies of the Cross of Christ” not merely disregarding or disobeying it ‑ but by rejecting it.
· The Cross is a principle of belief - God's way of making us right with himself. It speaks of atonement, of grace, of repentance and faith.
· The Cross is a pattern of behaviour - See again Phil.2:5‑11. It speaks of self‑denial, of servanthood, of obedience, of costly service. It stands in contrast to the goals, ideas and lifestyle described in verse 19.
* DISCUSSION: Do you think this is too strong language to be a description of professed Christians?
3. In our Maintenance of Hope (20):
In contrast to those who are wholly engrossed in and taken up with the here‑and‑now or "the world", with "minds set on earthly things" (19) true believers look to the future.
* Their citizenship is in heaven. They live "here" but belong “there”.
* The promise of the Lord's return urges them on and keeps them faithful. Surely that word "await" implies longing. Note GNB ‑ “eagerly await”.
* The transformation they anticipate ‑ Christ will change our frail, earthly body to a body of glory, like his.
* His rule and reign ‑ whereby under his lordship he will subject everythingto himself.
* DISCUSSION: How can we live as resident aliens in the world and as citizens of heaven?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
12. KEEPING ON
Passage: 4: 1 - 7
Introduction: Too often there is a wrong contrast drawn between “decision” for Christ and "discipleship". Sometimes we polarise policies of evangelism and policies of nurture or Christian Education and Training. It is always both/and rather than either/or. Certainly the crisis of decision should lead into continuance or the Christian way. Commitment to Christ should flow on in growth in Christ. But how to keep on. See Paul's principles.
1. Dedication to the Lord:
"Stand fast" ‑ “stand firm in the Lord” (1). The principle of staying committed. The principle of renewing our commitment day by day.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another how a daily commitment of our lives to Christ would ease the burden of the long term pilgrimage.
2. Delight in the Lord:
“Rejoice in the Lord always” (4). Again, as the letter draws to its conclusion, comes this recurring emphasis. The old catechism says “Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever”. I think the enjoying beins now. Are we enjoying God? Do we rejoice in him and before him as his people? Are we characterised by rejoicing, praise and gladness or by moaning, whinging and complaining?
* DISCUSSION: What might it mean for you to "rejoice" in the Lord always?
3. Dependence upon the Lord:
It all hangs together.
* “Have no anxiety about anything” - no fretful care, no agonizing worry. The counsel of perfection or sanctified common sense cf Matt.6:25‑31; 1 Peter 5:7.
* “in everything” ‑ all the details of our days. All the issues of our lives.
* “by prayer and supplication” ‑ our requests!
* “with thanksgiving” ‑ put praise into it!
* “the Lord is at hand” ie. he is coming soon? or he is beside you now?
* DISCUSSION: Share a personal encouragement from verses 5 and 6.
4. Deliverance from the Lord:
“the peace of God” (7). This is a positive rather than a merely passive quality - cf John 14:27. It is a military metaphor of the vigilant sentry keeping guard.
* DISCUSSION: How can we experience and express this peace in our lives?
GREYFRIARS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Minister: Rev John Oliver Evans
PHILIPPIANS: THE JOYUL LETTER
13. THINK ON THESE THINGS
Passage: 4: 8 - 23
Introduction: See how the concluding section of the letter offers practical advice and insights gained from personal experience. Throughout there is ample evidence of his warm feelings for these friends and of his deep concern for them. He urges them to persevere in the faith and to keep on growing in Christian maturity.
1. The Christian's Principles (8‑9):
· A well‑known book has the title “The Christian Mind”. If the "mind" truly is the inner centre of our being, it is important. Reflect on Romans 12:2 ‑ the transformed or renewed mind and on Phil. 2:4 the mind of Christ.
· The mind‑set is crucial ‑ “think on/about these things”. This is not intended as idle day‑dreaming or vague, woolly thinking. It is dedicated, disciplined activity. “Fix your attention on....fill your thoughts with....”. These are the things which should mould our attitudes, our interests and our living. The good, the true, the lovely rather than "porneia" ‑ things which corrupt. We become what we think about!
· Put into Practice ‑ “what you have learned .... received....heard and seen ...”. Again the principle of Christian modelling is emphasised. We are encouraged and stimulated by Christian example.
* DISCUSSION: Share with one another some area you have had to "Think On" recently and its practical outcome.
2. The Christian's Perspective (10‑13):
* Contentment - Paul says: “I have learned” in verses 11 and 12. It is a kind of inner secret ‑ (cf. the Greek mystery religions). The world makes a cult of possessions, of plenty, of wealth, of success. Paul speaks of Christian contentment ‑ not the stoic virtue of self-reliance. He is beyond the touch of favourable or adverse circumstances. Compare Romans 8:28, 37‑39.
* Commitment - Verse 13 is the summary of his testimony and service. The secret is not our strength but Christ's.
* DISCUSSION: Share what you have learned of Christian contentment. In what circumstances might there be a holy discontent?
3. The Christian's Provision (14‑20):
· How warmly he speaks of their giving to him as part of their partnership in the Gospel (15). Their giving was repeated. It was given, not out of their excess but out of their little. See how he describes it in verse 18 “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice ...”.
· The corollary is that as we give to others our own needs will not be unmet. That is the thrust of verse 20; God is no man's debtor. How abundant is his provision ‑ “every need” and "according to his riches in glory".
* DISCUSSION: Share some experiences you have known of God's provision.