Philippians 2.3-4

Grace Bible Chapel

March 13, 2005

Philippians 2:3-4

The Considerations That Promote Unity

       I.   Introduction

            A.  1 John 4:7-11

            B.  Proverbs 6:16-19

     II.   Conditions for unity

    III.   Paul’s joy

    IV.   The manifestation of corporate unity

     V.   The considerations that promote unity

            A.  The mindset not to have

                  1.   Selfishness

                        a.   Meaning

                        b.   Its association – Romans 2:4-8

                        c.   Its appearance in the church

                              1)   2 Corinthians 12:19-20

                              2)   Philippians 1:17

                        d.   Its source

                              1)   Galatians 5:19-20

                              2)   James 3:14-16

                  2.   Empty conceit

                        a.   Meaning

                        b.   Contrasted with selfishness

            B.  The mindset to have

                  1.   Concerning self - humility

                        a.   The order

                              1)   Proverbs 15:33

                              2)   Proverbs 18:12

                        b.   The reward

                              1)   Zephaniah 2:3

                              2)   Proverbs 22:4

                        c.   The declaration from Jesus

                              1)   His teaching – Luke 18:9-14

                              2)   His example – Philippians 2:5-11

                        d.   Its association and demonstration

                              1)   Ephesians 4:1-3

                              2)   Colossians 3:12-14

                  2.   Concerning others

                        a.   Regard

                              1)   Meaning

                              2)   Philippians 3:7-8

                        b.   More important

                              1)   Meaning

                              2)   Philippians 3:8

                              3)   Philippians 4:7

                        c.   Looking out

    VI.   Conclusion and application                

            A   For the unbeliever

                  1.   John 5:39-44

                  2.   Matthew 11:28-30

            B.  1 Peter 5:5-6

            C.  Micah 6:1-8