The apostle Paul, imprisoned in Rome convinced he is “in chains for Christ” now addresses the Phillippian church about the Christian life style.
Previously Paul called upon his audience to conduct themselves according to the word of God, in a manner pleasing to God. Too few among us actually do so today…
In the following verses the apostle invites the Philippians to rejoice in the unity that is found within God’s church, within each member of the body of Jesus Christ.
“1 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” (Philippians 2:1-2)
There is in deed but one purpose for believers, to advance to gospel of Jesus Christ our lord and savior, to allow those living in darkness to cross over to the light. The mission of every Christian necessarily involves sharing the good news about God’s grace, His son Jesus Christ who was sent to die for our sins nailed to a cross and, more importantly, the fact anyone who believes in such a sacrifice will inherit eternal life in heaven.
“3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
Through this controversial scripture Paul calls on his readers to put themselves after those in need, to literally think of others before ourselves. In absolute contradiction to human nature which is based on survival, through faith in Jesus Christ Paul calls on the Philippians to step outside themselves and put others first, just as Jesus did while He walked among us.
“4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4)
Why should the interest of other Christians be important to us? Think about it. As we focus on other people’s needs and interest we have little time for self ambition. Looking our for others is a sign of maturity pleasing to God, a clear symbol of faith in Jesus Christ and an act of generosity certain to be rewarded in heaven.
Just as Jesus looked out for the interest of others, so should we.
“5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” (Philippians 2:5-7)
Here Paul calls on his readers to be Christ like, for our attitudes to imitate that of Jesus. The apostle describes Christ, both man and God, as a humble servant.
“8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8)
Facing one of the most painful, punishing deaths of all time Jesus did not divert from the divine path drawn by the hand of God. Rather in perfect obedience Christ fulfilled His mission which lead to His death so all believers could live.
“9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)
Because Jesus remained obedient until His death on the cross, God rewarded Him with a place along side Him in heaven, a seat and name above all others.
One day every knee will bow, every tongue will confess Jesus is Lord. Until that day I invite you to live your life according to the scripture herein, in reverence and humility as you serve God just as Jesus did.
Though the number of faithful servants are few, God promises the rewards that await these servants are plentiful. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
