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Philippians Chapter Two

Philippians 2

But this, too, produced its effects. The apostle desired that their joy should be full, and that unity among the Philippians should be perfect; for his absence had allowed some seeds of disunion and disaffection to germinate. Love had been sweetly and powerfully demonstrated by the gift they had sent to the apostle. Consolation in Christ, comfort of love, fellowship of the Spirit, tender mercies were displayed in it, giving him great joy. Let them then make this joy perfect by the full establishment of this same bond of love among themselves, by being of one accord, of one mind, having the same love for each other, being all like-minded, allowing no rivalship or vain-glory to display itself in any way. Such was the apostle's desire. Appreciating their love towards himself, he wished their happiness to be complete through the perfecting of that love among themselves: thus would his own joy be perfect. Beautiful and touching affection! It was love in him which, sensible to their love, thought only of them. How delicate the way in which a kindness, which precluded reproof, made a way for what really was one, and which a heart that added charity to brotherly love could not leave unuttered!

Now the means of this union, of the maintenance of this love, was found in the abnegation of self, in humility, in the spirit that humbles itself in order to serve. It was this which perfectly displayed itself in Christ, in contrast with the first Adam. The latter sought to make himself like God by robbery, when he was in the form of a man, and strove to exalt himself at God's expense; being at the same time disobedient unto death. Christ, on the contrary, when He was in the form of God, emptied Himself, through love, of all His outward glory, of the form of God, and took the form of a man; and, even when He was in the form of a man, still humbled Himself It was a second thing which He did in humbling Himself As God, He emptied Himself; as man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even to the death of the cross. God has highly exalted Him; for he who exalts himself shall be humbled? but he who humbles himself shall be exalted. Perfect love, glorious truth, precious obedience! A man by the just judgment and act of God is exalted to the right hand of the throne of the divine Majesty. What a truth is the Person of Christ! What a truth is this descent and ascension by which He fills all things as Redeemer and Lord of glory! God come down in love, man ascended in righteousness; entire love in coming down, entire obedience by love also. Worthy from all eternity as to His Person to be there, He is now as man exalted by God to His right hand. It is an act of righteousness on God's part that He is there; and our hearts can take part in it, rejoicing in His glory-rejoicing also that by grace we have part in it as to our own place.

His humiliation is a proof that He is God. God only could leave His first estate in the sovereign rights of His love; it is sin for any creature to do so. It is also a perfect love. But this proof is given, this love accomplished, in the fact that He is man. What a place has He acquired for us in Himself! But it is of Him, not of us who are its fruits, that the apostle thinks. He rejoices in the thought of Christ's exaltation. God has exalted Him to the highest place, and given Him a name which is above every name, so that everything in heaven and earth, and even in infernal regions, must bow before this exalted man, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

It will be remarked here, that it is the lordship of Christ that is presented in this passage, not His divinity in itself. His divinity is indeed the primary point of departure. All in fact has its origin there-the love, the self-renunciation, the humiliation, the marvellous condescension. Nothing of all this could have been, or would have its value, without the former; but it is of the Lord, complete in His Person in the position which He took as man-it is of Him who humbled Himself, who when He had gone down to the lowest possible place, was exalted by God; it is of Jesus, who could, without exalting Himself, be equal with God, but who emptied Himself, who went down even into death, that the apostle speaks: of Jesus, Lord of all, and who, thus exalted as man, shall be owned as Lord throughout the whole creation to the glory of God the Father. [1]

The apostle's heart enlarges whenever he speaks of the Lord Jesus; but he turns to the objects of his solicitude; and as he had spoken of the self-renunciation and the humiliation of Christ, as a means of union which would take all occasion from carnal rivalship, he has also been led to speak of the obedience of Christ in contrast with the first Adam and the flesh. He now applies this principle, also, for the instruction of the Philippians: "Wherefore," he says, "my beloved, as ye have always obeyed." And here the effect of his absence and removal from the work is introduced-"not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for," he adds, "it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do." That is to say, while he was among them he had laboured; now they were themselves engaged with the enemy, without the aid of Paul's presence and spiritual energy; but God Himself wrought in them, and they ought to work so much the more earnestly in that they found themselves in such a warfare, God Himself being engaged for them as acting in them for this conflict, and they themselves striving in their own persons, directly with the power of the enemy. This was not the moment to boast in their little gifts, on account of the absence of that which had thrown them into the shade, nor to be at strife among themselves. On the other hand, if they were deprived of Paul, they were not deprived of God. God Himself wrought in them. This is the great principle, and the great consolation of the epistle. The Christians, deprived of the important aid of the apostle, are cast more immediately on God. The apostle himself, separated from the assembly, finds his own consolation in God; and commits the assembly in its lack of his personal care, to God Himself, in whom he had himself found this consolation.

It is to be carefully remarked here, that it is the very opposite of an exhortation to our own working in contrast with God's effectual power. "Your own" is in contrast with Paul in his absence, who had laboured for them, because God did work in them to will and to do. They were to work, because, if Paul was absent, God wrought in them. I have noticed already that salvation, every blessing, is looked at everywhere in this epistle as at the end of the Christian's course, even the manifestation of their righteousness (chap. 3:9). This passage is an example. There are two ways the Christian is seen in the New Testament. In Christ-here is no progress, no question: he is accepted in Him-a complete, perfect, present state. But he is also a pilgrim upon earth, having to attain the goal: so always in Philippians. This gives occasion to every kind of exhortation, warning and "if." Thus he learns obedience and dependence-the two characteristics of the new man. But with this he is led to the sure infallible faithfulness of God to bring him through to the end, and bound to reckon on it. See 1 Corinthians 1:8, which I cite because they were going on very badly; but passages abound.

Diligence and earnestness ought to characterise the walk of Christians in these circumstances, in which immediate connection with God and personal conflict with the enemy have to be realised.

The apostle returns to the spirit of meekness and peace, in which the fruits of righteousness are sown. "Do all things," he says, "without murmurings and disputings, that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life": a very striking passage, because it will be found that in every member of the sentence it is an exact statement of what Christ was. Whatever may be the circumstances in which the assembly is found, such, as respects itself, should ever be its state and its walk. Grace sufficient for this is ever there in Christ.

Unity of spirit among themselves by grace, and a walk according to God, in order that they may be as heavenly lights amid the moral darkness of this world-always carrying, and thus holding forth, the word of life: such was the apostle's desire. They would thus give proof by the constancy and practical effect of their faith, that the apostle had not run or laboured in vain; and they would themselves be his glory in the day of Christ. Oh, if the assembly had continued such! Be that as it may, Christ will be glorified. The apostle thus unites his work and the reward in the day of Christ with the blessing of the assembly. He would not be separated from it in his death. This union of heart and faith is very touching. He presents himself as capable of being poured out (that is to say, his life) upon the sacrifice and service of the Philippians' faith. They had shewn their devotedness to Christ in thinking even of His servant; and he looks upon all their faith as an offering to the Saviour and to God; looking at them, Christ's people, as the substance of the offering, the great thing, himself only as a libation-his life poured out upon the offering. Perhaps his life would be poured out in the service of the gospel, to which they consecrated themselves on their part, and be a seal to this offering of theirs, which was dedicated to God by this sacred bond with the apostle. He rejoiced, if it were so, that his life was poured out: it would crown his work for the Gentiles. He desires too that they also in the same spirit should rejoice in the same thing. It was all one thing, their faith and his, and their common service, offered to God, and well-pleasing to Him; and the most exalted proof of it should be the source of the most sacred joy. This world was not the real scene of that which was going on: what we behold here in connection with the divine work is but the outside. The apostle speaks this language of faith, which ever sees things as before God.

Nevertheless his watchful care did not cease, although he committed the Philippians to God. It is always thus. The love and the faith which commit everything to God do not cease to think according to God of that which is dear to Him. Thus in 1 John, chapter 2, the apostle, while saying that the little children in Christ needed not that any one should teach them, yet instructs them with all tenderness and foresight. Here also the apostle, full of holy solicitude for these souls who were dear to Christ, hopes soon to send Timotheus that he may know their state. But the condition of things is evident. He sends Timotheus because he had no one else in whose heart the same feelings towards them flowed forth from the same spring of love. All sought their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. What an exercise for faith! But what an occasion for its exercise!

Still, with regard to Timotheus, these beloved Philippians should receive him with a heart that responded to the apostle's confidence. They knew how he had served Paul in the gospel The bonds of love in the gospel are but the stronger-God be praised-when all grows cold. And observe, that God carried on His work, when as to the common testimony of the assembly, everything failed through a coldness which oppressed the apostle's heart; for God does not weary in His work. This bond however does not fail here with the Philippians either. As soon as Paul knew how it would go with himself, he would send Timotheus to them; but, as he had said, he had confidence in the Lord that he himself should come shortly.

But there was also Epaphroditus, who had come from the Philippians to carry their testimonial of affection to the apostle; and who, the faithful instrument and expression of their love, had risked his own life and suffered from dangerous sickness, in order to accomplish their service. This fine testimony of christian love breaks out here on every side. Epaphroditus so counts upon the love of the Philippians, that he is much troubled, because they had heard he was sick. He reckons on the feeling they had towards him-the place he had in their affections. Would it not be thus with an affectionate son, who knew that his mother had heard such tidings of him? He would hasten to inform her of his recovery, in order to tranquillise a heart whose love he knew. Such is christian affection, tender and simple, confiding, because pure and unsuspicious, and walking in the light of God-walking with Him and in the affections which Christ had consecrated as man. Divine love, no doubt, goes higher; but brotherly love, which acts before men and as the fruit among men of that divine love, displays itself thus in grace.

The apostle responds to this affection of the Philippians for him who taught them and laboured in the Lord for them (the Holy Ghost also remembers it here), and he sends back Epaphroditus, encouraging and seeking to sustain this feeling in the heart of the Philippians. He takes part in it himself, and brings into it God's own tender love. Paul would have had sorrow upon sorrow (and he had much already), if the Philippians had lost their beloved servant and messenger by means of the services he had rendered them; but God had spared Epaphroditus and the apostle himself. He would however have them assured of it by the presence of Epaphroditus again among them; and thus the apostle's own heart freed from all anxiety, would be also relieved. What a picture of mutual love and kind solicitude!

And observe the ways in which God, according to the apostle, takes part in it. What are presented to us here are His compassions, not the counsels of His love, but compassions worthy of God, and affections of which He approves among men. These affections and this value for labourers are sometimes feared; and so much the more so, because the assembly has in fact to disentangle itself from all false dependence on man. But it is in the entire failure of manifested strength and outward organised bond, through the apostle's absence, that the Spirit of God develops the play of these inward affections and bonds for the instruction of the assembly; as he acknowledges all that remains of the ruins of its primitive position and its outward bonds. He does not create these anew; but he acknowledges that which still exists. It is only the first verse of the epistle which speaks of this-no more was needed; but the inward bonds he develops largely, not as doctrine, but as fact. God Himself, the apostle, his faithful Timotheus, the valued servant of the Philippians, who was so dear to them, and the fellow-labourer of Paul, the servant of the Lord, the Philippians themselves, all have their part in this precious and beautiful chain of love. The graciousness of the christian life is thus developed in every part of this chapter; the delicacy of his reproof of the spirit of division; his sending Timothy when he can let them know how it went with him, but Epaphroditus at once because they had heard he had been sick. This graciousness, and consideration of others, note, connects itself with a Christ who humbles Himself. A lowly Christ humbling Himself from Godhead-form down to death, is the spring oflowly graciousness; an exalted One sought in glory, the spring of energy which counts all to be dross and dung to win Him.

After all it was in the Lord Himself that they had to rejoice, and the apostle now puts them on their guard against that which had eaten away the life of the assembly, and produced the painful fruits that filled his heart with anguish, and the deplorable consequences of which we see at this day, even as he foretold-consequences which will yet ripen for the judgment of God. Be this as it may, the Lord does not change. "Rejoice," he says, "in the Lord." There all is sure.

That which might prevent their thus rejoicing is developed, as well as the true knowledge of Christ, which preserves us from it: not here according to the doctrine and the practice that belong to the high position of the assembly's union with a glorified Christ as His body, nor according to the unity which flows from it. This is the subject of the Ephesians. Neither is it according to the urgent necessity of cleaving to the Head, because all fulness is in Him. This is the instruction of the epistle to the Colossians. But, in accordance with the general character of the epistle, the subject is here treated in connection with the personal experiences of the Christian, and, in particular, of the apostle. Accordingly-as was seen in his personal combats and sorrow-he finds himself on the road to the full enjoyment of this object whom he has learnt to know, and the state which his heart desires. This ought to be the Christian's experience, for, if I am united by the Spirit to the Head as a member of the body of Christ, and if by faith I apprehend this union, it is none the less true that my personal experience (although this faith is its basis) is necessarily in connection with the paths which I follow in order to reach the glory this entitles me to. Not that the sentiments awakened by that which I encounter on this path either falsify or contradict my position in Christ, or destroy the certainty of my starting-point. But, while possessing this certainty, and because I possess it, I know that I have not in fact reached the result of this position in glory. Now, in this epistle, we are on the road, we are individualised in our relations with God; for experience is always individual, although our union with each other as members of Christ forms a part of this experience.

Footnotes

[1] Observe also, that it is not with regard to that which He suffered, as the effect of His submission to the will of God in the position which He took, that Christ is here presented as our pattern. It is in His voluntary humiliation, the fact that in love He took the last-the lowest-place, that we are called to follow Him. Love serves, love humbles itself-readily takes the meanest position (meanest according to the pride of man) in order to serve, and delights in it. Christ acted from love; He chose to serve. Christ chose to take the low place-He who was able to humble Himself-and we?

── John Darby《Synopsis of Philippians》

Philippians 2

Chapter Contents

Exhortations to a kind, humble spirit and behaviour. (1-4) The example of Christ. (5-11) Diligence in the affairs of salvation, and to be examples to the world. (12-18) The apostle's purpose of visiting Philippi. (19-30)

Commentary on Philippians 2:1-4

(Read Philippians 2:1-4)

Here are further exhortations to Christian duties; to like-mindedness and lowly-mindedness, according to the example of the Lord Jesus. Kindness is the law of Christ's kingdom, the lesson of his school, the livery of his family. Several motives to brotherly love are mentioned. If you expect or experience the benefit of God's compassions to yourselves, be compassionate one to another. It is the joy of ministers to see people like-minded. Christ came to humble us, let there not be among us a spirit of pride. We must be severe upon our own faults, and quick in observing our own defects, but ready to make favourable allowances for others. We must kindly care for others, but not be busy-bodies in other men's matters. Neither inward nor outward peace can be enjoyed, without lowliness of mind.

Commentary on Philippians 2:5-11

(Read Philippians 2:5-11)

The example of our Lord Jesus Christ is set before us. We must resemble him in his life, if we would have the benefit of his death. Notice the two natures of Christ; his Divine nature, and human nature. Who being in the form of God, partaking the Divine nature, as the eternal and only-begotten Son of God, John 1:1, had not thought it a robbery to be equal with God, and to receive Divine worship from men. His human nature; herein he became like us in all things except sin. Thus low, of his own will, he stooped from the glory he had with the Father before the world was. Christ's two states, of humiliation and exaltation, are noticed. Christ not only took upon him the likeness and fashion, or form of a man, but of one in a low state; not appearing in splendour. His whole life was a life of poverty and suffering. But the lowest step was his dying the death of the cross, the death of a malefactor and a slave; exposed to public hatred and scorn. The exaltation was of Christ's human nature, in union with the Divine. At the name of Jesus, not the mere sound of the word, but the authority of Jesus, all should pay solemn homage. It is to the glory of God the Father, to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord; for it is his will, that all men should honour the Son as they honour the Father, John 5:23. Here we see such motives to self-denying love as nothing else can supply. Do we thus love and obey the Son of God?

Commentary on Philippians 2:12-18

(Read Philippians 2:12-18)

We must be diligent in the use of all the means which lead to our salvation, persevering therein to the end. With great care, lest, with all our advantages, we should come short. Work out your salvation, for it is God who worketh in you. This encourages us to do our utmost, because our labour shall not be in vain: we must still depend on the grace of God. The working of God's grace in us, is to quicken and engage our endeavours. God's good-will to us, is the cause of his good work in us. Do your duty without murmurings. Do it, and do not find fault with it. Mind your work, and do not quarrel with it. By peaceableness; give no just occasion of offence. The children of God should differ from the sons of men. The more perverse others are, the more careful we should be to keep ourselves blameless and harmless. The doctrine and example of consistent believers will enlighten others, and direct their way to Christ and holiness, even as the light-house warns mariners to avoid rocks, and directs their course into the harbour. Let us try thus to shine. The gospel is the word of life, it makes known to us eternal life through Jesus Christ. Running, denotes earnestness and vigour, continual pressing forward; labouring, denotes constancy, and close application. It is the will of God that believers should be much in rejoicing; and those who are so happy as to have good ministers, have great reason to rejoice with them.

Commentary on Philippians 2:19-30

(Read Philippians 2:19-30)

It is best with us, when our duty becomes natural to us. Naturally, that is, sincerely, and not in pretence only; with a willing heart and upright views. We are apt to prefer our own credit, ease, and safety, before truth, holiness, and duty; but Timothy did not so. Paul desired liberty, not that he might take pleasure, but that he might do good. Epaphroditus was willing to go to the Philippians, that he might be comforted with those who had sorrowed for him when he was sick. It seems, his illness was caused by the work of God. The apostle urges them to love him the more on that account. It is doubly pleasant to have our mercies restored by God, after great danger of their removal; and this should make them more valued. What is given in answer to prayer, should be received with great thankfulness and joy.

── Matthew Henry《Concise Commentary on Philippians》

Philippians 2

Verse 1

[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,

If there be therefore any consolation — In the grace of Christ.

If any comfort — In the love of God. If any fellowship of the Holy Ghost; if any bowels of mercies - Resulting therefrom; any tender affection towards each other.

Verse 2

[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

Think the same thing — Seeing Christ is your common Head.

Having the same love — To God, your common Father.

Being of one soul — Animated with the same affections and tempers, as ye have all drank ill to one spirit.

Of one mind — Tenderly rejoicing and grieving together.

Verse 3

[3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Do nothing through contention — Which is inconsistent with your thinking the same thing.

Or vainglory — Desire of praise, which is directly opposite to the love of God.

But esteem each the others better than themselves — (For every one knows more evil of himself than he can of another:) Which is a glorious fruit of the Spirit, and an admirable help to your continuing "of one soul."

Verse 4

[4] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Aim not every one at his own things — Only. If so, ye have not bowels of mercies.

Verse 6

[6] Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Who being in the essential form — The incommunicable nature.

Of God — From eternity, as he was afterward in the form of man; real God, as real man.

Counted it no act of robbery — That is the precise meaning of the words,-no invasion of another's prerogative, but his own strict and unquestionable right.

To be equal with God — the word here translated equal, occurs in the adjective form five or six times in the New Testament, Matthew 20:12; Luke 6:34; John 5:18; Acts 11:17; Revelation 21:16. In all which places it expresses not a bare resemblance, but a real and proper equalitg. It here implies both the fulness and the supreme height of the Godhead; to which are opposed, he emptied and he humbled himself.

Verse 7

[7] But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Yet — He was so far from tenaciously insisting upon, that he willingly relinquished, his claim. He was content to forego the glories of the Creator, and to appear in the form of a creature; nay, to he made in the likeness of the fallen creatures; and not only to share the disgrace, but to suffer the punishment, due to the meanest and vilest among them all.

He emptied himself — Of that divine fulness, which he received again at his exaltation. Though he remained full, John 1:14, yet he appeared as if he had been empty; for he veiled his fulness from the sight of men and angels. Yea, he not only veiled, but, in some sense, renounced, the glory which he had before the world began.

Taking — And by that very act emptying himself.

The form of a servant — The form, the likeness, the fashion, though not exactly the same, are yet nearly related to each other. The form expresses something absolute; the likeness refers to other things of the same kind; the fashion respects what appears to sight and sense.

Being made in the likeness of men — A real man, like other men. Hereby he took the form of a servant.

Verse 8

[8] And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

And being found in fashion as a man — A common man, without any peculiar excellence or comeliness.

He humbled himself — To a still greater depth.

Becoming obedient — To God, though equal with him.

Even unto death — The greatest instance both of humiliation and obedience.

Yea, the death of the cross — Inflicted on few but servants or slaves.

Verse 9

[9] Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

Wherefore — Because of his voluntary humiliation and obedience. He humbled himself; but God hath exalted him - So recompensing his humiliation.

And hath given him — So recompensing his emptying himself.

A name which is above every name — Dignity and majesty superior to every creature.

Verse 10

[10] That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

That every knee — That divine honour might be paid in every possible manner by every creature.

Might bow — Either with love or trembling.

Of those in heaven, earth, under the earth — That is, through the whole universe.

Verse 11

[11] And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

And every tongue — Even of his enemies.

Confess that Jesus Christ is Lord — Jehovah; not now "in the form of a servant," but enthroned in the glory of God the Father.

Verse 12

[12] Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

Wherefore — Having proposed Christ's example, he exhorts them to secure the salvation which Christ has purchased.

As ye have always — Hitherto.

Obeyed — Both God, and me his minister.

Now in my absence — When ye have not me to instruct, assist, and direct you.

Work out your own salvation — Herein let every man aim at his own things.

With fear and trembling — With the utmost care and diligence.

Verse 13

[13] For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

For it is God — God alone, who is with you, though I am not.

That worketh in you according to his good pleasure — Not for any merit of yours. Yet his influences are not to supersede, but to encourage, our own efforts.

Work out your own salvation — Here is our duty.

For it is God that worketh in you — Here is our encouragement. And O, what a glorious encouragement, to have the arm of Omnipotence stretched out for our support and our succour!

Verse 14

[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

Do all things — Not only without contention, Philippians 2:3, but even without murmurings and disputings - Which are real, though smaller, hinderances of love.

Verse 15

[15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

That ye may be blameless — Before men.

And simple — Before God, aiming at him alone.

As the sons of God — The God of love; acting up to your high character.

Unrebukable in the midst of a crooked — Guileful, serpentine, and perverse generation - Such as the bulk of mankind always were.

Crooked — By a corrupt nature, and yet more perverse by custom and practice.

Verse 17

[17] Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

Here he begins to treat of the latter clause of Philippians 1:22.

Yea, and if I be offered — Literally, If I be poured out.

Upon the sacrifice of your faith — The Philippians, as the other converted heathens, were a sacrifice to God through St. Paul's ministry, Romans 15:16. And as in sacrificing, wine was poured at the foot of the altar, so he was willing that his blood should be poured out. The expression well agrees with that kind of martyrdom by which he was afterwards offered up to God.

Verse 18

[18] For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

Congratulate me — When I am offered up.

Verse 19

[19] But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

When I know — Upon my return, that ye stand steadfast.

Verse 20

[20] For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

I have none — Of those who are now with me.

Verse 21

[21] For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

For all — But Timotheus.

Seek their own — Ease, safety, pleasure, or profit. Amazing! In that golden age of the church, could St. Paul throughly approve of one only, among all the labourers that were with him? Philippians 1:14,17. And how many do we think can now approve themselves to God? Not the things of Jesus Christ - They who seek these alone, will sadly experience this. They will find few helpers likeminded with themselves, willing naked to follow a naked Master.

Verse 22

[22] But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.

As a son with his father — He uses an elegant peculiarity of phrase, speaking partly as of a son, partly as of a fellowlabourer.

Verse 25

[25] Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

To send Epaphroditus — Back immediately.

Your messenger — The Philippians had sent him to St. Paul with their liberal contribution.

Verse 26

[26] For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.

He was full of heaviness — Because he supposed you would be afflicted at hearing that he was sick.

Verse 27

[27] For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

God had compassion on him — Restoring him to health.

Verse 28

[28] I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.

That I may be the less sorrowful — When I know you are rejoicing.

Verse 30

[30] Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

To supply your deficiency of service — To do what you could not do in person.

── John Wesley《Explanatory Notes on Philippians》

Chapter 2. The Example of Believers

Look to Your Own Interests
Look to the Interests of Others

I. Your Mind be the Same as That of Christ

1. Christ Empties Himself
2. Paul Gives Up Himself
3. Shining as Stars

II. timothy Is without Himself

1. Seek the things of Christ
2. Care for the Church
3. As a Son with His Father

III. Epaphroditus Forgets Himself

1. Risk His Life
2. Long for All of You
3. Supply to the Lord's Servant

── Chih-Hsin Chang《An Outline of The New Testament》
 
Chapter Two General Review
 
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
 
1) To appreciate the importance of unity, and how it can be maintained
 by following Jesus' example of humility
 
2) To understand what is involved in "shining as lights in the world"
 
SUMMARY
 
The first chapter included an exhortation to stand fast in one spirit,
with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel (1:27). 
Paul continues with the call for unity, providing reasons why we should
desire unity, the nature of our unity, and attitudes necessary to 
maintain unity (1-4). Stressing the need for humility and sacrificial 
service towards others, Paul appeals to the example of Christ and
expounds upon how far Christ was willing to go to save us (5-11).
 
He continues with another exhortation to "shine as lights in the world"
as they work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. Doing 
all things without complaining and arguing, while holding fast the word
of life, they will prove themselves to be children of God in the midst
of a crooked and perverse generation. This will also prove to Paul 
that his labors have not been in vain, and any persecution he endures 
is viewed as a sacrifice in the service of their faith and a cause for
mutual rejoicing (12-18).
 
He then writes of his plans pertaining to Timothy and Epaphroditus. He
will send Timothy shortly, that he might know of their condition. But 
Epaphroditus is coming at once in order to set their hearts at ease
about Epaphroditus' brush with death due to a recent illness. (19-30)
 
OUTLINE
 
I. EXHORTATION TO UNITY (1-11)
 
 A. THE MOTIVATION FOR UNITY (1)
 1. The consolation we have in Christ
 2. The comfort found in love
 3. The fellowship we have in the Spirit
 4. The affection and mercy we can enjoy
 
 B. THE NATURE OF UNITY (2)
 1. Being of like mind, having the same love
 2. Of one accord, of one mind
 
 C. ATTITUDES FOR MAINTAINING UNITY (3-5)
 1. Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit (3a)
 2. With lowliness of mind let each one esteem others better than
 himself (3b)
 3. Be concerned for the interest of others (4)
 4. Let the mind that was in Christ be in you (5)
 
 D. JESUS AS AN EXAMPLE OF UNSELFISH HUMILITY (6-11)
 1. Though He was Deity, He was willing to come in the likeness of
 man (6-7)
 2. As a man He humbled Himself in obedience to the point of dying
 on the cross (8)
 3. Therefore God highly exalted Him so that at His name all
 should bow and confess Him to be Lord (9-11)
 
II. EXHORTATION TO SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (12-18)
 
 A. BY WORKING OUT THEIR OWN SALVATION (12-13)
 1. Doing so with fear and trembling (12)
 2. Remembering that God is at work in them (13)
 
 B. AS CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT (14-16)
 1. Doing all things without murmuring and complaining (14)
 2. Blameless and harmless in the midst of a crooked and perverse
 generation (15)
 3. Holding fast the word of life, so that Paul may rejoice in the
 day of Christ (16)
 
 C. VIEWING PAUL'S PERSECUTION AS A REASON TO REJOICE (17-18)
 1. He views it as a "sacrifice", offered in the service of their
 faith (17a)
 2. For this he is glad, and calls upon them to rejoice with him
 (17b-18)
 
III. PLANS INVOLVING TIMOTHY AND EPAPHRODITUS (19-30)
 
 A. TO SEND TIMOTHY SOON (19-24)
 1. That Paul might be encouraged when he learns of their 
 condition (19)
 2. His commendation of Timothy, as one who seeks the things of
 Christ, and who serves with Paul in the gospel as a son with
 his father (20-22)
 3. He will be sent at once, as soon as Paul knows how things will
 go with him, and he himself hopes to come shortly (23-24)
 
 B. TO SEND EPAPHRODITUS AT ONCE (25-30)
 1. Because of his longing for them and his distress when they
 heard he was sick (25-27)
 2. So he is coming that they might rejoice, and Paul himself will
 be less sorrowful (28)
 3. Therefore receive him in the Lord with all gladness, and hold
 such men in high esteem for their sacrificial service to 
 Christ and others (29-30)
 
REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
 
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
 - Exhortation to unity (1-11)
 - Exhortation to shine as lights in the world (12-18)
 - Plans involving Timothy and Epaphroditus (19-30)
 
2) What four things should serve as a motivation for unity? (1)
 - The consolation we have in Christ
 - The comfort found in love
 - The fellowship we have in the Spirit
 - The affection and mercy we can enjoy
 
3) What should be the nature of our unity? (2)
 - Being of like mind, having the same love, of one accord, of one
 mind
 
4) What four things are necessary to maintain unity? (3-5)
 - Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit
 - With lowliness of mind let each one esteem others better than
 himself
 - Be concerned for the interest of others
 - Let the mind that was in Christ be in you
 
5) What is said about Christ that proves Him to be a prime example of
 humility? (5-8)
 - Though in the form of God, He did not consider it "robbery" to be
 equal to God
 - Made Himself of no reputation, becoming a servant and coming in
 the likeness of men
 - He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of dying on
 the cross
 
6) Having been highly exalted, what should every person do at the name
 of Jesus? (9-11)
 - Every knee should bow
 - Every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the 
 glory of God the Father
 
7) What did Paul want his beloved brethren to do in his absence? (12)
 - To work out their own salvation with fear and trembling
 
8) What is said about God working in the Christian? (13)
 - He works in us both to will and to do for His good pleasure
 
9) What two things are necessary if we are to be children of God 
 without fault, harmless and blameless, shining as lights in the 
 world? (14-16)
 - Do all things without murmuring and disputing
 - Hold fast the word of life
 
10) How did Paul view his imprisonment? (17)
 - As being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and 
 service of their faith
 - As a reason to be glad and rejoice
 
11) What two things are said about Timothy? (20, 22)
 - Paul had no one like-minded, who would sincerely care their state
 - He had proven character, having served with Paul in the gospel as
 a son with his father
 
12) How does Paul describe Epaphroditus? (23)
 - A brother, a fellow worker and fellow soldier, their messenger,
 and the one who ministered to Paul's need
 
The Unity That Produces Joy (2:1-4)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. At this point in his epistle to the Philippians, Paul is exhorting
 his brethren in regards to Christian living
 
2. In the previous section, we noticed that he encouraged them to
 manifest "Conduct Worthy Of The Gospel" (1:27-30)
 
3. In our text for this study, Paul exhorts them to manifest "The Unity
 That Produces Joy" (2:1-4)
 
4. In doing so, Paul describes three aspects of such unity:
 a. The MOTIVATION for having unity that produces joy (1)
 b. The NATURE of unity that produces joy (2)
 c. The ATTITUDES required for unity that produces joy (3,4)
 
[As we begin, let's carefully consider Paul's description of...]
 
I. THE "MOTIVATION" FOR HAVING UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (1)
 
 A. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY "CONSOLATION IN CHRIST"?
 1. When Paul says "if there is any consolation...", he is not
 doubting that there is
 a. This is a common use of the conditional "if...then" where
 given the reality of the "if" clause, "then" a point should
 naturally follow
 b. For example, consider Ga 3:29...
 1) Where Paul wrote "If you are Christ's, then..."
 2) The "if" does not suggest doubt that they could be
 Christ's for in the previous verse he said that they
 were!
 c. In such cases, the "if" means the same thing as "since"
 2. Indeed, there is MUCH consolation (comfort) to be found in
 Christ!
 a. As expressed to the brethren at Thessalonica, there is
 consolation from Christ in "every good word and work"
 - 2 Th 2:16-17
 b. And as written to the Corinthians, such consolation abounds
  even in the midst of tribulation - 2 Co 1:3-5
 
 B. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY "COMFORT OF LOVE"?
 1. Do we not enjoy any comfort that comes from love?
 2. Does not the love that comes from God, Christ, the Holy Spirit,
 and even our brethren provide any comfort? - again, cf. 2 Co
 1:3-5
 3. Indeed, it does to those who will receive it!
 
 C. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY "FELLOWSHIP OF THE SPIRIT"?
 1. Indeed, all who have been baptized into Christ has received the
 gift of the Holy Spirit - Ac 2:38-39; 5:32
 2. As the church (the temple of God), the Spirit dwells in us 
 - 1 Co 3:16
 3. Even our individual bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit 
 - 1 Co 6:19
 4. Not only by the Spirit have we all been baptized into one body,
 but have all been made to drink of the one Spirit - 1 Co 12:13
 cf. Jn 7:37-39
 5. Indeed there is a true "communion of the Holy Spirit" available
 for Christians - 2 Co 13:14
 
 D. DO WE NOT HAVE ANY "AFFECTION AND MERCY"?
 1. There is the "affection" that comes from Jesus and from other
 brethren - e.g., Ph 1:8
 2. There is the "mercy" that comes from our loving Father in
 heaven - Ep 2:4-7
 
[Enjoying all these benefits, should they not serve to encourage us to 
have "The Unity That Produces Joy"? It certainly moved Paul to write 
and encourage the Philippians toward this "unity"!
 
But exactly what kind of unity is it that produces joy...?]
 
II. THE "NATURE" OF THE UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (2)
 
 A. IT INVOLVES "BEING LIKE-MINDED"...
 1. Which means to "think the same thing"
 2. That this is a necessary quality of unity is evident from
 Paul's comments in 1 Co 1:10
 
 B. IT INVOLVES "HAVING THE SAME LOVE"...
 1. This is a natural consequence if we are first "like-minded"
 2. Having the same love, we will love:
 a. The same things, in matters pertaining to Christ and His
 church!
 b. One another with the same kind of love
 1) Our love for one another will be of the same kind: 
 sincere, fervert, and from a pure heart - 1 Pe 1:23
 2) Our love for one another will be mutual, not one-sided,
 as is often the case
 
  C. IT INVOLVES "BEING OF ONE ACCORD"...
 1. Literally, "of one soul; having your souls joined together"
 2. It suggests acting together as if ONE soul is driving them
 3. Therefore, working together in complete harmony, not as
 separate entities going our separate ways
 
 D. IT INVOLVES BEING "OF ONE MIND"...
 1. The NASV says "intent on one purpose"
 2. Not only working together outwardly, but inwardly, having the
 same purpose and intentions
 
[When such conditions exist in a local congregation, then "The Unity 
That Produces Joy" will be fully experienced!
 
But what are the attitudes required for having such unity?]
 
III. THE "ATTITUDES" REQUIRED FOR THE UNITY THAT PRODUCES JOY (3,4)
 
 A. "LET NOTHING BE DONE THROUGH SELFISH AMBITION OR CONCEIT"...
 1. First, it is necessary to point out those attitudes we should
 NOT have!
 2. Possessing these attitudes will destroy unity
 a. For both involve "self-centered" attitude
 b. Rather than a "Christ-centered" attitude
 3. Therefore, it is required that we rid ourselves of:
 a. The DESIRE FOR EXALTING SELF ("selfish ambition")
 b. The IMPROPER ESTIMATION OF SELF ("conceit")
 4. In place of these, we should substitute...
 
 B. "LOWLINESS OF MIND"...
 1. In other words, humility
 2. This will effectively replace the problem of "conceit"
 3. Humility should be easy to maintain if we remember our own
 faults
 
 C. "LET EACH ESTEEM OTHERS BETTER THAN HIMSELF"...
 1. This should be easy for us to do...
 a. For we are aware of our own defects, but we do not have the
 same clear view of the defects of others
 b. We can only see their OUTWARD conduct; in our case, we can
 look WITHIN
 c. We see our own hearts, with all its faults; we cannot so
 look into the hearts of others
 2. In writing to the brethren at Rome, Paul exhorted them to outdo
 one another in this regard - "in honor giving preference to one
 another" - Ro 12:10b
 
 D. "LOOK OUT...FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS"...
 1. This attitude eliminates the problem of "selfish ambition"
 2. It is the attitude of MATURITY, and was the attitude of Christ!
 - Ro 15:1-3
 3. So it should be the attitude of every Christian!
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. These attitudes are essential if we are going to have "The Unity That
 Produces Joy"!
 
2. This is not to suggest that these attitudes ALONE will bring about
 such unity...
 a. For "The Unity That Produces Joy" comes only when it it is unity
 based upon the truths Jesus taught
 b. These attitudes without that truth will only produce a false sense
 of joy
 c. But without these attitudes, holding to the truth itself will not
 give us the joy we seek!
 
Therefore, let us "fulfill our joy" by making sure that we manifest
these attitudes as we attempt to live according to the truth that is in
Jesus!

The Mind Of Christ (2:5-11)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. In verses 1-4 of this second chapter, Paul wrote about "The Unity
 That Produces Joy", in which he described:
 a. The MOTIVATION for having this unity
 b. The NATURE of this unity
 c. The ATTITUDES necessary to have this unity
 
2. In describing the latter, he called upon the Philippians to:
 a. Do nothing through selfish ambition or conceit
 b. Have lowliness of mind in which they esteem others better than
 themselves
 c. Look out for the interests of others, and not only those of their
 own
 
3. In verse 5, Paul continues to exhort them to have "this mind" (the
 attitudes of verses 3-4), pointing out that this is also the "mind of
 Christ"
 
4. In the following verses (6-11), Paul elaborates on the "mind of
 Christ" (or the attitude of Christ), which will serve as the focus of
 this particular study...
 
[First, note that "The Mind Of Christ"...]
 
I. LACKED SELFISH AMBITION OR CONCEIT (6)
 
 A. PRIOR TO HIS INCARNATION...
 1. Jesus was "in the form of God"
 a. That is, "He existed as essentially one with God" (Vincent's
 Word Studies)
 b. This is in accord with what we read in Jn 1:1-3
 2. He was also "equal with God"
 a. Again notice Jn 1:1
 b. He certainly shared similar glory with the Father (Jn 17:5),
 something the Father refused to share with any created being
 (cf. Isa 42:8)
 
 B. YET CHRIST DID NOT CONSIDER SUCH EQUALITY "ROBBERY"...
 1. Literally, "a thing to be grasped"; that is, something to be
 laid hold of, and retained jealously
 2. The "glory" of equality with God which Christ enjoyed from
 eternity was not something He felt like He HAD to cling on to
 3. A true demonstration of a lack of selfish ambition and conceit
 on the part of our Lord!
 
 C. DO WE HAVE "THE MIND OF CHRIST"?
 1. Do we consider our "standing" before others (whatever that may
 be) something to be held on to?
 2. Do we consider ourselves more important than others, and
 consider that distinction something to be preserved at all
 costs?
 -- IF SO, THEN WE LACK "THE MIND OF CHRIST"!
 
[As we continue to read on in our text, we see also that "The Mind Of 
Christ"...]
 
II. LOOKED OUT FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS (7-8)
 
 A. WHEN CHRIST BECAME FLESH...
 1. He "made Himself of no reputation"
 a. Some versions say "emptied Himself"
 b. He divested Himself of the "glory" He had with the Father 
 - cf. Jn 17:5
 2. He took upon Himself "the form of a servant"
 a. He did not come as a "king", "nobleman", etc.
 b. But as the lowly son of a simple carpenter
 3. He came "in the likeness of men"
 a. As such, He could experience their temptations and
 sufferings - He 2:14,17-18; 4:15; 5:7
 b. In other words, though deity, He was truly "man" (not some
 sort of "superman")
 4. He "humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death,
 even the death of the cross"
 a. Consider He 5:8
 b. Though in every way a man like you or me (while still the
 Son of God), He humbled Himself and obediently suffered and
 died on the cross!
 -- WHY DID JESUS DO ALL THIS?
 
 B. HE DID IT ALL FOR THE SAKE OF OTHERS!
 1. He became man, humbled himself as a man, was obedient, and then
 died on the cross...because it was in our own best interest!
 2. He did it, to bear OUR reproach - cf. Ro 15:1-3; Isa 53:4-6
  3. Yes, He was looking out for OUR interests!
 
 C. DO WE HAVE "THE MIND OF CHRIST"?
 1. We do, if we are looking out for the interests of others
 2. We do, if we are willing to humble ourselves, even sacrifice
 ourselves if it be in the best interests of others - cf. 1 Jn
 3:16
 
[Such is "The Mind Of Christ", one of humility and service to others; 
but it is also one that is...]
 
III. HIGHLY EXALTED BY GOD (9-11)
 
 A. IN THE CASE OF JESUS...
 1. He is a good example of the Scriptural maxim: "He that humbles
 himself shall be exalted"
 2. For God has highly exalted Jesus in two ways:
 a. In the PRESENT - by giving Him "the name which is above
 every name" (the name by which men must be saved - Ac 4:12)
 b. In the FUTURE - that at His name "every knee should bow...
 that every tongue should confess" He is Lord! - Re 5:11-14
 
 B. BUT ALSO IN OUR CASE...
 1. Those who possess "The Mind Of Christ" will participate in that
 great future exaltation of Christ! - Ro 8:16-18; 2 Th 1:10-12
 2. Isn't this a wonderful motivator for us to have "The Mind Of
 Christ"?
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. We have seen in this passage that "The Mind Of Christ" involves...
 a. Humility
 b. Obedience
 c. Sacrifice
 d. Great Reward
 
2. Do we possess "The Mind Of Christ"? We should, for it is the "key"
 to:
 a. The unity that produces joy!
 b. One day sharing in "glory" together with Christ!
 
3. As Christians, let's be diligent to manifest "The Mind Of Christ" in
 our relationship to God and to each other
 
If you are not a Christian, why not begin possessing "The Mind of
Christ" by following His example of humble obedience to the Will of God?

Work Out Your Own Salvation (2:12-18)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. One of the things that interests me about Paul's writings is that he
 is intensely practical
 
2. He always relates...
 a. Doctrine and duty
 b. Creed and character
 c. Faith and life
 ...to him, these are inseparable!
 
3. So it is now, that having described the example of Christ, he bases
 upon that example his exhortation to earnest endeavor towards
 spiritual progress (Ph 2:12-18)
 
4. In this passage, Paul exhorts Christians to "Work Out Your Own
 Salvation"; in this lesson, there are several observations I would
 like to make concerning what this involves
 
[First, consider that as you "Work Out Your Own Salvation" that...]
 
I. THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF OBEDIENCE (12a)
 
 A. THAT DONE ONLY IN THE PRESENCE OF OTHERS...
 1. This is a very common form of obedience
 a. Done only when others are around
 b. Because we fear what others might think if we don't behave a
 certain way
 2. Yet Paul did not want the Philippians' obedience to be of this
 sort
 a. For then it would only be what he calls elsewhere
 "eye-service" - cf. Co 3:22
 b. Their faith would then be an "environmental faith" (a faith
 which is active only if the environment is conducive to it)
 
 B. THAT DONE IN THE ABSENCE OF OTHERS...
 1. This is the proper form of obedience
 a. Done to please God, conscience, and no one else!
 b. This type of obedience remains faithful no matter what
 others do or think
 2. It is this type of obedience...
 a. That Paul hoped for in the lives of his beloved friends
 b. That we should render in our service to the Lord and His
 cause
 
[Secondly, we should also bear in mind that as you "Work Out Your Own
Salvation"...]
 
II. IT INVOLVES THE WORKING OF BOTH MAN AND GOD (12b-13)
 
 A. MAN HAS A ROLE TO PLAY IN HIS SALVATION...
 1. He must "work out" his salvation
 a. As Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost - Ac 2:40
  b. And also wrote later to Christians - 2 Pe 1:10
 -- Therefore man is not totally passive (or helpless) when it
 comes to his salvation!
 2. He must also have "fear and trembling" in working out his
 salvation
 a. There is a place for the right kind of fear in the life of a
 Christian
 1) The "fear of the Lord" is the beginning of knowledge
 - Pr 1:7
 2) The "fear of the Lord" will cause one to hate evil
  - Pr 8:13
 3) The "fear of the Lord" will prolong life - Pr 10:27
 4) The "fear of the Lord" provides strong confidence and is
 a fountain of life - Pr 14:26-27
 5) The "fear of the Lord" prompts one to depart from evil
 - Pr 16:6
 6) The "fear of the Lord" leads to a satisfying life, and
 spares one from much evil - Pr 19:23
 7) The "fear of the Lord" is the way to riches, honor, and
 life! - Pr 22:4
 b. Prompted by the "fear of the Lord" to hate evil, depart from
 it, and turn to God where they will find wisdom, life and
 honor, they will also come to find that love which dispels
 any improper kind of "fear" - cf. 1 Jn 4:17-18
 c. But many never experienced such love from God because they
 have not had the "fear and trembling" in the first place!
 
 B. BUT GOD IS ALSO VERY MUCH INVOLVED IN OUR SALVATION!
 1. Notice that Paul writes "for it is God who works in you"
 a. We are not alone in our efforts to serve God
 b. God is always there to help us along
 2. In what way does God "work" in us? Paul identifies two ways:
 a. "to will" - God helps us in our desire and motivation to do
 His will
 b. "to do" - He works right along together with us!
 3. This does not deny that man is a free moral agent...
 a. Paul has already said to "work out your own salvation"
 b. But when we offer ourselves in service to God, He becomes
 our partner, our "co-pilot" - cf. He 13:20-21
 1) At our conversion, He begins a new work in us, and
 intends to complete it - cf. Ph 1:6
 2) Through His indwelling Spirit and Son, He gives us
 whatever strength we need - Ep 3:16; Ph 4:13
 3) So that, whatever we may become in the Lord, it is by His
 grace! - 1 Co 15:10
 c. Unfortunately, many Christians hinder God's work in them by
 their lukewarm attitude (or is it their lack of faith in
 God?)!
 d. God can work (and is willing!), but only if we let Him!
 4. Knowing that God is at work IN us, this ought to provide
 further motivation to work OUT our salvation!
 
[As we read on, we learn that one is to "Work Out Your Own Salvation"...]
 
III. DOING SO WITHOUT MURMURING AND DISPUTING (14)
 
 A. MURMURING WAS THE DOWNFALL OF ISRAEL...
 1. Notice 1 Co 10:10-12
 2. This can also be a problem among many Christians today whenever
 they face hardships
 3. But we are told that God is ever ready to help us (1 Co
 10:13), and that He is in us both to "will" and to "work"
 (Ph 2:13), so why complain?
 4. Rather, rejoice for the opportunity such "tribulations" give us
 to develop spiritually! - Ro 5:3-5; Ja 1:2-4
 
 B. DISPUTING OFTEN FOLLOWS MURMURING...
 1. Those who murmur are likely to be the same ones who begin
 disputing with others
 2. All it accomplishes is ill will, and in many cases, unnecessary
 division
 3. Shall we dare destroy the unity for which Christ died on the
 cross to attain?
 
[We need to heed Paul's exhortation to "Work Out Your Own Salvation"...]
 
IV. SO YOU CAN SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (15-16)
 
 A. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT...
 1. Which is possible only if we "become blameless and harmless"
 2. Which requires doing all things "without murmuring and
 disputing"
 3. Which can only happen if we allow God to "work in" us as we
 "work out" our own salvation; in other words...
 a. Allow God go forgive us in obedience to the gospel
 b. Allow God to strengthen us through His Word and prayer
 c. Allow God to change us in conformity to His Will
 
 B. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE "IN THE MIDST" OF CROOKED AND
 PERVERSE GENERATION...
 1. Lights are valuable only if they are used to dispel darkness
 - cf. Mt 5:14-15
 2. Though we are to "be separate" from the world (2 Co 6:14-18),
 we must "not isolate" ourselves from it - cf. Jn 17:15,18;
 1 Co 5:9-11
 3. We must associate with those in the world in order to be a
 positive influence
 
 C. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST "HOLD FAST" THE WORD OF LIFE...
 1. Some translations read "hold forth"
 2. Certainly we should do both...
 a. "hold fast" the Word of life (by our study and obedience to
 it) - 2 Ti 2:15
 b. "hold forth" the Word of life (by offering it to those in
 the world) - Mk 16:15
 3. In both ways, we are to be like "The Statue Of Liberty"
 a. Showing the way
 b. Offering hope to those in need
 
[Acting as "lights in the world", we bring great joy to those who taught
us the Word of God (16).
 
Finally, Paul writes that as you "Work Out Your Own Salvation", it
should include...]
 
V. REJOICING IN YOUR SACRIFICES (17-18)
 
 A. WE MAY BE CALLED UPON TO SACRIFICE OURSELVES...
 1. It may be in service to our own faith, or in the service of the
 faith of others
 2. It may be a sacrifice of time, energy, money, or even life
 itself
 3. But it is for a good cause, and this is how Paul viewed his
 possible execution for the cause of Christ
 
 B. SUCH SACRIFICES CAN BE AN OCCASION FOR GLADNESS AND REJOICING!
 1. This is how Paul viewed it
 2. For he knew his sacrifices were in the cause of saving others
 3. And he knew that their salvation would ultimately bring him
 greater joy at Christ's coming - cf. 1 Th 2:19-20
 4. Does not the prospect of seeing each other in the presence of
 the Lord at His coming...
  a. Make any sacrifice for one another worthwhile?
 b. Constitute good reason to be glad and rejoice in sacrificial
 service?
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. Such are some of the things involved in the salvation God offers
 
2. Are they included in YOUR efforts to "Work Out Your Own Salvation"?
 
3. As someone has suggested: "Work as though it all depended upon you,
 but pray as though it all depended upon God"
 
4. Indeed we should, for as we work out our salvation, it is God who is
 working in us!
 
Are you doing YOUR part?

"SHINING AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD"
 
 In The Midst Of A Crooked And Perverse Generation (Ph 2:12-16)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. A grave concern to any thoughtful Christian is how quickly our
 society is changing, and clearly for the worse
 
2. As some theologians would describe it, we now live in a
 "post-Christian culture"
 a. This simply means that the old norms once held true are no longer
 accepted by the majority
 b. For example, people as a majority once believed in God, that the
 Bible was the Word of God, and that Jesus was the Son of God; but
 such is no longer the case
 c. The majority no longer accepts certain basic principles of
 morality taught in both the Old and New Testament, even ridiculing
  those people who do as "old-fashioned" and "un-enlightened"
 
3. That we live in a "post-Christian culture" is true both socially and
 religiously
 a. Socially, in that divorce, remarriage, living together without
 marriage, and homosexuality are now commonly accepted as
 "alternative lifestyles"
 b. Religiously, in that women in the role of church leadership,
 homosexual ministers, and various forms of "new age" religions are
 now accepted by many
 
4. How are Christians to react to this change in our society?
 a. What can we do to change the direction in which our society is
 heading?
 1) Should we form "political action committees" and try to change
 it using the organizational powers of the church?
 2) Should we resort to boycotts, picketing, or other forms of
 "economic blackmail"?
 3) Should we resort to violence, both verbal and physical, if
 necessary?
 b. What can we do to protect ourselves, and our children?
 1) Should we simply change our views to conform to those of
 society?
 2) Should we isolate ourselves, or form communes? 
 
5. I believe that the Scriptures provide the correct answer, in a letter
 written by Paul to a church which, like many others in New Testament
 times, lived in a "PRE-Christian culture"
 a. The letter is the Epistle to the Philippians
 b. Written to Christians living in city heavily influenced by the
 Roman culture, with its paganism, intellectualism, and immorality
 c. What Paul wrote to them, is very likely the sort of things he
 would write today
 d. Especially the things mentioned in Ph 2:12-16
 
6. This lesson is the first in a series designed to notice carefully
 what Paul wrote in this passage
 a. Which I believe contains guidance for Christians living "in the
 midst of a crooked and perverse generation", whether then or now
 b. Providing directions, hope, and warnings which will help us to
 "shine as lights in the world"
 
[With this lesson, we shall simply touch upon those things we can glean
from this passage. In succeeding lessons, we shall develop each point 
more thoroughly.
 
For example, if we are going to shine as lights "in the midst of a
crooked and perverse generation", we must do so...]
 
I. BY WORKING OUT OUR OWN SALVATION FIRST! (12a)
 
 A. AS JESUS PUT IT, "FIRST REMOVE THE PLANK FROM YOUR OWN EYE" - Mt
 7:1-6
 1. This passage, often misused to prevent any proper judging, is
 emphasizing the importance of "getting your own act together
 first"
 2. Notice, that once you have "removed the plank", you can then
 (and should) be used to "remove the speck" in another's eye
 
 B. IF WE ARE NOT CAREFUL, WE MAY LOSE OUR SALVATION IN THE WAY WE
  REACT TO OTHERS!
 1. Many people go about trying to change society for the better,
 using methods that will keep themselves out of the kingdom of
 God! - cf. Ga 5:19-21
 2. Paul saw the need to be very careful when trying to save others
 - cf. 1 Co 9:27
 
[How tragic it would be, if when we go around preaching to others, do 
it such a way as to "disqualify" ourselves!
 
We can be more careful, and "shine as lights in the world", if we do 
so...]
 
II. WITH "FEAR AND TREMBLING" (12b)
 
 A. THE WORD "FEAR" IN CONNECTION WITH GOD IS NOT POPULAR TODAY...
 1. Perhaps a reaction to the "hell, fire and brimstone" preaching
 of another generation
 2. But could it be that we have gone to the other extreme?
 a. Have we diluted the concept of the "fear of the Lord" by our
 definitions?
 b. To the point there is no place for "trembling" in our
 definition of fear?
 3. Jesus certainly taught the "fear of the Lord" - Mt 10:28
 
 B. THE NEED TO HAVE PROPER "FEAR AND TREMBLING"...
 1. Without it, it is unlikely we will seriously make the effort to
 "work out our own salvation"
 2. Could this be a reason there is so much apathy and
 fruitlessness in the church today?
 
[There may be another reason for such fruitlessness; and that is, if we 
don't "shine as lights in the world"...]
 
III. BY LETTING GOD WORK IN US (13)
 
 A. TO SUCCEED AS "LIGHTS IN THE WORLD"...
 1. It will be essential to let God do His work, something He is
 able to do beyond our ability to comprehend - Ep 3:20-21
 2. He is there "working in you"! - cf. Ph 1:6
 3. How? Both...
 a. To "will" - helping us in our motivation
 b. To "do" - helping us in our ability
 
 B. BUT IF WE ARE NOT CAREFUL, WE CAN EASILY...
 1. Quench God's efforts to work in us
 2. Prevent God from using us altogether (at least for doing things
 for our own good)!
 
[Later, in another lesson, we shall examine how God is at work in us, 
and what we can do to promote such activity on His part.
 
Another important element in our "shining as lights" is that we go 
about our task...]
 
IV. WITHOUT MURMURING AND DISPUTING (14)
 
 A. BY MAINTAINING A POSITIVE ATTITUDE...
  1. Living in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation can
 easily get us down, where we can become constant complainers
 2. But allowing that to happen will render us less effective
 3. And as with Israel, "murmuring" can lead to our own downfall 
 - 1 Co 10:10-12
 
 B. BY GETTING ALONG WITH YOUR BRETHREN...
 1. Unity among brethren is extremely important as we try to
 convince the world concerning Jesus - Jn 17:20-23
 2. Disputing with one another simply reveals we have some growing
 up to do! - 1 Co 3:1-4
 
[If the "body of Christ" is going to influence the world the way it
should, it cannot be devouring itself through such destructive forces 
like "murmuring" and "disputing" among themselves.
 
But also important is our relation to those in the world, and that they 
truly see us...]
 
V. AS CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT (15)
 
 A. WHICH REQUIRES US TO BECOME "BLAMELESS"...
 1. Not that we are perfect, but like elders are to be blameless,
  we are to be "above reproach"
 a. We may be sinners, but we quickly confess our sins and make
 amends when it is called for
 b. We should live in such a way that we have no "outstanding
 faults" that are clearly evident to others
 2. Nothing hinders our ability to "shine as lights" like
 inconsistency and hypocrisy, especially that which is evident
 to all!
 
 B. IT ALSO REQUIRES US TO BE "HARMLESS"...
 1. Though we may firmly oppose sin in all forms, sinners should
 never fear bodily harm from us! - again cf. 2 Ti 2:24-26
 2. Sadly, many so-called "Christians" appear to be using "Old
 Covenant" methods in their efforts to change others, and come
 across as likely to produce great bodily harm!
 3. But as Jesus said, we are to be "wise as serpents and harmless
 as doves" - Mt 10:16
 
[Finally, if we are to really "shine as lights in the midst of a 
crooked and perverse generation", we must be...]
 
VI. HOLDING FAST THE WORD OF LIFE (16)
 
 A. REMEMBER, THE WORD OF GOD IS THE "SWORD OF THE SPIRIT"!
 1. It is the ONLY "offensive weapon" we have in the armor of God 
 - Ep 6:10-17
 2. It is the instrument by which the Spirit convicts the world of
 sin, produces repentance and brings about the new birth - cf.
 Ja 1:18; 1 Pe 1:23; Ro 1:16
 3. Thus it is truly the "word of life"!
 
 B. WE MUST BOTH "HOLD FAST" AND "HOLD FORTH" THIS POWERFUL WORD!
 1. Some translations say "hold fast", others "hold forth"
 2. Both are called for, as we should:
 a. "Hold fast" the word in our own study and application
 b. "Hold forth" the word as we proclaim it to those we are
 trying to change
 3. In this, we would do well to follow the example of Ezra, and
 the order in which he applied himself - cf. Ezra 7:10
 a. To first "seek the Law of the Lord"
 b. Then "to do it"
 c. Finally, "to teach" others
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. In these verses, then, I believe we find the way Christians are to
 "shine as lights in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation"
 
2. It involves...
 a. Working out our own salvation
 b. With fear and trembling
 c. By letting God work in us
 d. Doing things without murmuring and disputing
 e. As children of God without fault
 f. Holding fast the word of life
 
3. If our ultimate objective is not just changing legislation, but the
 hearts of men to the ways of God, then this is how we can do it!
 
4. And this is how we will "rejoice in the day of Christ" -- and know
 that our own labor will not be in vain! - cf. Ph 2:16
 
We will expand upon these thoughts in succeeding lessons; but for now,
have you given serious thoughts as to how YOU shine in the world...?

By Working Out Our Own Salvation (Ph 2:12)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. Faced with the challenge of living in "the midst of a crooked and
 perverse generation", it is natural that we wish to react against it
 
2. But how shall we do it? In our first lesson I suggested that we
 "work out our own salvation" first!
 a. Otherwise, we may jeopardize our own salvation in HOW we react
 b. As I fear many are doing in the way they are trying to change
 others
 
3. In talking about "working out our own salvation", perhaps a word or
 two is in order before we actually begin...
 a. We should remember that we are "saved by grace through faith, not
 of works" - cf. Ep 2:8-9
 b. But as those saved through faith without meritorious works on our
 part (though we did have to respond to the gospel with its
 conditions of faith, repentance, confession and baptism), we have
 been "created in Christ Jesus for good works" - Ep 2:10
 c. As Paul told Titus in Ti 3:1-8...
 1) We are to be ready for every good work - 1
 2) Though we were not saved by works of righteousness - 5
 3) But were saved through the mercy of God bestowed in the washing
 of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit (a reference to
  baptism) - 5
 4) Therefore those who have believed in God should be careful to
 maintain good works - 8
 d. Why the need to be careful?
 1) Because though we were not saved by good works...
 2) We can lose our salvation if we with God's help do not produce
 them! (as we see later in this lesson)
 
[How then should those who are saved "not of works" go about "working
out their own salvation"?
 
I would suggest two major thoughts, the first one being...]
 
I. DEVELOP A CHRIST-LIKE "CHARACTER"
 
 A. BY GROWING IN THE GRACE AND KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST...
 1. As Peter admonished in 2 Pe 3:17-18, as an antidote to
 falling away
 2. In 2 Pe 1:5-11 Peter defines what is involved:
 a. Developing "Christ-like" qualities - 5-8
 b. It requires diligence, and an ever-increasing growth in
 these graces - 5,8
 c. To lack these things jeopardizes our entrance into the
 "everlasting kingdom of our Lord" - 9-11
 d. Thus the need for "diligence" on our part! - 5,10
 
 B. BY PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN, AND PUTTING ON THE NEW MAN...
 1. As Paul wrote in Co 3:1-17 to the Colossians
 2. As we examine this text, we see that it involves...
 a. Setting our minds on things above - 1-4
 b. Stop doing the things upon which God's wrath is going to
 come one day - 5-9
 c. Putting on the "new man", which is according to the "image
 of Christ" - 10-11
 d. Developing "Christ-like" qualities - 12-14
 e. Allowing "God's peace" to rule in thankful hearts - 15
 f. Letting "Christ's word" to dwell in us richly, through
 singing - 16
 g. Doing all in the name of the Lord Jesus - 17
 
[By developing such Christ-like "character", we will not only save 
ourselves, but we will truly "shine as lights in the world"!
 
And that is because we are simply reflecting in our lives the glory of 
Christ that shines in our own hearts. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians:
 
 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and
 ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. 6 For God, who commanded
 the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to
 [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of
 Jesus Christ. (2 Co 4)
 
In our efforts to change others, are we coming across as "preaching
Christ" or "preaching ourselves"? Developing a Christ-like "character"
will go along way, not only to work out our salvation, but to
effectively preach Christ!
 
In the above passage (2 Co 4:5), Paul intimates that in one sense we
ARE to preach ourselves. That is, as "your SERVANTS for Jesus' sake".
 
This leads to our second point as to how we can "work out our own
salvation"; that we...]
 
II. DEVELOP A CHRIST-LIKE "SERVICE"
 
 A. FULFILL YOUR FUNCTION IN THE BODY OF CHRIST...
 1. As Paul admonishes in Ro 12:1-8
 2. We have a "reasonable service" to perform, which is to "prove 
 what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God" 1-2
 3. To do this effectively...
 a. We need to maintain a proper spirit of humility - 3
 b. We need to remember that the body of Christ has many members
 but they don't all have the same function - 4-5
  c. We need to exercise whatever "gifts" we have - 6-8
 1) For some it may be a form of teaching
 2) For others it may be a form of serving
 
 B. MINISTER YOUR "GIFT" AS A GOOD STEWARD OF GOD'S MANIFOLD GRACE...
 1. Notice what Peter said in 1 Pe 4:10-11
 2. Each person has a "gift" to minister to others - 10
 3. Because God's grace is "manifold" (multi-faceted), we should
 expect some diversity in our service - 10
 4. But everyone is to be a "good steward", which means we will one
 day have to answer for what we did - cf. the parable of the
 Talents - Mt 25:14-30
 5. So let us exercise our "gifts" (or service) in such a way as to
 glorify God through Jesus Christ! - 11
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. Much more could be said, but developing a Christ-like "character" and
 "service" will go a long way in "working out our own salvation"
 
2. And "working out our own salvation" in this way will certainly help
 us to "shine as lights in the world"!
 
Are you being "careful to maintain good works"? (Ti 3:8) Remember
what Paul wrote about Jesus' death on the cross...
 
 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity,
 and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good
 works. (Ti 2:14)
 
Are YOU "zealous of good works", or did Jesus die in vain in YOUR case?

With Fear And Trembling (Ph 2:12)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. In the previous lesson, we noticed that in order to "shine as lights
 in the world", that we would do well to first "work out our own 
 salvation" by:
 a. Developing a Christ-like character
 b. Developing a Christ-like service
 
2. But it is important to notice that Paul said we should do this "with
 fear and trembling" (Ph 2:12)
 
3. In writing about the early church, Luke recorded:
 
 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and
 Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and
 in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. (Ac 9:31)
 
 Note that they were "walking in the fear of the Lord"!
 
4. As mentioned in our introductory lesson, the concept of "fear and
 trembling" in connection with God is not a popular concept today
 a. People prefer to hear about God's love, longsuffering and mercy
 b. Sometimes, when we point out God's righteous indignation,
 holiness, and justice, people reply: "My God is not like that!"
 
5. The emphasis on God's love and mercy today is probably an reaction to
 the "hell, fire, and brimstone" preaching of another generation
 
6. But could it be that we have gone to other extreme?
 a. Where there is no concept of "fear and trembling" as it relates to
 the Christian?
 b. Could this be why many Christians are apathetic in their service?
 c. Could it be we have forgotten Whom we should fear if we are
 negligent in our service?
 
7. In this lesson, I hope to accomplish three things:
 a. Define the "fear of the Lord"
 b. Point out why the "fear of the Lord" is important to the Christian
 c. Suggest how we can develop a healthy "fear of the Lord" without
 going to one extreme or the other
 
[We begin by...]
 
I. DEFINING THE "FEAR OF THE LORD"
 
 A. THE WORD "FEAR"...
 1. In the Hebrew, the word is "YIR'AH" and is used in the Old
 Testament to describe:
 a. fear, terror
 b. awesome or terrifying thing (object causing fear)
 c. fear (of God), respect, reverence, piety
 2. The Greek word is "PHOBOS", and it is used to describe:
 a. fear, dread, terror
  b. that which strikes terror
 
 B. IN CONNECTION WITH THE "FEAR OF THE LORD", IT IS OFTEN DEFINED AS
 "REVERENCE" OR "AWE"...
 1. Which is fine as far as it goes...
 2. But I wonder if this definition truly goes far enough...
 3. For though the terms "reverence" and "awe" imply a place for
 "trembling", do most people make the connection?
 
 C. THE "FEAR OF THE LORD" SHOULD INCLUDE A PLACE FOR "TREMBLING"!
 1. Even as Paul indicates in our text, by combining "fear and
 trembling" in our text - Ph 2:12
 2. The Greek word for "trembling" is "TROMOS" and means "a
 trembling or quaking with fear"
 
 D. A PROPER "FEAR OF THE LORD" WOULD THEN INCLUDE...
 1. "reverence and awe..."
 2. "being afraid to offend God in any way" - HENDRICKSEN
 3. A trembling and quaking if one knows they have offended God and
 have not obtained forgiveness! - cf. He 10:26-27, 30-31;
 12:28-29
 
[The value of such an attitude is seen as we continue on and now 
notice...]
 
II. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE "FEAR OF THE LORD"
 
 A. FROM THE BOOK OF PROVERBS, WE LEARN...
 1. The "fear of the Lord" is the beginning of knowledge - Pr 1:7
 2. The "fear of the Lord" will cause one to hate evil - Pr 8:13
 3. The "fear of the Lord" will prolong life - Pr 10:27
 4. The "fear of the Lord" provides strong confidence and is a
 fountain of life - Pr 14:26-27
 5. The "fear of the Lord" prompts one to depart from evil - Pr 
 16:6
 6. The "fear of the Lord" leads to a satisfying life, and spares
 one from much evil - Pr 19:23
 7. The "fear of the Lord" is the way to riches, honor, and life! 
 - Pr 22:4
 
 B. WITHOUT THE "FEAR OF THE LORD"...
 1. We close ourselves to the treasures of God's wisdom and
 knowledge!
 2. We will flirt with evil and be corrupted by it
 3. Our lives are likely to be shortened by our refusal to heed
 God's word (e.g., suffering sexually transmitted diseases 
 because we did not heed His Word on sexual relationships)
 4. We will not come to know the love of God that gives us
 assurance and confidence of our salvation
 5. When fallen into sin, we will not be motivated to repent and
 turn to God!
 6. We will not be motivated to truly "work out our own salvation"!
 
[Without the "fear of the Lord", we cannot please God (cf. Isa 66:1-2).
Only the person who "trembles at His Word" has God's promise to receive
His tender mercy! (cf. Psa 103:17-18).
 
But how does one develop the proper "fear of the Lord" without going to
the extreme of earlier generations?]
 
III. DEVELOPING THE "FEAR OF THE LORD"
 
 A. THE "FEAR OF THE LORD" COMES THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD!
 1. Just as "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of
 God" (Ro 10:17), the same can be said for the "fear of the
 Lord"!
 2. Notice Deu 31:10-13, where the children of Israel were told to
 gather every seven years to read and hear the Word...
 3. The purpose? "...that they may learn to fear the Lord"!
 4. As one reads the Word of God, they should gain a healthy degree
 of the "fear of the Lord"
 a. Consider the words of Paul in Ro 2:4-11
 b. Or how about the words of Peter in 2 Pe 3:7-14
 
 B. THE WORD OF GOD, PROPERLY USED, WILL MAINTAIN A PROPER BALANCE...
 1. It is important to emphasize, however, that to avoid extremes,
 we must real ALL of God's Word
 a. Some read only those portions will reveal God's love and
 mercy, and have no "fear of the Lord"
 b. Others emphasize the "fire, hell and brimstone" passages,
 and know nothing of God's everlasting lovingkindness
 c. The one develops an attitude of permissiveness that
 belittles God's holiness and justice
 d. The other develops a psychosis of terror that forgets God's
 grace and compassion
 2. Even in the passages noted above, the context of each speaks
 much of God's grace and forgiveness for those who will repent!
 3. So we must be careful how we use the Word of God, but use it we
 must!
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. The Psalmist said...
 
 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be
 had in reverence of all [them that are] about him. (Psalms 89:7)
 
2. Why do we need to "fear the Lord"? So we will be sure to "work out
 our salvation with fear and trembling"!
 
3. The warning is necessary, for as it is written in Hebrews:
 
 1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left [us] of
 entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.
 2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but
 the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in
 them that heard [it]. (He 4:1-2)
 
 And again...
 
 Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall
 after the same example of unbelief. (He 4:11)
 
4. With the proper "fear of the Lord", we will "work out our salvation",
 we will "labour...to enter into that [heavenly] rest"!
 
5. And we will not only save ourselves with God's help, but will also be
 able to "shine as lights in the world"!
 
 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse
 ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting
 holiness in the fear of God. (2 Co 7:1)
 
Are you "perfecting holiness in the fear of God"?

By Letting God Work In Us (Ph 2:13)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. "Shining as lights in the world" is a daunting task, especially
 living in a world that is becoming increasingly crooked and perverse
 
2. But the passage which serves as the basis for this series (Ph 2:
 12-16) provides both "direction" and "hope"
 
3. We have already begun to see some things about the "direction" we
 need to go in...
 a. We need to "work out our own salvation" first!
 b. We need to do so "with fear and trembling"
 
4. But in Ph 2:13, we see something that should give us great "hope":
 a. "For it is God who works in you..."
 b. We are not alone in our efforts to "shine as lights in the world"!
 1) Even as Paul wrote in Ph 1:6 - "...He who has begun a good
 work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ"
 2) And again in Ph 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ
 (Him) who strengthens me."
 c. Yes, there is "power" from God to aid us!
 
5. In this lesson, I shall endeavor to accomplish three things:
 a. Increase our understanding and appreciation for the power God
  makes available to the Christian
 b. Suggest the source and purpose of this power
 c. Propose the means by which we can be sure to allow God's power to
 work in us
 
[First, then, I suggest we turn to Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians as we
strive to learn more about...]
 
I. THE "POWER" AVAILABLE TO THE CHRISTIAN
 
 A. THIS "POWER" IS SOMETHING PAUL WANTED US TO KNOW...
 1. As mentioned in his prayer to the Ephesians - Ep 1:15-23
 2. Along with other things, Paul wanted them to know "what is the
 exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe" - 19
 3. Note that Paul says this "power toward us" is "according to the
 working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ..."
 a. "when He raised Him from the dead"
 b. "and seated Him at His right hand..."
 c. The power available to Christians is akin to that power used
 in the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus!
 4. How is it possible that we have experienced the same sort of
 power God used in raising Jesus from the dead?
 a. In that those who "were dead in trespasses and sins" God
 made "alive together with Christ...and raised us up
 together"! - cf. Ep 2:1-6
 b. The Divine power which raised Jesus from the dead is the
 same power that is necessary to forgive sin and regenerate
 the sinner!
 c. As Jesus illustrated in healing the paralytic, it is no more
 easier to forgive sins than to heal the lame - both require
 Divine power! - cf. Mt 9:1-8
 
 B. THIS "POWER" IS DESCRIBED FURTHER BY PAUL...
 1. In his second prayer for the Ephesians - Ep 3:14-21
 2. The source and purpose of this power is hinted at in Ep 3:16
  (which we will return to later)
 3. But elaborated upon in his "doxology" in Ep 3:20
 a. Note that he describes what God is "able to do...according
 to the power that works in us"
 b. Note also the superlatives used to describe this power:
 1) "exceedingly"
 2) "abundantly"
 3) "above all that we ask or think"
 
[Yes, there is power available beyond our imagination that is at work 
in us, if we will only access it!
 
But what is the source of this power, and what is its purpose?]
 
II. THE SOURCE AND PURPOSE OF THIS "POWER"
 
 A. AS SUGGESTED BY EP 3:16, THE SOURCE IS GOD'S "SPIRIT IN THE INNER
 MAN"...
 1. Even as Paul said in Ph 2:13, "it is God who works in you"
 2. I understand this to relate to the indwelling of the Holy
 Spirit in the lives of Christians
 a. As promised by Jesus, and explained by John - Jn 7:37-39
 b. As promised by Peter on the Day of Pentecost - Ac 2:38-39
 c. As referred to by Paul - Ro 8:9-11; 1 Co 3:16; 6:19
 3. The Holy Spirit, then, is the "instrumental agent" by which God
 indwells the Christian - cf. Ep 2:22
 a. Christians may not all agree on HOW the Spirit may indwell
 the Christian
  b. But that He does, and that He is "source" of power, seems
 evident from Ep 3:16
 
 B. AS SUGGESTED BY EP 3:16, THE PURPOSE OF THIS POWER IS TO PROVIDE
 "STRENGTH"...
 1. To be "strengthened with might"
 2. For what purpose?
 a. To "work out your own salvation" - cf. Ph 2:12-13
 b. To "put to death the deeds of the body" - Ro 8:12-13
 c. To "glorify God in your body" - 1 Co 6:19-20
 -- In other words, to "do" what is necessary to "shine as
 lights in the world"!
 3. But notice carefully in our text (Ph 2:13), that God "works
 in you both to will and to do"
 a. Strength not only to "do"
 b. But strength to "will"
 -- I.e., the power is also there to help our motivation, our
 hope! - cf. Ro 15:13
 
[As wonderful as this "power" is that God provides through His Holy 
Spirit for strength and motivation, it does us no good if we don't 
access it!]
 
III. ACCESSING THE "POWER" AVAILABLE TO CHRISTIANS
 
 A. THROUGH PRAYER...
 1. In other words, ask for it!
 2. This is what Paul was doing for the Ephesians in Ep 3:16
 3. Certainly it would be appropriate for us to ask it for
 ourselves!
 4. Those who do "wait on the Lord" (which includes prayer) are
 promised strength - cf. Isa 40:28-31
 
 B. THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD...
 1. In instructing the Ephesians to "be strong in the Lord and in
 the power of His might", he tells them to "put on the whole
  armor of God" - Ep 6:10-13
 2. Indispensable to this armor are such elements as:
 a. Truth - Ep 6:14
 b. The gospel - Ep 6:15
 c. Faith - Ep 6:16
 -- All of which are inseparable from the Word of God
 3. But the Word itself is described as "the sword of the Spirit" 
 - Ep 6:17
 a. Certainly we should use it as a weapon to reach others
 b. But does not the Spirit of God use the same word to reach
 ourselves?
 1) Through the Word of truth, we have been born again - 
 1 Pe 1:23; Ja 1:18
 2) And through the Word of truth, we will save our souls!
 - Ja 1:21
 4. So allow the Word of God to be an avenue through which God
  strengthens us in the inner man, and to work in us, both to
 will and to do for His good pleasure!
 
 C. BY JUST DOING IT!
 1. We receive a lot of help through the Word of God and prayer
 (primarily in the area of strengthening the "will")
 2. But the ultimate demonstration of God's power is to be seen
 when we "do" His will
 a. But it won't be seen until WE decide to do it and then do
 OUR part
 b. Isn't this what is implied Ph 2:12-13?
  1) God is at work in us (through His indwelling Spirit)
 2) But only if we are also working out our salvation with
 fear and trembling!
 3. So it is by FAITH that we believe that the power to do God's
 will is there, and it is by FAITH that we act upon it!
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. If Christians are NOT "Shining As Lights In The World", perhaps it is
 because God is not at work in them
 
2. If such is the case, it would only be through lack of faith on our
 part...
 a. Lack of faith to believe in God's Word about the power to do God's
 will that is available to Christians through the indwelling Holy
 Spirit
 b. Lack of faith to access that power through prayer and the Word
 c. Lack of faith to do simply what God says to do, trusting Him to
 provide the ability
 
3. But from our text (Ph 2:13), we know that it is in keeping with
 God's "good pleasure" to empower us to do His will
 
Therefore, let's do all that we can to have "God work in us", so that we
can truly "shine as lights in the world"!

Doing All Things Without Murmuring And Disputing (Ph 2:14)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. So far in this series on "Shining As Lights In The World", we have
 been given both direction and hope
 a. "Direction" in the form of the admonition: "Work out your own
 salvation..."
 b. "Hope" in the assurance that "it is God who works in you..."
 
2. But now we have a "warning," and found in Ph 2:14, it is that we
 "Do all things without murmuring and disputing."
 
3. The need for this warning should become more apparent as we proceed
 in this lesson
 
[First, let's consider...]
 
I. MURMURING
 
 A. THE DANGER OF "MURMURING"...
 1. Murmuring is defined as: "To complain in low mumbling tones;
 grumble."
 2. The people of Israel "murmured" frequently throughout their
 wilderness wanderings, and many were destroyed because of it! 
 - cf. 1 Co 10:10-11
 3. In describing those who would be apostates, "murmurers" are
 included in the description! - Jude 3-4, 16-19
 4. Not only are our souls at stake, but when did anyone ever go
 about a task seriously all the while "complaining in low
 mumbling tones"?
 a. E.g., an employee at work
 b. E.g., a student with his or her homework
 c. Or a Christian who is to "work out your own salvation with
 fear and trembling"!
 5. How can we then "shine as lights" if we are seen to be a group
 of complainers?
 
 B. REPLACE "MURMURING" WITH "THANKSGIVING"!
 1. When a person is murmuring, it is an indication of
 dissatisfaction
 2. But a Christian has so much to be thankful for, including:
 a. Salvation in Christ Jesus, which includes every spiritual
  blessing - Ep 1:3
 b. Assurance of a Heavenly Father who understands and will 
 provide our needs - Mt 6:31-33; He 13:5-6
 c. Indeed, the help of God, who "works in you both to will and
 to do for His good pleasure" - Ph 2:13
 3. Yes, if anything, the people of God should be known as filled
 with "thanksgiving", not "murmuring"! Consider what Paul wrote
 to the Colossians:
 a. We should thank God for our inheritance - Co 1:12
 b. We should abound with thanksgiving - Co 2:6-7
 c. Be thankful for the peace of God ruling in our hearts - Co 
 3:15
 d. Give thanks to God the Father through Jesus Christ - Co
 3:17
 e. Be vigilant in prayer with thanksgiving - Co 4:2
 4. Surely an "attitude of gratitude" will help us "shine as lights
 in the world" much better than murmuring, grumbling and
 complaining!
 
[How do people see us? As "murmurers" who complain about the economy,
the government, everything? Or as people, who though we see much evil 
in the world, also see much good, and are known for being thankful?
 
Another potential for hindering our ability to "shine as lights in the 
world" pertains to...]
 
II. DISPUTING
 
 A. THE DANGER OF "DISPUTING"...
 1. The word "disputing" simply means: "arguing; disputing"
 a. It is not describing the discussions of differences between
 individuals who seek to find common ground
 b. But rather the sort of divisive "wrangling" condemned in 
 1 Ti 6:3-5; 2 Ti 2:14-16; Tit 3:9
 2. Such disputing can devour those in the body of Christ, against
 which Paul warned - Ga 5:15
 3. It can also destroy our ability to convince the world
 concerning Jesus! - Jn 17:20-23
 
 B. BEING DIFFERENT IN HOW WE HANDLE OUR "DIFFERENCES"...
 1. There will always be difference among brethren...
 a. We come into the kingdom with many different backgrounds and
 perspectives
 b. It will take a while until we all develop the "mind of
 Christ" and the "oneness of mind" for which Paul pleaded in
 Ph 2:2
 2. Until then, we can still "shine as lights in the world" in the
 way we handle our differences!
 a. With the attitudes of gentleness, patience, and humility
 prescribed in 2 Ti 2:23-26
 b. With the qualities of longsuffering, forbearance, and
 forgiveness described in Co 3:12-13
 c. With the willingness to forego personal liberties as
 exemplified by Paul in 1 Co 8:13
 3. We can truly "shine as lights" and make a positive impact on
 the world for Jesus, if we can:
 a. Disagree, without being disagreeable!
  b. Be different in the way we handle our differences!
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. Too much harm has been done in the past by the way we have dealt with
 differences, and the tendency to complain
 
2. If we can only take to heart the warning of Paul and other scriptures
 against "murmuring" and "disputing"...
 a. Perhaps the harm can be undone
 b. And those who wear the name of Christ can truly "shine as lights
 in the world"
 
3. If we will only let God truly work in us...
 a. Helping us to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling
 b. Then perhaps we will be more successful in developing Christ-like
 characters that will really "shine as lights in the world"!

As Children Of God Without Fault (Ph 2:15)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. We have seen in this series of lessons thus far that in order to
 "shine as lights in the world" the apostle Paul has given us
 "direction," "hope," and a "warning":
 a. "direction" - By saying, "work out out your own salvation with
 fear and trembling"
 b. "hope" - By reminding us, "for it is God who works in you..."
 c. "warning" - By telling us to "do all things without murmuring and
 disputing"
 
2. But what is the ultimate goal of these admonitions of Paul?
 a. Is it not that we be "children of God without fault"? - Ph 2:15
 b. And is this not how we will truly "shine as lights in the world",
 living as "children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked
 and perverse generation"?
 
3. Children of God without fault...surely THEY will "shine as lights" and make
 a positive impact upon the world in which they live!
 
4. But please note carefully, it is not enough just to be "children of
 God"...
 a. We must also be "without fault"
 b. And this will be true only if we are "blameless and harmless"
 
5. What does it mean to be "blameless" and "harmless"? And is this how
 the world sees those who profess to be "the children of God"?
 
[In an effort to answer these questions, let's first consider...]
 
I. BLAMELESS
 
 A. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE "BLAMELESS"...
 1. The Greek word is amemptos {am'-emp-tos}, which means to be
 "blameless, deserving no censure, free from fault or defect"
 2. Certainly this does not mean we are perfect, for we all sin 
 - 1 Jn 1:8,10
 3. Rather, as Paul told Titus, to live and act in such a way that
 those who oppose us have "nothing evil to say of us" - cf. Ti 
 2:7-8
 4. I.e., living in such a way that we have no "outstanding faults"
 that are so clearly evident to others
 
 B. WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO BE "BLAMELESS"...
 1. Nothing hinders our efforts to influence others like
 inconsistency or hypocrisy
 2. If we have glaring faults that are evident to others, they will
 not take our message seriously
 3. Especially if we are trying to point out "their" faults!
 
 C. HOW TO BECOME "BLAMELESS"...
 1. Certainly, we should "practice what we preach"!
 2. This would include "working out your own salvation"!
 3. When we sin, confess our guilt immediately, especially when it
 is evident to all
 4. When one endeavors to preach to others, do it in the spirit of
 gentleness, patience and humility - Ga 6:1; 2 Ti 2:24-26
 
[Otherwise, those who oppose us will quickly find fault in our 
attitudes and character, and use that as justification to reject our 
message!
 
To be "without fault", it is also necessary that we be considered by 
others as "harmless"...]
 
II. HARMLESS
 
 A. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE "HARMLESS"...
 1. The word Paul uses is akeraios {ak-er'-ah-yos}, which in this
 context means "without a mixture of evil, free from guile,
 innocent, simple"
 2. It is used three times in the scriptures:
 a. When Jesus was preparing His disciples for the "limited
 commission - Mt 10:16
 b. By Paul, in his epistle to the Romans - Ro 16:19 (the word
 "simple")
 c. And here in Ph 2:15
 3. To be "harmless", then, would mean:
  a. To be free from any taint or suspicion of evil
 b. To never be suspected of duplicity, saying one thing,
 meaning another
 c. To never be feared of potential harm or violence
 4. Again, it means to be "harmless as doves"
 
 B. WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO BE "HARMLESS"...
 1. To be "without fault"
 2. So that "one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing
 evil to say of you." - Ti 2:7-8
 a. How does this apply to some in the pro-life movement who use
 intimidation, harassment, and sometimes violence to further
 their cause?
 b. Or to those who threaten "economic blackmail" (i.e.,
 boycotting) in an effort to force others to change
 c. Or some within the "Christian Coalition", who often advise
 trying to "dig up dirt" on political opponents?
 d. Do not such efforts, though well-intentioned, often give
 others reasons to speak evil of those who call themselves
  "Christians"?
 e. Should we not have the attitude of Paul, who said:
 1) "We give no offense in anything that our ministry may not
 be blamed" - cf. 2 Co 6:3
 2) "providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the
 Lord, but also in the sight of men." - cf. 2 Co 8:21
 3. So the name of God will not be blasphemed by our conduct! - cf.
 Ro 2:23-24
 a. Though written in reference to inconsistent Jews, cannot
 Paul's rebuke apply to Christians who resist evil in the
 wrong way?
 b. Do not many people speak evil of the faith because of the
 way some are trying to force others to change?
 
 C. HOW TO BE "HARMLESS AS DOVES"...
 1. React to evil the way Paul said we should react, not with evil
 but with acts of love; that is how we truly OVERCOME evil! 
 - Ro 12:17-21
 2. Love your enemies the way Jesus taught us, with "active good
 will" this is how we demonstrate ourselves to truly be "sons of
 the Highest"! - Lk 6:27-36
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. The challenge we face is that we are so repulsed by evil, we are
 tempted to respond in ways not in keeping with the gospel of Christ
 
2. But if our ultimate goal is changing the hearts of men, then it must
 be in accord with the way God has changed our own hearts, through the
 gospel of love, sacrifice, and mercy!
 
3. If we are truly the "children of God without fault", then we imitate
 our Heavenly Father's efforts by using love, prayer, doing good, to
 change those who are still part of this "crooked and perverse
 generation"
 
4. By following in steps of our Savior, Jesus Christ, then we will truly
 be "blameless and harmless", and "shine as lights in the world"!

By Holding Fast The Word Of Life (Ph 2:16)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. In our efforts to determine how we might truly "shine as lights in
 the world", we have gleaned from Paul's comments that we must:
 a. Work out our own salvation - Ph 2:12
 b. Do so with "fear and trembling" - Ph 2:12
 c. Allow God to work in us - Ph 2:13
 d. Do all things without "murmuring and disputing" - Ph 2:14
 e. Be children of God without fault, by being "blameless and
 harmless" - Ph 2:15
 
2. Fundamental to our ability to do all these things, and to "shine as
 lights in the world", is that we "hold fast the word of life" - Ph
 2:16
 a. It is the "word of life" that instructs us HOW to work out our own
 salvation
 b. We saw that the "word of life" is designed to teach us the "fear
 of the Lord"
 c. The "word of life" is the "sword of the Spirit", and therefore a
 crucial element to allowing God to be at work in us
 d. Through the "word of life" we learn the danger of disputing and
  murmuring
 e. And with the help of the "word of life", we can be blameless and
 harmless, children of God without fault
 
3. But for all this to occur we must HOLD FAST the "word of life"; what
 is the proper way to do this?
 a. From Ezra, a young priest in the Old Testament, we can learn what
 is necessary, and the proper order
 b. In Ezra 7:10, we learned that he "had prepared his heart..."
 1) To seek the Law of the Lord
 2) To do it
 3) And to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel
 
[Following his example, I would suggest that we first "hold fast the 
word of life"...]
 
I. THROUGH DILIGENT STUDY
 
 A. DILIGENT STUDY REQUIRES...
 1. Longing for the Word like a baby longs for milk - 1 Pe 2:2
 2. Receiving the Word with meekness, and implanting it our hearts 
 - Ja 1:21; Ps 119:11
 3. The only way I know that this can be done, is through:
 a. Daily Bible reading on your own - cf. Josh 1:8; Ps 1:1-3
 b. Taking advantage of every opportunity to study with others
 (e.g., Sunday morning and midweek Bible classes)
 
 B. SUCH DILIGENT STUDY IS NECESSARY - 2 Ti 2:14-16
 1. Otherwise, we can lead to the ruin of hearers!
 2. Because we might shamefully mishandle the word of truth!
 3. Rather than leading others to God, we might instead increase to
 more ungodliness!
 a. Notice Paul's warnings to the young evangelist Timothy -
 1 Ti 6:3-5,20-21
 b. Also to the evangelist Titus - Ti 2:7-8; 3:9-11
 
[So if we really want to "hold fast the word of life" in a way that
will help us "shine as lights" and not be ashamed, we must start by 
preparing our own hearts to study it diligently!
 
We must also "hold fast the word of life"...]
 
II. THROUGH CONSISTENT APPLICATION
 
 A. THERE IS THE DANGER OF BEING A HEARER, BUT NOT A DOER - Ja 1:
 22-25
 1. We deceive only ourselves - 22
 a. Not God (He knows our hearts)
 b. Not the devil (he has us right where he wants us, as hearers
 only)
 c. Not those who know us (they can see our inconsistency)
 2. We deprive ourselves of the true blessedness of God's Word,
 which comes in the DOING of it, not just in the HEARING (or
 reading) of it - 25
 
 B. THE WORLD ALREADY HAS ENOUGH "PHARISEES" - Mt 23:1-3
 1. That is, people who "say, and do not do"
 2. Even though what they were saying was correct, they failed to
 "practice what they preach"
 3. Nothing undermines our efforts than those who claim to be
 Christians, but do not live accordingly!
 
 C. BUT THROUGH CONSISTENT APPLICATION, WE DEMONSTRATE THE VALUE OF
 THE WILL OF GOD - Ro 12:1-2
 1. By offering what is "reasonable service", we can "prove"
  (demonstrate) that the Will of God is "good and acceptable and
 perfect"
 2. Where people might not listen just to our claims, they might
 think differently if we demonstrate in our lives that God's way
 is the best and only way!
 
[So after we have learned God's Will, let's be sure to live it! Then, 
and only then, are we in a position to do the next thing as we try to 
"hold fast the word of life", and that is to do so...]
 
III. THROUGH TEACHING IT TO OTHERS
 
 A. THE NATURAL FOLLOWUP TO STUDY AND APPLICATION...
 1. Ezra realized that this was the proper order - Ezra 7:10
 2. Sadly, many people go about it in reverse order (teach, attempt
 to do, and then study)
 3. But if we have properly studied and applied God's Word, people
 will take note, and want to know more about who we are and why
 we are the way we are!
 
 B. AS THE PEOPLE OF GOD, PROCLAIMING THE "WORD OF LIFE" IS OUR
 PRIMARY FUNCTION IN THIS WORLD - 1 Pe 2:9-10
  1. We are to "proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of
 darkness into His marvelous light"
 2. Is this not another way of saying that we are to teach others,
 to share the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ with others?
 
 C. HEREIN LIES THE GREATEST HOPE OF SHEDDING LIGHT IN THIS DARK
 WORLD OF OURS!
 1. For if God has called US through His gospel out of darkness
 into His marvelous light...
 2. ...then perhaps He will do the same for others with whom we
 share the same gospel!
 3. So as we endeavor to "shine as lights" with the help of that
 Word which was used to call us into God's marvelous light,
 let's not neglect to share it with others!
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. Like many others, I am very concerned about the direction our society
 appears to be going
 
2. I do not take issue with the motives and zeal of others, but I
 question the WAY some people who believe in God are trying to change
 our society for good
 
3. Can we not learn from the failure of the "Civil Rights Movement" to
 change the hearts of men through legislation or even violence that
 maybe there is a better way?
 a. Not to say that changing legislation through legitimate means is
 not a worthy goal for Christians
 b. But to say that it alone is inadequate
 
4. The "better way" is the way God used His people to ultimately change
 a "pre-Christian culture" (known for immorality and injustice) into
 one that at least on the surface held up Christianity as a religion
 of preference rather than ridicule
 
5. How did they do it? Though it took several hundred years, it was
 done by "Shining As Lights In The World", in the manner in which Paul
 wrote in Ph 2:12-16!
 
With the help of God, perhaps we can do the same. At the very least, we
can assure that we will save ourselves through God's grace!

Paul's Son And Brother (2:19-30)
 
INTRODUCTION
 
1. We have already observed that this epistle is very personal in nature
 
2. Further proof of this is now seen as we consider Paul's remarks
 concerning two men; one described as a "son" to Paul, the other as a
 "brother" (Ph 2:19-30)
 
3. Paul's comments reveal that these two men demonstrated the "mind of
 Christ" about which Paul encouraged the Philippians to have earlier
 in this chapter
 
[In this study, we shall notice in what ways these two men demonstrated 
the "mind of Christ" in their service to their brethren, beginning 
with...]
 
I. TIMOTHY, PAUL'S "SON" (19-24)
 
 A. WHAT WERE PAUL'S PLANS CONCERNING TIMOTHY?
 1. To send him to Philippi shortly (19,23)
 a. That when Timothy returns, Paul might be encouraged by their
 condition (19b)
 b. But notice that Paul trusts in the Lord Jesus to do this -
 perhaps another way of saying, "If the Lord wills" (cf. 
 Ja 4:15)
 2. But sending Timothy would be delayed until Paul's condition was
 more fully known (23b)
 
 B. WHY USE TIMOTHY?
 1. Paul had no one else...
 a. Who was "like-minded" (20a)
 1) Who had the same mind as Paul
 2) Paul and Timothy were truly "united in spirit" and had
 that unity Paul wrote about in Ph 2:2
 3) Therefore, Timothy was the best "alternate" in the place
 of Paul
 b. Who would "sincerely care for your state" (20b)
 1) Remember, Timothy had first joined Paul just before going
 to Philippi (Ac 16:1-12)
 2) So Timothy had good reasons to be close to the brethren
 there
 a) It was "his" first missionary effort
 b) He had known of them from the very beginning of their
 existence as a congregation
 c. No other person was better suited, therefore, for this
 particular task
 2. His devotion to Christ surpassed others (21)
 a. He sought the interests of Christ, which meant the interests
 of others - cf. Ph 2:4-5
 b. So no one else surpassed Timothy in having the "mind of
 Christ"
 3. He had proved his service in similar errands (22)
 a. For example, with the church at Corinth - 1 Co 4:17
 b. He had done so with humility: "as a son with his father he
 served with me"
 c. Again, Timothy demonstrated the "mind of Christ" - Ph 2:3
 
[Such was the young man Timothy: a beloved "son" to the apostle, whose 
attitudes of humility and service made him a useful instrument in 
Paul's ministry.
 
Now let's consider...]
 
II. EPAPHRODITUS, PAUL'S "BROTHER" (25-30)
 
 A. WHO WAS EPAPHRODITUS? (25)
 1. "my brother" - a brother in Christ to the apostle Paul
 2. "fellow-worker" - a companion in the work of spreading the
 gospel
 3. "fellow-soldier" - one shared in the conflicts with the enemies
 of Christ
 4. "your messenger" - the person bearing the gift from the church
 of Philippi to Paul - cf. Ph 4:18
 5. "who ministered to my needs" - now with Paul, he offered
  himself in service to him
 
 B. WHAT KIND OF MAN WAS HE?
 1. A man of love and concern for his brethren at Philippi (26-27)
 a. He longed for his brethren while away from them
 b. He had been sick, and was distressed they knew about it
 2. A man devoted to the work of Christ (30)
 a. Who realized that serving others (like Paul and the
 Philippians) was serving Christ
 b. Who was willing to risk his life in such service - cf. 1 Jn
 3:16
 3. A man who did not mind being a "messenger"
 a. He had brought the gift to Paul from Philippi - Ph 4:18
 b. More than likely, he carried this epistle back to the
 Philippians (28)
 c. Such willingness again demonstrates humility, so important
 to possessing the "mind of Christ"
 
[Truly he was a man who lived up to his name: "Epaphroditus" means 
"handsome, charming"!]
 
CONCLUSION
 
1. Individuals like Timothy and Epaphroditus we are to hold in high
 esteem (29) - WHY?
 a. Because they demonstrate the humility and love so essential to the
 cause of Christ
 b. Because they rendered service to God and His church which is just
 as essential as that offered by men like Paul and Peter
 
2. The church today needs more people like these two men, to provide the
 backup and support necessary for the cause of Christ
 
3. We man not be a "Paul" or a "Peter", but we can be a "Timothy" or an
 "Epaphroditus" (i.e., God's "second string")!
 
4. All we need are the same attitudes they had:
 a. Sincere concern for the condition of others
 b. Seeking first the things of Christ
 c. A willingness to serve others
 d. A willingness to sacrifice themselves, even to the point of death
 
In other words, the "mind of Christ"!

－－《Executable Outlines》