Peter Ward. Leader s Handbook

Transcription

1 Leader s Handbook A series of seven studies based on Philippians focusing on getting our priorities right, and staying focused on the glory that awaits us. Prepared by Peter Ward

2 Persevere To Maturity Developed* by Peter Ward A series of seven studies based on Philippians focusing on getting our priorities right, and staying focused on the glory that awaits us. *This booklet has been prepared directly from Scripture. The author completed his own research, but acknowledges that the work done by Michael Penny and William Henry in their book Following Philippians formed the primary foundation upon which this present work was built.

3 Quotations are taken from the New International Version, unless otherwise stated. Persevere To Maturity 3

4 About This Book This book has been specifically designed for the faithful in Christ who believe that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction and for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). The author has adopted the view that Scripture itself is the best authority to comment on Scripture. With that in mind, and where possible, Scripture is compared with Scripture in order to gain the fullest possible understanding rather than rely on the opinions and traditions of men. Where known, differing opinions regarding doctrine have been included for discussion and consideration. At no time should this book be considered an authority for understanding Philippians but rather a foundation upon which to begin discussion and personal research. It is strongly recommended that groups adopt the same approach to learning from this book as the Jews at Berea did in Acts 17:11 who: were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, [and] eagerly received the message, examining the Scriptures carefully every day to see if these things were so New English Translation How To Use This Book This handbook has been designed for use by bible study groups, home groups or individuals. Group study leaders may choose to use this book: 1. On its own. The right hand pages (the odd numbered pages) are group activity pages and contain questions, sections to fill in and discussion issues. These pages can be photocopied and distributed to group members as required. There are no copyright restrictions on the use of this material. 2. In conjunction with the printed participant handbook. The participant handbook contains only the group activity pages. The left hand pages (the even numbered pages) are for leaders and contain information, comments, and suggested answers relevant to the right hand pages. While leaders are free to share the notes on the left hand pages, it is recommended that the notes be used as a guide to stimulate and direct discussion within the group. Persevere To Maturity 4

5 Introduction Unlike Romans, Colossians or the first half of Ephesians, Philippians does not consist of a formal exposition of particular doctrine. Exhortation to Christians Instead, it exhorts Christians. Our English word exhort means to urge, encourage, beseech, persuade but it also carries with it a flavour of warning. In Philippians, Christians are encouraged to persevere to maturity in their character and outlook in 4 ways: 1. To be blameless until the Day of Christ (1:10) 2. To persevere to complete the work begun in them (1:6) 3. To conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel (1:27) 4. To go on to maturity (3:14-15) Paul encourages the Philippians to do this by exhortation, teaching and example. He presents himself (4:9), Timothy (2:19-23), Epaphroditus (2:25-30) and the Lord Jesus Christ (2:5) as examples. So Philippians is a very practical epistle that provides us realistic suggestions and instructions on how we should live in relation to the Lord, and each other, so that we might live in a manner worthy of Christ s Gospel. We are to trust God and make known our requests to Him in prayer. We are to keep our minds fixed on the things that are eternal rather than those that are of the earth. We are to display an attitude of rejoicing in one another, in tribulations and in Christ Himself at all times. Background It is in Acts 16:11-40 that we read of Paul s first visit to Philippi on his second missionary journey. Philippi was the foremost city of the province and had a strong Roman influence. But there were so few Jews there that there was no synagogue. Persevere To Maturity 5

6 We read of Lydia and her household, and the Philippian jailer and his household all being converted before he leaves. He visits the Philippians twice more on his third missionary journey before returning to Jerusalem (Acts 21) where, after being threatened in the temple by some Jews who didn t accept that Jesus was the Christ and the Son of God, he was arrested and sent to Caesarea where he was imprisoned. Eventually he successfully claimed his right to have his case heard at the court of Caesar in Rome. He travelled there under guard (Acts 21-28) and after months of travel, which included a storm and being shipwrecked, arrived in Rome where he was allowed to live by himself (Acts 28:16) with a soldier to guard him. He was permitted to call together the leaders of the Jews and, using the Law and the Prophets, he tried to convince them that Jesus was the Christ and the Son of God. While some believed, others would not which gave rise to the final pronouncement of Isaiah s judgmental prophecy upon the people of Israel: They [the Jewish leaders in Rome} disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: The Holy spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: Go to this people and say, You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them (Acts 28:25-27 quoting Isaiah 6:9-10) And then followed words that would have been ominous indeed to Jewish ears: Therefore I want you to know that God s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen! (Acts 28:28). But Paul was in prison where he was to remain for the next 2 years. So what was he going to do about getting God s message to the Gentiles? Well, as well as having visitors, he wrote letters. It is toward the end of his imprisonment (Philippians 2:24) that he wrote to the Philippians informing them that he hoped to be able to visit them shortly. Clearly, he knew his case was about to be heard and was hopeful for a good result. Persevere To Maturity 6

7 Servants This is the Greek word doulos which, in some places in the NIV is translated slaves. Consider that Paul considered himself to be redeemed. Redeemed was a word in those times to describe slaves who had been purchased by benevolent people who intended to set them free. Paul considered himself a slave of Christ who had bought him with blood and set him free. Saints When we hear the word Saints we often think of super Christians St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Augustine. But it is not what is meant here in Philippians. The word refers simply to ordinary, everyday Christians God s people. In the Old Testament (e.g. Psalm 34:9) it was used exclusively in reference to the Jews God s chosen people. But in the New Testament, we find Paul using it at the beginning of many of his letters to address both the Jewish and Gentile converts to Christianity. So if we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, we are saints! The word saint is hagios which means holy one. There are two aspects to being holy that we need to consider: 1. When we believe in Christ Jesus as our Saviour, we are said to be in Christ and God separates us to Himself. To be Holy means to be separate, to be different. This act of separation by God makes us holy, makes us different, makes us saints. 2. When we believe in Christ Jesus as our Saviour, we must separate ourselves from the sin of this world thereby making ourselves different. So we are IN the world, but not OF the world. Overseer (Bishop KJV) A person of mature spiritual experience and understanding who is completely upright and walks the walk. Overseers were appointed in each of the local churches. They oversaw what went on in those churches. Deacon A person who carried out the wishes of the overseer. These were the servants of the church. The role defined in 1 Timothy makes it clear that this is not a role for the new Christian. This is the only time in Scripture when these 2 officers are mentioned together. Persevere To Maturity 7

8 Study 1: Pure and blameless until the Day of Christ Paul s Greeting 1:1 Paul and Timothy, of Christ Jesus, to all the in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the _ and _ What does it mean to be a servant of Christ? Who is a saint? We, as saints, are the world, but not the world. What is an overseer? What is a deacon? Turn to 1 Timothy 3:1-12 to learn about overseers and deacons Persevere To Maturity 8

9 Paul Appointed to teach Paul had been appointed by the risen Christ to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. The Common Thread Grace and peace to you Peace This is the Greek word eirene and was the normal Jewish greeting. The Hebrew word for it is Shalom. For us, peace normally means the absence of war, freedom from trouble. A general lack of problems. But for the Jews, it was much more than this. Turn to Psalm 85:10 Love and faithfulness meet together, Righteousness and peace kiss each other This is a very positive form of peace desiring the total well-being of the person and wanting for them the highest good that comes from God. Grace This is the Greek word charis and was the normal Greek greeting which brought with it the idea of joy and pleasure, brightness and beauty. Our English work charm comes from this word. It probably didn t carry quite the depth that shalom did for the Jews. Additional thoughts: Charis occurs 28 times in the Gospels, 16 times in Acts and 110 times in Paul s epistles. Question: Why so many more times in Paul s epistles? Answer: Look at Ephesians 3:2 by this time the administration (dispensation KJV) of Grace had been instituted by God. Look also at 1 Corinthians 9:17 The KJV reads a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. Thus, Paul had an administration of the gospel committed to him earlier, and the administration of grace committed to him later. Paul s Skill Paul takes Grace and Peace, links them together, and associates them with God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ but in doing so, he also brings together the well-known and frequently used greetings of both the jews and the gentiles as a symbol of unity in Christ. This is no ordinary grace. This is the grace of God, and everything for man s greatest good comes from Him. Persevere To Maturity 9

10 1:2 _ and _ to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ Acts 9:15 Who had Paul been appointed to teach? Romans 1:7, 1 Corinthians 1:3, 2 Corinthians 1:2, Galatians 1:3, Ephesians 1:2, Colossians 1:2, 1 Thessalonians 1:1, 2 Thessalonians 1:2 What is the common thread that can be seen in all of these readings? What is Peace? What is Grace? Persevere To Maturity 10

11 Paul s Gratitude Paul thanks God for the faithful Philippians because of their partnership with him in the gospel. They gave a lot to support Paul so that he could preach and teach. Philippians 4:10, 18 One of the reasons that he wrote this letter was to thank them for the gift they had sent. In Philippians 4:15 we learn that in the early days of his ministry to that region, they were the only church who shared with him in the matter of giving. Paul s Confidence in the Philippians Take care with being confident of this. Is it that confidence in their partnership in the gospel, or that he who began the work will carry it on? Paul is confident that they would carry on this good work because it was God who began the good work in them and it was He who would bring it to completion. See also Philippians 2:13. The day of Christ Jesus Some believe this to be just a long period of time not unlike the Day of the Lord. However, the work which he has done in us will be brought to completion on the day of His return. Persevere To Maturity 11

12 Paul s prayer of thanksgiving 1:3-8 I _ my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the _ of _. What is the reason for Paul s gratitude? Phil 4:10,18 What are some of the reasons that Paul wrote this letter? Why is he confident that they would carry on their good work? When is this day of Christ Jesus? What will happen on this day? Persevere To Maturity 12

13 On the day of Christ Jesus On the day of Christ Jesus the following will happen: 1. He will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body 2. We will be clothed with Christ s righteousness 3. The whole Body of Christ shall be presented as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. Paul s feelings toward the Philippians: 1. gratitude and joy seen in the previous verses 2. He longs to see them again 3. He has great affection for them 4. He holds them in his heart No matter where he was, free or in prison no matter what he was doing, defending or proclaiming the gospel the Philippians shared in God s grace. Primarily by their giving. Persevere To Maturity 13

14 Phil 3:20-21, 2 Cor 5:21, Eph 5:27 What will happen on the day of Christ Jesus? That is completeness indeed! 1:7-8 It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. What were Paul s feelings toward the Philippians? Persevere To Maturity 14

15 Paul s prayer of encouragement The Philippians were obviously a caring, loving group of Christians. So Paul s prayer here is not one for love, but for love abounding more and more in knowledge. The Greek word for knowledge is gnosis. That is not the word used here in Scripture. The word used is epignosis. This means a fuller, deeper knowledge. He wanted them to experience a love that transcends ordinary knowledge (gnosis). We see this elsewhere also: Ephesians 3:17-19 And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. The Philippians most certainly were rooted and established in love. Paul wanted them to go on and learn more about just how wide and long and high and deep is that love of Christ a love that surpasses knowledge. God Breathed The Bible is a wonderful book that is God breathed. It does tell us what is right and wrong. It does not necessarily tell us what is best. What is best may vary from person to person, from situation to situation, from society to society. To be able to discern what is best, we require a greater and deeper understanding of the love of Christ. Philippians tells us in 1:9-11 that if the Philippians did not only what was right, but also chose what was best, then they would be pure and blameless and filled with the fruit of righteousness and they would be to the glory and praise of God. And so it is for us. Persevere To Maturity 15

16 Paul s prayer of encouragement 1:9-11 And this is my : that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God. Ephesians 3:17-19 Was Paul s prayer just for abounding love in knowledge? The Bible is God breathed. Does it tell us what is right and wrong? Does it always tell us what is best? YES NO YES NO Persevere To Maturity 16

17 The Fruit of Righteousness This is the only time that this expression occurs in the NIV. But there are 2 other similar ones: Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) Fruit of the Light (Ephesians 5:9) Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control All goodness, righteousness and truth Some believe that the fruit of righteousness is referring the fruits mentioned in these passages in Galatians and Ephesians. But here in Philippians 1:11, where we have the fruit of righteousness, we have the genitive of apposition which means that righteousness is the fruit of discerning what is best. The KJV has two other places where the fruit of righteousness occurs and each of these shows that righteousness is the fruit. Hebrews 12:11 speaks of a harvest (KJV=fruit) of righteousness and peace. James 3:18 states that Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness, which the KJV translates as the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. The fruit of righteousness would be better translated the fruit, which is righteousness, (note the commas). So righteousness is the fruit of discerning what is best thereby being pure and blameless until the day of Christ. Persevere To Maturity 17

18 What is the fruit of righteousness? There are two other similar expressions: Galatians 5:22-23 Ephesians 5:9 Fruit of the Spirit Fruit of the Light Hebrews 12:11, James 3:18 The passage would be better translated: that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit, righteousness, that comes through Jesus Christ. So righteousness is the fruit of Persevere To Maturity 18

19 Consider the Discussion Points, then read Other thoughts Being a follower of the Lord is not something we can do, or not do, depending on our inclination. We are not just followers of a religion, or even of a person. We are not just religious to a greater or lesser degree. Our relationship with the Lord is much closer than those of followers. Paul and Timothy call themselves slave. That gives them an obligation to serve not an option to serve. Both the Philippians to whom Paul is writing, and we, are set apart for God. Service isn t an option, it is a logical result of who we have become in Christ. We have a remarkable security because we aren t just slaves, but sons of Christ (Galatians 3:26). But with that privelege comes a tremendous responsibility to behave as true members of God s family. How easy do you find it to think of yourself as holy? Does this not conjure up images of religious men with halos, hands clasped, gazing up into heaven? The truth is... everthing we do (other than sin) is holy because it is set apart for him our work, our relationships with family, our friendships, and everhting else. God tells us that we are holy. We have been set apart. Now He wants us to be who we are,... not to become holy so that we will be acceptable to God, but to behave in a certain way because we are holy and accepted by God in Christ. This is the idea that is presented to us in both of Paul s prayers in this section. There is a great deal to challenge us here: the need to keep our eyes fixed on the Day of Christ as a reference point The need to develop perception and judgment in following god s will in practice The need to get our lifestyle priorities right so that we do not waste time in trivia and may have the wisdom to select, not just what is good, but what is best in terms of our choices in morality and conduct. The need to have hearts that are open and sincere, without hidden, selfseeking motives, especially having in view our witness before others The need to realise that our spiritual growth and development has as its ulimate objective the bringing of glory and praise to God (v11) Persevere To Maturity 19

20 Discussion Points 1. Paul recognises that the Philippians behaviour is due to God s Spirit in action. Yet at the same time, it is the Philippians themselves who are performing the service. To what extent is our development towards Christian maturity a work of God in our lives? What part do we have to play? How do we and God s Spirit work together? 2. Paul brings the Day of Christ before his readers right at the start of the letter. Why is it important to keep that day in our minds as we consider the way we should live? What are the dangers for our lives on earth if we lose sight of That day? Look at Colossians 3:1-4 where Paul says something similar. 3. A an illustration of the process of rejecting what is good for the sake of what is better, see Romans 14: Exercising your Christian freedom may be good (v16), but if you are not acting in love it is better not to exercise that freedom (v15). Why is this an indication of maturity? Are there any contemporary examples you can think of? Persevere To Maturity 20

21 Paul in Chains Read the following then pose the question How could Paul being put in chains serve to advance the Gospel? Following his third missionary journey, Paul returned to Jerusalem where trouble met him at the hands of the Jews. He was escorted by Roman soldiers to Caesarea where he was in prison for two years. Following his appeal to Caesar, he was taken to Rome, suffered a shipwreck, and at the time of writing Philippians had been under house arrest for two years. Chained, Imprisoned, Silenced House arrest at that time meant being guarded by Roman soldiers. Think about that for a minute. He was under house arrest for nearly two years... that s nearly 730 days! What sorts of opportunities do you think he would have had to preach, and therefore advance, the gospel? Many different Roman soldiers working shifts to guard him would, over so much time, have spent a great deal of time with him. If converted, they would have been excellent allies House arrest also means visitors allowed. How many Roman soldiers listened to these Christians in conversation? Paul dictated letters which the Roman soldiers would have to have heard. So much of the Roman guard would have known about Jesus Christ and that Paul was in prison because he believed in Christ. Inspiration through Paul s courage during his imprisonment. Many had seen his courage and that nothing had happened to him. The Romans were being quite lenient and even disinterested (not like in Jerusalem and Judea). So Christians were speaking out for Christ courageously and fearlessly although some didn t have honourable motives. Persevere To Maturity 21

22 Study 2: Paul s Priorities a) Paul s Main Concern: The advancement of the Gospel 1:12-14 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in for Christ. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more and _ Chained?, Imprisoned?, Silenced?... How could Paul being put in chains serve to advance the Gospel? Persevere To Maturity 22

23 Stirring up Trouble Scripture doesn t provide a clear answer to what this means. Two possibilities include: 1. perhaps by preaching Christ, they felt they may be able to add to the weight of opinion against Paul by the various authorities thereby making it even more difficult for him when he was released 2. perhaps it was spiteful motivated by jealousy i.e. to make him feel bad because they were out there free, and preaching and winning converts to Christ while he was stuck in chains in prison unable to do anything. It didn t matter However, Paul wasn t silenced while he was in chains, and Christ was being preached! So their actions didn t impact him personally at all. It is not one person that is the power of god for the salvation of everyone who believes (Romans 1:16) it is the gospel PLUS as the Lord said in Isaiah The important thing is that Christ is preached. Today If the church down the road is bringing people to Christ, and is growing, and ours is not, Paul leads by example in showing us that we should rejoice because Christ is being preached and people are coming to know Him regardless of where that is happening. Persevere To Maturity 23

24 1:15-17 It is true that some preach Christ out of and _, but others out of. The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defence of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of _, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. What sort of trouble might the some be able to stir up? Did it work?... 1:18a But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Romans 1:16 and Isaiah 55:11 Why didn t it matter? Because was being. What can we learn from this in our lives? As long as Christ is preached, and people are believing and being saved, we should not envy, we should _! Persevere To Maturity 24

25 Did the promise to the twelve in Luke 21 extend to Paul? Acts 9:15-16 suggests that it did. It would therefore have given him the words and wisdom to speak in a way that his oppressors could not resist or contradict. To Live is Christ and to die is gain (read comments at bottom p31 before starting this section) Pose the question what does he mean by..to live is Christ and to die is gain? There are two schools of thought: 1. If Paul lived, he would live for Christ, but if he died it would be a personal gain because he would be in heaven (at that moment) with his saviour. 2. If Paul lived, he would live for Christ, but his death would also be Christ s gain perhaps through martyrdom THE KEY Compare Scripture with Scripture. School of thought 1: References that support this view: Luke 23:43 and 2 Corinthians 5: Corinthians 5:1-8 speaks of the desire to be absent from the body and present with the Lord, but does not make it clear when presence with the Lord would occur. Luke 23:43 presents the clearest picture that absent from the body = immediate presence with the Lord in Heaven. But if this be so, Matthew 27:62-66 (see also Luke 23:50-Luke 24:2 and Luke 24:21); and John 20:17. Present a conundrum. Question: How could Christ have been in Paradise that same day with the thief if we are told in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John that he was in the grave for 3 days, and John tells us that on the third day, he had not yet ascended to His Father? School of thought 2: References that support this view: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19, Philippians 3: Each of these Scriptures speaks of the resurrection of the dead which Paul clearly knew about. However, while they all have the resurrection of the dead in full view, none suggest when this resurrection will occur. It could be at a future time, or immediately on death. It is 1 Corinthians 15:50-54 that informs our understanding of when the resurrection of the dead in Christ shall occur when it says: the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and will be changed. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 supports this when it says For we tell you this by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will surely not go ahead of those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. We see it again in John 5: Another reason why Paul could not have had his own personal gain in mind in 1:21 is that the whole tenor of the passage is of a) care for the Philippians, and b) concern for the advancement of the Gospel of Christ. It is Philippians 1:20 that makes it clear that he did not have his own gain in mind and he repeats this same sentiment in 1:21. 1:21 might better be rendered For to me, to live or die is Christ s gain. cont. on page 26 Persevere To Maturity 25

26 b) Paul s Main Aim: The exaltation of Christ 1:18b 19 Yes and I will continue to _, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. Luke 21:12-15 Acts 9:15-16 What help had the Holy Spirit given him? It had given him the _ and the to deal with his adversaries. 1:20-21 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient _ so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to _ is. Luke 23:43 2 Corinthians 5:1-8 Philippians 3: Corinthians 15: Thessalonians 4: Corinthians 15:42, What does Paul mean by to live is Christ and to die is gain? Persevere To Maturity 26

27 cont. from page 24 Solution to the problem identified in Luke 23:43 School of thought 2 addresses our initial question of what does Paul mean by to die is gain, but we are still left with the problem identified in Luke 23:43. The answer lies in the original language. In the original Greek, there are no commas. The placement of the comma is what determines the meaning and intent of this verse. The translators had to choose where to put the comma. Almost all translators today present Luke 23:43 thus: And Jesus said to him I tell you the truth, this day you will see me in Paradise. But if we move the comma just one word to the right, we have: And Jesus said to him I tell you the truth today, you will see me in Paradise. Rotheram is the only translator (known to the author) that renders Luke 23:43 in a way that reflects other Scriptural comment on what happens to believers after death: And he [Jesus] said unto him Verily, I say unto thee this day: With me, shalt thou be in Paradise. Depart to be with Christ We can be forgiven for thinking that Paul has a desire for death - especially in the context of our previous discussion about being in heaven immediately upon death. However a close look at the original Greek leads us to another conclusion. The Greek word for depart is analusai which means the departure, not to depart as it has been translated. This word occurs in only one other place in Scripture Luke 12: where it is translated return. Further research reveals that the word is often translated return in the Apocrypha*. Thus it would seem that Paul s choice was not his personal departure, but the departure of Christ from where He is seated at the right hand of God to return to earth also known as the second coming. A better rendering of this passage would be I desire the return (departure from heaven) of Christ so that I can be with Him which certainly fits the context better for that is exactly what he wrote a few verses later in Philippians 3:20-21 During the Acts period, there still remained the possibility of Christ returning. But following God s judgment on Israel in Acts 28:25-27, this was no longer the case. So Paul knew that it was necessary for him to remain in his body so that he could prepare the Philippians for that day of resurrection the day when Christ returned. *Apocrypha: The general term is usually applied to the books that the Protestant Christian Church considered useful but not divinely inspired. Persevere To Maturity 27

28 1:22-26 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labour for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. What did Paul mean by depart to be with Christ? Luke 12:35-36 Philippians 3:20-21 He is speaking of the of Christ. He knew that it was _ for him to remain in his so that he could prepare the Philippians for that day of resurrection the day when Christ returned. Persevere To Maturity 28

29 The Christian Response No matter what confronts us, we should always conduct ourselves in a manner which brings honour to the name of Christ. This type of worthy conduct shows people that we are standing firm in one spirit, contending for the faith of the gospel. Why? It encourages and inspires other Christians, and shows those who oppose us that we have confidence in God the God who will save us. Consider Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego Daniel 3:16-18 What were the Philippians to expect? To suffer for him since you are going through the same struggle that Paul had had, and still has. This suggests that, given that he had been opposed and imprisoned, and was under house arrest, the Philippians could expect to be opposed, imprisoned and held under house arrest. It is a matter of record that, within a few years, Caesar Nero took pleasure in persecuting Christians, throwing them to the lions, dipping them in tar, setting them alight and using them as human torches. Persevere To Maturity 29

30 c) The Christian Response: Unity in one spirit) 1:27-30 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you _ in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. No matter what confronts us, we should always conduct ourselves in a manner which brings to the name of _. This type of _ shows people that we are in one, for the faith of the. Daniel 3:16-18 Why? What were the Philippians to expect? Persevere To Maturity 30

31 Consider the Discussion Points, then read 1. Section 1: Philippians 1:12-18 It is not uncommon for Christian groups to split because of personal differences or awkward relationships. Paul provides us a powerful example with a different attitude that encourages us to stay focused on why we are a community in the first place the furtherance of Christ s work. 2. Section 3: Philippians 1:27-30 See Colossians 1:10 and Ephesians 4:1 The word translated conduct yourselves is the verbal from of citizenship which comes from the Greek word for a city and means the life of people in a community where they develop and exercise their skills. Philippi was a Roman colony but quite remote from Rome. A miniature Rome. In the same way, Christians are remote from their city (which is in heaven as Paul says in chapter 3). Christian communities are to be a miniature heaven here on earth. It is critical that the life of believers within the Christian community is appropriate and this is the area Paul concentrates on. We should conduct ourselves in a worthy manner seeking to live a life that is worthy of the calling we have received. But we are NOT here as isolated individuals who are going to heaven alone. We belong corporately to the church which is the body of Christ and our corporate life here should reflect our citizenship there. 3. What principles should govern us? Stand firm in one spirit: defensive formation ready to resist attack Contending as one man: a team in unison acting as one Without being frightened: an expression that is sometimes used of horse shying when startled. Paul was emphasising togetherness in Philippians. If a church is divided, it will not be able to cope with the opposition it faces. It is important to realise that we should prioritise the proclamation of the Christian message to a lost world and the glorification of the Lord Jesus Christ in our daily lives. This is difficult alone thus the importance of Christian community. Persevere To Maturity 31

32 Discussion Points 1. In the first section of Philippians (1:12-18) Paul demonstrates singleness of purpose in the furtherance of the gospel. He used his imprisonment for the cause. Would you have done that?... or kept quiet? His only concern was Christ preached. Would you be that single-minded, even if some people have impure motives and are trying to damage you and your cause? 2. In the third section (1:27-30) the priority is given to the glorification of Christ in our lives and the proclamation of the Gospel to those outside of Christ. What do you think are the main stumbling blocks in Christian fellowships today that cause us to lose sight of this priority? How should we approach the achievement of that priority? 3. What principles are presented in verses 27 & 28 that should govern our Christian community life here on earth? Persevere To Maturity 32

33 Better translation for if Paul is not asking if these conditions exist. The word if here is the Greek ei followed by the indicative mood i. This means that the suggestion proposed by the if is assumed as a fact. The Bible in Worldwide English puts it this way: Does Christ speak to you? Does love call to you? Do you have a part in the Holy Spirit? Do you have any love and care for others? The answer to each question is of course!. The passage might therefore be better translated: Since you have encouragement from being united with Christ, since you have comfort from his love, since you have fellowship with the Spirit since you have tenderness and compassion This rendering of the original makes more sense in light of Chapter 1:3-11 where we find Paul commenting on the qualities of the Philippians. He knew that they had all the qualities presented here in chapter 2. Like Minded Young s Literal Translation reads: Fulfil ye my joy, that ye may mind the same thing. See Philippians 1:18 this same thing can only be the gospel of Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 The one thing to be unified over is the gospel of salvation. Without this, Christianity becomes confused and unclear. It matters not whether we are Anglican, Presbyterian or Uniting Church. It matters not whether we are pre-millennial, post-millennial, or a-millennial. It matters not whether we have a dispensational theology or a covenant theology. All these things can be debated but there can be no debate over the fact that Christ died for our sins and rose again on the third day. Persevere To Maturity 33

34 Study 3: The attitude of Christ Jesus a) An appeal for unity 2:1-5 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Paul presents four ifs and four desires here. What would the ifs be better translated as? _ you have encouragement _ you have comfort from his love, _ you have fellowship with the Spirit _ you have tenderness and compassion What does it mean to be like-minded? 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 What is the one spirit and purpose? The one thing over which the Philippians must be like-minded, have the same love, and be one in spirit and one in purpose over is presenting a unified gospel of _. If it is not, Christianity becomes and _. Persevere To Maturity 34

35 Humility Paul is not talking about strengths and weaknesses of individuals, nor is he suggesting that a classical scholar who has degrees in Hebrew and Greek should consider lay people as being better at ancient languages than he is. It is likely that he is referring to us thinking of other Christians as better Christians than ourselves. Humility should be our aim, and personal vanity and rivalry should not be found in us. Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord. Something to be grasped This does not mean that Christ didn t reach out to try to grab hold of it. He was equal with God, but did not consider equality with God something to be kept hold of. i.e. did not consider equality with God something to be kept hold of. Christ humbled Himself Christ humbled himself and became a servant of others doing what others needed which included: Feeding them Healing them Teaching them Guiding them Dying for them. We could say that Jesus gave up everything, and we would not be far wrong. Paul wanted the Philippians to display such a selfless attitude, to consider the interests of others, not just their own. And he wants the same from us. Persevere To Maturity 35

36 2:3-5 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:15 makes it clear that Paul did not want the Philippians to be like those who had preached Christ out of envy and rivalry. 1 Corinthians 1:31 2 Corinthians 10:17 Let him who boasts _ in the. b) The humility of the Lord Jesus 2:6-7 Who, being in very nature god, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness What does Paul mean when he says something to be grasped? 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death even death on a cross. Christ humbled himself and became a servant of others doing what others needed which included: _ them _ them them _ them _ for them. Persevere To Maturity 36

37 Christ Exalted The Lord Jesus did what he had to do: became man and died on the cross. Because He cared more for the interests and needs of others, God raised Him from the dead, took Him up to heaven, exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name which is above every name. And although He had been despised and rejected on this earth, there will come a time when every knee shall bow and every tongue confesses that Jesus Christ is Lord. What a day that will be! Persevere To Maturity 37

38 c) The exaltation of the Lord Jesus 2:9-11 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every kneed should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This section in Philippians is one of three glorious passages that exalt Christ. Compare and think on these things. Philippians 2:6-11 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, he made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Ephesians 1:19-23 That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way. Colossians 1:15-20 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything He might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross Notes: Persevere To Maturity 38

39 Consider the Discussion Points, then read Other thoughts Verse 11 of Chapter 2 of Philippians ends with the statement that the confession of every bowed knee of the Lordship of Jesus Christ has at its very heart the glorification of God the Father. It is important to understand that the glorification of the name of the Father is the goal of the ages because the plan of salvation has been worked out by God from before the fall of Adam. This is made clear from a number of Scriptures: John 17:1-5 Christ is asking the Father to restore Him to the position of glory that He held before the foundation of the world. Why? because Jesus brought glory to the Father on earth by completing the work the Father gave Him to do (v4) John 12:27-28 As His crucifixion draws near He could have chosen to pray fro deliverance, but He didn t. Instead He prays that the Father s Name will be glorified. Ephesians 1:3-14 Paul praises God the Father for the blessings poured out upon us through the work of Christ and confirmed by the giving of the Holy Spirit. The plan is the Father s. Romans 11:33-36 Paul spends three chapters tracing the twists and turns of God s purpose through history and then concludes that God has brought all men into a position of disobedience not to condemn them, but to have mercy on them (v32). Then he praises God the Father for the perfection of His plan, His wisdom and His judgments. The Lord Jesus Christ is our Saviour and He died for us, but He is also the supreme example of someone who regarded the purpose of the Father for His life as a complete priority. He did not stand on His dignity but took on the role of a servant to do the will of His Father, ministering to the needs of others, and even going to the cross. We may not be asked to go that far, but, like our Lord and Master, we need to be prepared to subordinate our personal comforts and status to the purposes of the Father, which invariably involves us in service for others: In this way we can bring glory to the Father, who chose us to be holy and blameless before Him (Ephesians 1:4) Persevere To Maturity 39

40 Discussion Points 1. Read Ephesians 4:14-16 and consider Paul s vision for the mature church. Notice the unity and diversity? How should this operate in practice today? (see Phil 2:3-4) 2. In Philippians 2:4 Paul says that we should look out, not only for our own interests, but those of others, and that we should think of others as better than ourselves. What practical ways can we apply this in our Christian fellowship? 3. Like the Lord Jesus, we are called to be obedient to the Father and His purposes. This means that we will serve others and prioritise their interests before ours. But we can never be the slaves of others: our responsibility is to the Lord. Consider how this can be achieved in practice e.g. can excessive demands of church service damage our relationships with family members? Persevere To Maturity 40

41 Fear and trembling The meaning of the expression is more than the sum of its parts. It is more akin to sincerity of heart and reverence which ties in with Proverbs 1:7. The word fear does not mean to be scared of, but to be in awe of, to revere. Thus, the Philippians were exhorted to work at this Christ-like selflessness with a sincere attitude and out of reverence for the Lord. Complaining and arguing Complaining and arguing existed in the early church too. Ephesians 4:30-31 tells us that bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, and malice grieve the Holy Spirit. We must realise that such behaviours amongst us pain God. There will always be differences of opinions amongst us about an almost limitless number of subjects: politics, morals, ethics, Scriptural doctrine, personalities etc. But we must remember: and 1. Philippians 2:3 in humility, consider others better than yourselves 2. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Persevere To Maturity 41

42 Study 4: Salvation worked out a) Salvation worked out: God s work and our response 2:12-13 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence continue to work out your salvation with and _, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose Proverbs 1:7 For those who believe in Christ, God has a father s love. So why should Christians be in fear and trembling? 2:14-16 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labour in vain Complaining and arguing are not modern phenomena. Ephesians 4:30-31 Persevere To Maturity 42

43 Paul wanted them to shine like stars in the universe by considering the interests of others, and considering others to be better than themselves. At work people will complain about the boss, the salary, the holidays, the conditions. The question is, do we join in? Christian morals and ethics Christian morals and ethics are fine for Christians to hold out to each other as guides of behaviour. But they are just that Christian morals and ethics which are, by their nature, for Christians. There is little point in holding these out to non- Christians. Instead, we must hold out the gospel of salvation to non-christians that Christ died for our sins and, on the third day, rose from the dead. Once saved, people are immediately sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14) and God can then work with them helping them to obey him. If the Philippians were like this, then Paul could boast about them on the day of Christ. Persevere To Maturity 43

44 Paul wanted them to _ like _ in the by considering the _ of others, and considering others to be than themselves. Why? John 13:35 By this will know that you are my _, if you one _. We can argue for Christian morals and ethics, but Christian morals and ethics are for Christians. For non-christians, we must hold out the gospel. Michael Penny Following Philippians p 72 Where can we shine today? Persevere To Maturity 44

45 Salvation Worked Out Paul uses the figure of a drink offering to reflect on the possibility of his death. We see him use the same figure in 2 Timothy 4:6 about 2 years later. Notice that his death was a very real threat here in Philippians but it did not divert or worry him. Quite the contrary. He rejoiced with them especially because of the sacrifice and service they had given him. His comments here reflect those found in Philippians 1:9-11. In essence, there can be no greater priority for a Christian leader than to see the believers in his care go on to maturity. As we read Paul s writings it becomes clear that he realised that the working out of his salvation involved him surrendering himself to the Lord and, if that meant physical martyrdom, then he would consider it the ultimate end to a life of living sacrifice to which he refers in Romans 12:1. Here in Philippians 2:17-18 Paul demonstrates a single minded focus on Christ that we as Christians should aspire to. Persevere To Maturity 45

46 a) Salvation worked out: The example of Paul 2:17-18 But even if I am being poured out like a drink on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. _ 2 Timothy 4:6 Philippians 1:9-11 Romans 12:1 _ Persevere To Maturity 46

47 The Example of Timothy Paul makes it clear that Timothy is the only one that he can trust and depend upon to have a genuine interest in the Philippians welfare. Note the comment about everyone looking out for their own interests. This reminds us of what Paul said in Philippians 2:4 where he instructs us to look to the interests of others. It seems that Timothy was someone that he could send to the Philippians who was a demonstration of this very principle. Moreover, the Philippians knew Timothy well. During the Acts period Timothy had been with Paul when Paul visited the Philippians on three separate occasions Acts 16, Acts 19:22 and Acts 20:3-6). Note also the reference to Timothy s behaviour being like that of a son with his father. He had been a faithful servant, and an important asset in his service of Christ. In the Greek, there is definite emphasis on the word him. It suggests that it is he that Paul wants to send but intends to wait until his verdict before sending him. Persevere To Maturity 47

48 a) Salvation worked out: The example of Timothy 2:19-23 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send _ to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. Philippians 2:4 is the one I want to send, but I await my _ before sending him. Who was Timothy? Acts 16:1, 17:14-15, 18:5, 19:22, 1 Corinthians 4:17, 1 Timothy 1:2-3, 1:18, Hebrews 13:23 Summary of who Timothy was: Persevere To Maturity 48

49 I am confident in the Lord. Paul had written Ephesians, Colossians and Philemon almost all at the same time earlier in his imprisonment. Philemon 22, and here in Philippians 2:24, it is clear that he is confident of being freed. The only time he seems to doubt this is in Philippians 1: Paul was as human as we are. He did occasionally experience doubt, but didn t let it slow him down, or change the focus of his message about Christ. The Example of Epaphroditus Notice the phrase back to you. Epaphroditus was sent to Paul by the Philippians. He and Paul had become very close. Paul describes him as a brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier. Verse 29 tells us that he was a person to be honoured. Notice particularly the phrase your messenger. That word messenger in the Greek is apostolos. Epaphroditus was literally your apostle the one that the Philippian church had sent to care for Paul s needs. Note also that he had fallen ill, but still his concern was for the church at Philippi. He longed for them and was distressed because his friends had heard that had been ill and worried about them. He showed the same attitude as Timothy, and the same attitude as the Lord Jesus Christ looking beyond his own suffering to the feelings of others. Persevere To Maturity 49

50 2: 24 And I am _ in the Lord that I myself will come soon. Philemon 22, Philippians 1:25-27 a) Salvation worked out: The example of Epaphroditus 2:25-27 But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me Who was Epaphroditus? Philippians 2:25-26 Summary of who Epaphroditus was: Persevere To Maturity 50

51 COMPARE these two readings: Acts 19:11-12 and Philippians 2:27 Contradiction or Changed Conditions? See the table on the next page listing all miracles in the New Testament. The column graph under the table clearly shows that, after Paul heals the sick brought to him on Malta in Acts 28 verse 9, there are no more miracles presented in Scripture ii. While the lack of miracles being reported in Scripture after Acts is not on its own evidence that there had been a change in conditions, the lack of Paul s ability to heal Epaphroditus (Phil 2:25-30) and Trophimus (2 Tim 4:20), coupled with the absence of miracles reported in Scripture thereafter, represents strong evidence that a change had occurred in the conditions of the administration of grace that Paul speaks of in Ephesians 3:2. There are abundant miracles during the Gospels, and also throughout Acts. At the end of Acts we find the final pronouncement of Isaiah s judgmental prophecy upon Israel after which God proclaimed that His salvation was to be sent to the Gentiles (Acts 28:25-28). Since we see no evidence of miraculous healings occurring in any of the post Acts letters (Eph, Phil, Col, 1 & 2 Tim, Titus and Philemon), it seems likely that the work of the Holy Spirit that commenced at Acts 2:4 (and included instant healing, prophecy, tongues speaking etc) was discontinued at the pronouncement of Isaiah s judgmental prophecy upon Israel in Acts 28: This would certainly fit contextually. While many bibles present the Acts as The Acts of the Apostles, the original title of the book was probably just Acts. Given the witnesses spoken of in Acts 10:41, a better way to think of the title of this book is The Acts of the Holy Spirit through witnesses chosen before of God. Now, the Acts period is that period during which the final offer of national restoration and blessing was being made to the children of Israel. Christ had ascended and the Holy Spirit instituted to assist the disciples to turn Israel back to God. The condition of that offer was national repentance and obedience. God even went so far as to provoke them to jealousy by including the Gentile nation (an idea introduced to Peter during his vision in Acts 10:11-16 and first manifested when Cornelius received the Holy Spirit in Acts 10:45) in Romans 11:11 but to no effect. Israel continues to reject God and so is finally set aside at the announcement of Isaiah s judgmental prophecy in Acts 28: The Holy Spirit s work through the witnesses had come to an end. A new period was beginning one in which grace alone (rather than law and judgment) was (and continues to be) the only way that God deals with the people of the earth. What about today? From what we know of Paul, he almost certainly prayed to God for Epaphroditus healing and God, on this occasion, answered his prayer by healing him. Like Paul in the way he dealt with Epaphroditus illness, prayer is the appropriate way to deal with sickness and healing today. It is no longer a case of laying hands on the sick and expecting instant healing as it was during the Acts of the Holy Spirit during the Acts period. Persevere To Maturity 51

52 Acts 19:11-12 Philippians 2:27 This is the first time in the New Testament that we see Paul (or anyone), not using the Holy Spirit s gift of healing to heal the sick. Take this unto the sick, and they shall be healed What s wrong with this picture? Lord, if it be Thy will, heal him Contradiction or Changed Conditions? How was it possible for Paul to send a handkerchief to heal the sick in Acts, but could not heal Epaphroditus who was with him in Philippians? Persevere To Maturity 52

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54 Miracles Recorded in the New Testament Miracle Book Ref Leper healed Matthew 8:2 Also in Mark 1:40 & Luke 5:12 Centurion s servant healed 8:5 Also in Luke 7:1 Peter s wife s mother cured 8:14 Also in Mark 1:30 & Luke 4:38 The tempest stilled 8:23 Also in Mark 4:37 & Luke 8:26 Two Gadarene men possessed by demons, cured 8:28 Also in Mark 5:1 & Luke 8:26 Man sick of the palsy cured 9:2 Also in Mark 2:3 & Luke 5:18 Woman s issue of blood cured 9:20 Also in Mark 5:25 & Luke 8:43 Jairus s daughter raised from death 9:23 Also in Mark 5:23 & Luke 8:41 Two blind men cured 9:27-31 Man s withered hand cured 12:10 Also in Mark 3:1 & Luke 6:6 Man possessed by a demon blind and dumb, cured 12:22 Also in Luke 11:14 Jesus feeds 5,000 14:15 Also in Mark 6:30, Luke 9:10 & John 6:1-14 Jesus walks on the sea 14:25 Also in Mark 6:48 & John 6:15 A Canaanite woman s daughter cured 15:28 Also in Mark 7:24 Four thousand fed 15:32 Also in Mark 8:1 Jesus transfiguration 17:1-8 An epileptic child cured 17:14 Also in Mark 9:14 & Luke 9:37 Piece of money in fishes mouth 17:24-27 Two blind men cured 20:29 Also in Mark 10:46 & Luke 18:35 Fig tree blasted 21:18 Also in Mark 11:12 The miraculous conception Luke 1:35 Christ s ascension 2:42-51 Christ s resurrection John 21:1-14 Violent wind and tongues of fire herald the Holy Spirit Acts 2:26 Many signs and wonders done by the Apostles in Jerusalem 2:43 Peter heals the lame man at the temple gate 3:1-16 Shaking of the assembly building in Jerusalem 4:31 Ananias and Saphira struck dead at Peter s feet 5:5-11 Apostles perform signs and wonders among the people 5:12 Peter s shadow cures many in the streets 5:15 Multitudes from outside Jerusalem are healed 5:16 Prison doors open for the Apostles 5:17-25 Stephen works great signs and wonders 6:8 Philip cures crippled and possessed in Samaria 8:6-18,13 Philip snatched by the Spirit of the Lord 8:39 Saul struck blind on the road to Damascus 9:8-9 Peter raises the disciple Tabitha from the dead 9:36-42 Ananias cures Saul of his blindness 9:17-18 Peter heals the Aeneas of palsy 9:33-35 Peter liberated from prison by an angel 12:5-11 Herod slain by an angel 12:23 Paul temporarily blinds the sorcerer Elymas 13:9-12 Miracles worked by Paul and Barnabas on mission journey 14:3 Paul cures the lame man of Lystra 14:7-9 Paul stoned, then miraculously healed at Lystra 14:19 Great signs and wonders done among the Gentiles 15:12 Paul drives a divining spirit out of a girl 16:16-18 Chains fall from Paul and Silas 16:25-30 Miracles worked through objects touched by Paul 19:11-12 Paul raises Eutychus from the dead 20:9-12 Paul shakes off a viper from his arm 28:3-6 Paul heals Publius father of dysentery 28:7-8 Paul heals all the sick brought to him on Malta 28:9 Persevere To Maturity 54

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56 Discussion Points 1. In what aspects of our lives are we expected to work out our salvation? 2. Consider Philippians 2:12-16 and Ephesians 4: How does a group of believers become built up together? 3. Verses 14 and 15 set out a number of qualities for Christians. How do these give us pointers towards the way in which the light is contrasted with the darkness? 4. Contrast Epaphroditus with Archippus (Colossians 4:17). What work have you received from the Lord to do? Persevere To Maturity 56

57 Those Dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. How well Paul knew his Scriptures! This term mutilators only occurs three times in Scripture. Here, and twice in the Old Testament. It harks back to the heathen mentioned in 1 Kings 18:28. In the New Testament, during the time of the Acts, Paul was severely opposed by those Jews who did not accept Jesus as the Christ. They harassed him, stoned him, and had him imprisoned. But this is not who Paul is referring to here nor was it the heathen spoken of in Kings. Those dogs were Jews known as Judaizers. These were Jews who had accepted Christ as their saviour, but insisted upon Gentiles being circumcised. Paul considered the circumcision that they required to be no more than an ordinance (rule, law, decree, regulation) like those of the heathen in 1 Kings. Note the use of the word dogs. The same word in neuter form can be found in Matthew 7:6 and Mark 7:27. This was a term used by Israel to describe the Gentiles. It was this term that Christ used to describe the Gentiles in the Jews own language in Matthew and Mark. This makes Paul s use of the word here all the more relevant as he is turning the word that his own countrymen used to describe Gentiles, back on them. Persevere To Maturity 57

58 Study 5: The danger of confidence in the flesh 3:1-6 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. The Philippians needed to be warned about certain Jews. But which ones? Who were those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh? 1 Kings 18:28 They were known as _. These were who had accepted as their saviour, but insisted upon being _. Matthew 7:6 Mark 7:27 Paul considered the that they required to be no more than an _ like those of the heathen in1 Kings. Persevere To Maturity 58

59 But Why? In Acts 15:11-29 the Jerusalem Council, in agreement with the Holy Spirit, had decided that gentiles did not need to be circumcised or to keep the law of Moses. Romans 4:9-10 tells us that even Abraham was saved by his faith and not by circumcision. In spite of the council then sending out letters via messenger to all appropriate groups/communities, the Christian Judaizers continued to assert their views about Gentiles requiring circumcision to be saved. Paul was plagued by these Judaizers right up to the end. They travelled throughout Galatia (hence the letter to the Galatians much of which comments on this very issue), they had gone to Antioch in Syria which resulted in the Jerusalem Council, and Acts 15:4-5 tells us they were in Jerusalem. There is also a section in Romans that clearly indicates that they were in Rome, and of course they were clearly in Phillipi. Paul goes to great lengths in each case to prevent the perversion of the Gospel of Christ which, if left unchallenged, would result in Jewish believers being lead back into bondage under the law, and Gentile believers coming under the bondage of the law all of which undermined the purpose of the sacrifice of Christ. Was Paul justified in describing the Judaizers as evildoers, dogs and mutilators of flesh? The Judaizers were undermining the gospel and attacking that which Paul said was of first importance in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. Notice that in Romans 1:16 and 2:9-10 Paul s language about such matters is not as strong? This was a time when Israel was still God s special people and had first place. But here in Philippians, after Israel had been set aside in Acts 28:25-28, this specialness was no longer the case. Paul was concerned that the pure Gospel of Christ His death for their sins and His subsequent resurrection was being corrupted. The true circumcision were those people of God who worshipped by the Spirit of God, who gloried in Christ Jesus and His all atoning sacrifice, and who put no confidence in human rules and rituals (see Colossians 2:11). And note the power of the point Paul makes in 3:5-6. He could claim to be 100% in accordance with the Jewish Law for it was he: who had been circumcised at the appropriate and stipulated time, who was a descendant of Abraham who was of the tribe of Benjamin who had been a Pharisee and a student of Mosaic Law who had kept the feasts who had offered the appropriate sacrifices and observed the Sabbaths it was HE who was faultless in all these things but Persevere To Maturity 59

60 Acts 15:11-29 Romans 4:9-10 The, in agreement with the _, had decided that did not need to be _ or to keep the _ of _. Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. STRONG WORDS to describe other believers! This language seem to be almost hypocritical in light of Paul s exhortations to the Philippians regarding grace and humility. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 Colossians 2:11 Do you think his description of them justified? Why? Persevere To Maturity 60

61 BUT What did all those human/religious qualifications matter?... Not one of them had saved him. It wasn t just garbage, it was excrement. Garbage or refuse would suggest something that was merely worthless. But the Greek skubalon means excrement which suggests not just worthlessness, but revulsion as well. What saved him was knowing the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour. None of the other things mattered a jot compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Jesus. What a lesson for believers today who may be pressurised into conforming to the traditions of churches and placing far too great an importance on them. What value do the traditions of many churches today have?... NONE! Paul knew that, through Christ, our righteous God gives to believers His perfect righteousness as a free gift to all who have faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for sin. It is important to remember, though, that our own holiness and righteousness can never equip us for eternal life. Paul knew this and knew that Christ provided the way a message that he stuck clearly too right throughout his apostleship. Persevere To Maturity 61

62 3:7-9 BUT whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. BUT what did all those human/religious qualifications matter? of them had _ him. Was it just garbage?... no it was _. What had saved him? What value do the traditions of many churches today (which are the traditions of men) have?! Is my salvation dependent on baptism or the Holy Sacrament, or confirmation, or speaking in tongues? Ephesians 1:13-14 NO MENTION OF CIRCUMCISION OR LAWS HERE. THE PATH TO SALVATION IS CLEAR! Persevere To Maturity 62

63 Begin by reading this translation of the subject text for this study from the New English Translation, then consider the Discussion Points 2 Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of those who mutilate the flesh! 3 For we are the circumcision, the ones who worship by the Spirit of God, exult in Christ Jesus, and do not rely on human credentials 4 - though mine too are significant. If someone thinks he has good reasons to put confidence in human credentials, I have more: 5 I was circumcised on the eighth day, from the people of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews. I lived according to the law as a Pharisee. 6 In my zeal for God I persecuted the church. According to the righteousness stipulated in the law I was blameless. 7 But these assets I have come to regard as liabilities because of Christ. 8 More than that, I now regard all things as liabilities compared to the far greater value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things - indeed, I regard them as dung! - that I may gain Christ, 9 and be found in him, not because I have my own righteousness derived from the law, but because I have the righteousness that comes by way of Christ's faithfulness - a righteousness from God that is in fact based on Christ's faithfulness. Persevere To Maturity 63

64 Discussion Points 1. In verse 3 Paul explains that the true meaning of circumcision goes beyond the physical act. What does verse 3 mean? Compare this with Colossians 2:11 where we have a similar thought. Express Paul s ideas in your own words. 2. What are the main dangers of legalism (what the Judaizers taught) to Christians today? How do you think it can impact on attitudes towards the Lord and our relationship with one another? How can we avoid such dangers practically? 3. Why is it that Paul thinks that knowing Christ is so superior to a legalistic form of righteousness? 4. In what sense has Paul lost all his earthly privileges and gained Christ? What might be the equivalent for us in the 21st century? Persevere To Maturity 64

65 Pressing on to win the prize. Paul wanted to know both Christ, and the power of his resurrection. He wanted this power in his life, but he wanted others to experience it also. This was the focus of his prayers in Ephesians 1:18-20 and 3: It is not Christ s personal sufferings to which Paul is referring here. He could not possibly share in Christ s personal sufferings because they were well and truly finished by the time Paul was converted. He was probably referring to the sufferings that Christ told him he must endure for Him. A better translation might therefore be and participation in those sufferings which Christ has designated I should endure. OR participation in His sufferings (the sufferings He referred to in Acts 9), In the Colossians reference, Paul was definitely referring to the sufferings that Christ spoke of in Acts 9 during Paul s conversion and he knew he still had more to go through. Later, here in Philippians, he still knew that there was more suffering to be endured for Christ and so, he persevered in the knowledge that Christ would be sharing in them with him, enabling him through His grace. Becoming like Him in His death. Paul also wanted to become like Christ in his death. But this could not mean being crucified like Christ. Paul was a Roman citizen and could not, therefore, be crucified. Roman citizens who were to be executed were permitted the far more dignified and quick death of beheading by the sword. Paul s intent was to continue to share the Gospel of Christ regardless of the circumstances. And if, the result of his imprisonment was a capital punishment judgment brought down by Caesar s court, then so be it. In this way, he could be like Christ in His death. Persevere To Maturity 65

66 Study 6: Pressing on to win the prize a) Pressing on to win the prize 3:10-11 I want to know Christ yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Paul wanted to know both Christ, and the _ of his resurrection. Ephesians 1: :16-19 Ephesians QUESTION: How could Paul participate in Christ s sufferings which were over and done with before Paul even arrived on the scene? Acts 9:15-16 Colossians 1:24 He was probably referring to the _ that told him he must endure for Him. A better translation might therefore be and participation in _ which Christ has I should endure. What did he mean by becoming like Him in his death? Persevere To Maturity 66

67 Resurrection from the dead 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 make it clear that Paul believed there was certainty of resurrection for Christians who had died. Common theme The common theme is that if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Why, then, was Paul trying to attain to the resurrection? But his desire somehow, to attain to the resurrection of the dead clearly doesn t correlate with the readings in Romans and Ephesians which make it clear that if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Rom 10:13). In our subject verse, Paul appears to be in doubt about his salvation. At the very least he appears to have no certainty about it. So what is going on? There are four common interpretations of this: 1. Paul is referring to a metaphorical resurrection i.e. he was not referring to a future physical resurrection of the dead (which is assured all believers), but to a present life identification with Christ in His resurrection. An amplified re-write of the text might read That if possible I may attain to the spiritual and moral resurrection that lifts me out from among the dead even while in the body. This is akin to what he was seeking and speaking of in Romans 6:4-10. In the absence of any other explanation this might be plausible. But, since it relies heavily on a largely unsubstantiated metaphor which must be added to the Scripture, and since it bears little or no correlation to the context of Philippians 3:1-10, it remains a tenuous explanation none-the-less. 2. Paul is referring to an earlier resurrection i.e. a resurrection which precedes the resurrection of the dead at Christ s second coming. John 5:24-29 would seem to render this view unworthy of further consideration since it makes it clear that there are just two resurrections: one when Christ returns, and the second after the 1,000 year millennium kingdom (which is echoed in Revelation 20). 3. Paul is referring to an earlier resurrection when Christ appears. Verses like Colossians 3:4 and Titus 2:13 appear on the surface to vaguely support this view, but an analysis of the Greek words involved (phaneroo, parousia and epiphania) make it clear that Christ s appearing and His coming occur at the same time (1 John 2:28-3:2). 4. Paul is referring to a better resurrection. (see next page). Persevere To Maturity 67

68 Resurrection from the dead???????? 1 Thessalonians 4: Corinthians 15:51-54 Paul clearly believed there was _ of for _ who had died. Romans 5:9, 10:9, 10:13, Ephesians 2:8 What is the common theme that runs throughout each of these passages? QUESTION: How, then, are we to equate somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead with these four passages which clearly indicate that Paul knew and believed that one has only to confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in their hearts that God raised Him from the dead and they would be saved? Persevere To Maturity 68

69 The Out-Resurrection Here in Philippians 3:10-11 Paul uses the word resurrection twice. That word resurrection mentioned in power of his resurrection in verse 10 is the Greek word anastasis. It occurs at least 40 times in the New Testament. (Matt 22:23, Mark 12:18, Luke 14:14, John 11:25, Acts 1:22, Romans 1:4, 1 Corinthians 15:12, etc). In each case, it relates to being raised from death. However, in our subject verse 11 somehow, to attain to the resurrection it is not the Greek word anastasis but the Greek word exanastasis and it occurs only ONCE in Scripture. Right here in Philippians. It is no accident that the only time Paul uses the word, is in reference to something other than the normal usage of the word resurrection. Virtually every modern day translation translates this word as resurrection. And yet, the fact that Paul would seem to be contradicting his previous certainty about the dead in Christ being raised (resurrected) suggests there is more to it. The answer lies in the prefix ex. We can get a sense of it from our English words like exodus and excerpt. Ex is a prefix meaning out of or from thus: the exodus is a story of the people of Israel being taken out from the midst of Egypt;, and excerpt is a passage taken or lifted out of a larger work. The word out is the important word here. So we literally have a resurrection taken out of the resurrection of the dead thus what is called the out resurrection. This idea of a better resurrection is not restricted to Philippians or Hebrews. It applied to Abraham who sought more than just the promised land and more than just resurrection to eternal live. He sought a better country (Hebrews 11:9-10,16) a reward that was available to all Jewish believers who were made perfect. Major Theme A major theme in Philippians is to become perfect or mature and thus achieve the prize (Philippians 3:10-12) which is similar to the better resurrection (Hebrews 11:35) provided for Jewish believers who have had their priorities right, became mature and lived selfless, sacrificial lives. This better resurrection is the prize spoken of in Philippians 3:14. So believers who believe that Jesus is Lord and believe that He was raised from the dead but do no go on to maturity, will be saved, and will be resurrected when the dead in Christ shall rise. But believers who believe that Jesus is Lord, and believe that He was raised from the dead and do go on to maturity, will be resurrected when the dead in Christ shall rise, but will be part of the group of mature believers who attain a better resurrection. Persevere To Maturity 69

70 What Resurrection? 3: I want to know Christ yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Resurrection in verse 10 is the Greek word _ Resurrection in verse 11 is the Greek word _ Ex is a prefix meaning _ or. So we literally have a resurrection taken _ the resurrection of the dead thus the _ resurrection. Philippians 3:10-12 Hebrews 11:35 A major theme in Philippians is to become _ or mature and thus achieve the _ which is a resurrection. This is the _ spoken of in Philippians 3:14. So believers who _ that Jesus is Lord and believe that He was raised from the dead but _ go on to, will be _, and will be _ when the dead in Christ shall rise. But believers who believe that Jesus is Lord, and believe that He was raised from the dead and go on to, will be _ when the dead in Christ shall rise, but will be part of the group of mature believers who attain a resurrection. Persevere To Maturity 70

71 Straining toward the prize Paul cannot be referring to the free gift of eternal life because he had already attained this. Here in Philippians 3:12 he makes it clear that he has NOT already attained whatever it is he is referring to. It is the difference between the gift of eternal life, and the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus. One is automatic upon accepting Christ, the other is a reward for faithful service i.e. walking worthy of the prize which Paul strained toward achieving. The GIFT is given by grace and is guaranteed. It includes forgiveness, resurrection, eternal life, and righteousness. The PRIZE is the result of service, or works. Persevere To Maturity 71

72 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Tick which one you think Paul is talking about here: The gift of eternal life and its associated benefits Maturity (perfection) and its associated benefits (better resurrection) Why? 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 The GIFT is given by _ and is. It includes _,, _, and. The PRIZE is the result of _, or works. So did Paul ever attain the prize?... 2 Timothy 4:7-8 Persevere To Maturity 72

73 All who are mature should take such a view. It is clear that some thought differently to Paul on this matter despite his authority in teaching it. Note, however, that God (through Paul) is making it equally clear that He will make the matter clear to those who think differently. Then, as now, there were clearly some who thought differently about rewards & striving for the prize but Paul, rather than argue the point, leaves the matter in God s hands preferring to focus on ensuring that the Philippians (and us) all lived put to the Christ-like life. The danger of lawlessness The whole letter of Philippians contains teaching of how Christians should, and should not, behave. Here in Philippians 3:18-19 we find the same. The many spoken of here are believers who set their minds on things of the earth. Perhaps it also includes those that sin more in order that grace may abound (Romans 6:1). It is also clear that the believers at Corinth (1 Corinthians 6:13) were not the only ones who had their focus on their bodies. The word destruction suggests extinction or complete annihilation. However, the word translated destruction is the Greek word apoleia which means ruin or loss meanings which far more closely represent the overall intention of this section. Had Paul been speaking of unbelievers, then destruction (extinction) would have been a reasonable fit. But the Greek, and the context, makes it clear that this is not what he intended. The end that Paul sees for worldly Christians whose mind is on earthly things is that they will suffer loss i.e. they will not attain to the prize. Even though they will have eternal life, they will lose their reward (1 Corinthians 3:10-15 note V15). Persevere To Maturity 73

74 3:15-17 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think _, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. In spite of some disagreeing with his teaching, what was Paul s main concern? That the _ would live up to the - life. What should be our main concern today?... to make sure others agree with our opinions about Christian doctrine, or to make sure that we live up to the Christ-like life? b) The danger of lawlessness 3:18-19 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is _, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. Romans 6:1 1 Corinthians 6:13 Colossians 3:1-4 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 QUESTION: Who are the many Destruction is better translated or. What is the result that awaits believers who walk not of the cross i.e. with their minds on earthly things? Persevere To Maturity 74

75 Our Citizenship is in Heaven What an amazing contrast. Unlike those believers whose focus is on worldly things, we are citizens of heaven, and should therefore act accordingly. We should set our minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:11). Paul tells the Philippians to eagerly await the second coming of Christ because, when He appears, they will appear with him in glory (Colossians 3:4) As believers with our minds set on things above, we should long for Christ s appearing, because on that day, He will transform our earthly bodies into heavenly ones glorious bodies like His own. That is the day when every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is LORD. But, just as the Ephesians were once excluded from citizenship of Israel and foreigners to the covenant of promise and were strangers and foreigners to the saints (Ephesians 2:12-19), setting our minds on things above will almost certainly result in our being alienated from the world. We may feel as though we are strangers or foreigners here on earth. Persevere To Maturity 75

76 3: But our _ is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Colossians 3:11 Ephesians 2:12-19 Colossians 3:4 2 Timothy 4:8 As believers with our minds on things, we should long for Christ s _, because on that day, He will _ our _ bodies into ones - bodies like His own. That is the day when every knee shall _, and every tongue _ that Jesus Christ is. What a day that shall be! Persevere To Maturity 76

77 Persevere To Maturity 77

78 Discussion Points 1. We see better resurrections mentioned in several other places in Scripture (Hebrews 11:35, Revelation 20:4-5). From the context of these passages, what are the criteria for participating in these resurrections? Does this fit with what Paul is saying in Philippians 3?... How? 2. What is our attitude to the possibility of reward for service? Should we think about it? What might be dangers associated with it? 3. Read Philippians 3:18. Are there Christians today whose lifestyle or behaviours make them enemies of the cross? 4. Read Philippians 3: This suggests that, as Christians who have our focus on things above, we will recognise that we belong in a heavenly realm rather than the one on earth. How does this affect the way we live now? Persevere To Maturity 78

79 An appeal for unity Therefore refers to what has just been written i.e. because our citizenship is in heaven, because we eagerly await our Saviour, because He is to control everything one day, and because He is to transform our lowly bodies into ones like His glorious body we should stand firm in the Lord by: 1. following the example of Paul 2. taking note of those who live according to the pattern given 3. not emulating those who live as enemies of the cross of Christ AND by putting on the whole armour of God as described in Ephesians: Persevere To Maturity 79

80 Study 7: Unity and Joy a) An appeal for unity 4:1-3 4:1 Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends! What is the therefore there for? Because Because Because Because we should _ in the Lord. But How? Philippians 3:17-18 Ephesians 6:10-17 By: Persevere To Maturity 80

81 Euodia and Syntyche were not standing firm and being of one mind. An appeal to Rejoice The Philippians were: a minority in society plagued by judaizers experiencing disunity None-the-less, Paul instructs them to rejoice. What a wonderful lesson for us in today s society in which is no longer a Christian one. We feel more and more marginalised and alone but regardless how difficult the circumstances are, Paul implores us to focus on, and rejoice in, the Lord not get hung up on the circumstances. Persevere To Maturity 81

82 4:2-3 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you (also), my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Philippians 2:1-4 Who was it that was not standing firm and being of one mind? and. These women had both stood by his side and helped him. It grieved him to see them disagreeing. b) An appeal to rejoice 4:4-5 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. The Philippians were: (1:28) (3:2-3) (3:15-17 & 4:2-3) None-the-less, Paul instructs them to _. What are some examples of how this can apply to us today? Persevere To Maturity 82

83 Anxiety: a threat to joy The Philippians were a minority group, they were constantly being approached by the Judaizers, and they experienced disagreement and division amongst themselves. But notice Paul s focus. Many Christians pray and petition God for things to be put right in their lives i.e. they pray to God about their problems, but the key ingredient that is missing is praying and petitioning God with thanksgiving. Presenting our prayers and petitions to God with thanksgiving helps keep our view of life in balance. If we come before our Lord with only the problems of our lives, it demonstrates a distorted view of our lives. But 1 Thessalonians 5:18 adds a context that many of us miss: we are to give thanks in everything and be not worried or anxious about it for God has his hand on it. His will be done whether that be what we want, or not. Remember Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 and his decision to rejoice in all his hardships. We are not suffering thorns in our sides for Christ, but we can learn a good deal from Paul s attitude. Persevere To Maturity 83

84 c) Threats against joy: anxiety 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.. What could the Philippians have had to be anxious about? Study the following statement closely In every situation pray and petition God and the peace of God will guard your heart and mind. Many of Christians do this and it doesn t work. Why not?... what s missing? 1 Thessalonians 5:18 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Presenting our prayers and petitions to God with helps keep our view of life in _. What are the _ in your life for which you can be constantly thankful? Persevere To Maturity 84

85 Wrong Thoughts: a threat to joy Sexual permissiveness, pornography, violence, swearing, crudity and vulgarity surround us on all sides and from all sources. This onslaught requires a balance of that which is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. IMPORTANT NOTE: Paul s emphasis here is on what is true, noble and pure not who is true, noble and pure. Even the most disgusting people are capable of selfish and selfless acts. Persevere To Maturity 85

86 d) Threats against joy: Wrong thoughts 4:8-9 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is, whatever is _, whatever is _, whatever is, whatever is, whatever is _ if anything is _ or think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Colossians 3:1-2 What are some of the things around us in our present society that fight for our attention, but don t fit with Paul s teaching here? What are the sorts of things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy in our present society that we can fix our minds on? NOTICE: Paul speaks of Not Who. Love the who, not the what. Persevere To Maturity 86

87 Discontentment: a threat to joy Paul now does exactly what he has been teaching he turns his mind to something that is right, noble, good and praiseworthy the Philippians concern for him and in it he could rejoice. The Philippians had been concerned for him for ages not knowing what had happened to him. Following his two year imprisonment in Caesarea he was sent by ship to Rome but got shipwrecked on Malta for three months. They eventually received news that Paul was under house arrest in Rome with all the associated costs that entailed. So they sent him a gift. He rejoiced in this, but made it clear that he didn t want more from them. Then he explained about the importance of contentment which is a learned way of being. Note: Learned is used twice in this section but they are not the same Greek word. The first usage is the Greek word manthano meaning to learn or understand often by observation. It is used 24 times in the New Testament and is translated learn or learned on each occasion except for Acts 23:27 where it is translated understood in the KJV. An excellent example can be found in Matthew 11:29 and what a wonderful picture it is. The Lord uses the picture of a yolk. A yolk was a device used to bind to work animals together often of different strengths but the yolk combined their effort in a way that made their effort sufficient. The second listing is the Greek word meuo and occurs ONLY here. It means to be taught or instructed. The King James Version does a much better job of translation here: I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry Note that I have learned implies an active participation on the part of the learner in making the learning happen. Something is observed and it is the learner who has created the learning through observation. The second usage instructed suggests something completely different i.e. the knowledge has come from another source and has enlightened the path of the learner. This section might therefore be better translated: I have been taught how to be full, and how to be hungry, how to live in plenty and how to live in want; and how to be content in each. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. We live in a world full of malcontents and sometimes we are one of them. Inner peace through contentment is something that is learned and it can be learned for all situations. Going through the tough times is as much of value to us as going through the good times. Remember that a diamond must endure extreme pressure for long years before it becomes a true diamond. If you experience hardship consider that God may be having you experience hardship for a reason - and be thankful for it. The key to contentment is depending on Christ who strengthens you, and remaining focused on Him REGARDLESS of the circumstances. Stay out from under the circumstances. Persevere To Maturity 87

88 e) Threats against joy: Discontentment 4:10-13 I greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have _ to be _ whatever the _. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have. What is Paul doing here that shows that he is practicing what he is preaching? 1 Timothy 6:6 The key to inner peace (contentment) is depending on Christ who _ you, and remaining _ on Him REGARDLESS of the _. Stay out from under the _! Persevere To Maturity 88

89 Thanks for the gifts 14-16: Troubles probably referred to the cost of paying for house arrest while in Rome (Acts 28:30). In those times, the prisoner was responsible for the rent of the house, food and perhaps even the wages of the soldier guarding him : The account Paul is referring to is the heavenly reward the prize that he speaks of striving for himself. Their gifts to him pleased God and represented one more step towards attaining their prize. We can be encouraged by this by recognising that our giving to our church and charities is pleasing to God and forms part of our walking worthy of the prize of the high calling : Many of us today have difficulties distinguishing between needs and wants. Our greatest need is to go beyond death and attain immortality. To do this, we need forgiveness which we already have through Christ s sacrifice for our sin, and His glorious resurrection. Persevere To Maturity 89

90 f) Thanks for the gifts 4:14-16 Yet it was good of you to share in my. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. What troubles is Paul referring to? 4:17-18 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. What account is he talking about and what is he saying about it? 4: And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. God has already met our greatest need. What is it? To go beyond _ and attain _. To do this, we need _ - which we already have through Christ s _ for our sin, and His glorious. Persevere To Maturity 90

91 21-21: Here we learn that there were Christians in Ceasar s household which probably included the palace guard. But this section also suggests that they lived in peace and were able to witness something which would change a few short years later under Caesar Nero. Paul opens this letter with grace and peace. He closes it with a phrase that he uses in a number of his letters. See: Galatians 6:18 2 Timothy 4:22 Philemon 1:25 This is not the saving grace they were already Christians and so already enjoyed being saved by grace. This was the enabling grace spoken of in 2 Corinthians 12:9 the grace that he has spoken of earlier that will allow them to face any circumstances and would be sufficient for their need. That enabling grace is still there for us. Let us keep our focus on the Lord and enjoy the strength that He provides that we might be contented in all things and enabled in all circumstances. Persevere To Maturity 91

92 4:21-23 Greet all God s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All God s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to _ household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen Here we learn that there were Christians in _ household which probably included the _. 2 Corinthians 12:9 What grace is he referring to? Persevere To Maturity 92

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94 Discussion Points 1. Notice that in 4:2-3 Paul is not interested in what the argument is about, just that they agree. How is it possible for us to have this kind of agreement among Christians and still permit freedom of opinion? 2. What is meant by having joy in the Lord? What is the difference between joy and happiness, and joy and pleasure? 3. What is our primary defence against anxiety? (see 4:6-7 and 1 Peter 5:7). Can you think of an experience where you were able to do this and it worked for you? What about times when it hasn t worked for you and what reasons it didn t? 4. How would you define the right attitude towards giving to the Lord s work? How does it apply in an affluent society like ours when Christians are not poor? Persevere To Maturity 94