The Book of Philippians: Do NOT Be Anxious! (Chapter 2: Verses 1-4)

Hello Friends!

During this week’s gathering we’ll continue to work our way through the powerful book written by the “Apostle Paul” to the Philippians as we consider the perfect PERSON and wonderful WORKS willed of our loving “Lord Jesus Christ” as decreed throughout this excellent Epistle…“Do NOT Be Anxious!”

The Book of Philippians: Do NOT Be Anxious! (Chapter 2: Verses 1-4)

¹ If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, ² Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. ³ Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. ⁴ Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others – Philippians 2:1-4

OPENING POINTS TO PONDER: The concerted congregation of collected  “Christians” called from within the chided “city” limits in “Philippi” were greatly LOVED by the avid “Apostle Paul” and as he “wrote” to them. His thoughts and feelings had fared quite POSITIVE in nature and the practical “Philippians” had a very SPECIAL place in his “heart” just as “he” was held in theirs. There was a genuine inner love BOND born between this ardent “Apostle” and this choice “church” family found – BORN of the Spirit!

Chapter 2: The PATTERN for Christian living

Fellowship of the Spirit!

Here in these very PRACTICAL initial verses of chapter 2 is nestled a tremendous treatise for spiritual “unity” uniformly unified within the “church” body. Thus, the “Apostle Paul” begins this poignant “passage” carefully considering the tender HEARTS held within the “Philippian” fellowship: 

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies – Philippians 2:1

THEOLOGICAL THOUGHTS: Here “Paul” eagerly ENCOURAGES this precious flock of whom are Divinely drawn by the perfect POWERFUL conquest of “consolation in Christ” as a – “Paramuthion” in the Greek meaning to “offer a gentle cheer” – unto to one another. It takes tremendous effort to sufficiently – “Spoudaz” in the Greek meaning to “make every constant effort” – in aptly attaining this unique “unity” besetting “bond of peace” in which are essential to true “joy” and eager effectiveness for HIS great glory…

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all – Ephesians 4:1-6

This is a very powerful spiritual principle. WHY? Because it fervently focuses on overt OBEDIENCE unto a very personal relationship WITH our loving “Lord” Himself…

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them – John 17:20-26

When we “sin” it is NOT that we vividly VIOLATING a sordid system of religion or a torrid theme of theology or a credible creedal structure or an ornate organization of church hierarchy in kind… 

 I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest – Psalm 51:3-4

Rather, when we “sin” we are literally VIOLATING the intended INTIMACY of a real righteous relationship – WITH Jesus Christ!

Therefore, “Paul” contends that it is through their present PRACTICE of compassionate “comfort of love” and fervent “fellowship of the Spirit” that they are keenly KNIT tied totally together by the beautiful “bowels and mercies” and boldly “beseeched” in a holdened heart of great GRATITUDE towards “God” Almighty – Fellowship of the Spirit!

Be Likeminded!

At the very CENTER of this poignant “passage” lies the proclaimed phrase to "be likeminded" with an enormous EMPHASIS employed:

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind – Philippians 2:2

BIBLICAL BACKGROUND: Make your loving leaders themselves “joy” filled! That is a LEGITIMATE  plea of the “heart” harkened and “Paul's” aptly ardent APPEAL as such is very relational in nature…

And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words. Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he comes shortly, I will see you. Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you. Grace be with you all. Amen – Hebrews 13:17-25

The phlegmatic “Philippians” keenly knew and lavishly loved the apt “Apostle” and he keenly knew and lavishly loved all of “them” in kind. There was an incredible BOND between “one another” captured in full. Thus “Paul” tugs at their HEART strings in all these cases, as EVERYTHING is rightly relational in this “written” record. Keep the unique UNITY of the “church” in check. WHY? Because our righteous relationship with our loving “Lord Jesus Christ” confidently CALLS for it. Our righteous relationship with the “Spirit” soundly CALLS for it. And our relationship with the “Pastor” completely CALLS for it. Therefore, this is “Paul’s” personal – Pastoral PLEA!

To "Fulfil “ the justified “joy” welling up within the admiring “Apostle Paul’s” very own “bowels” of a personal PASTOR pursuing the “same love” as in boldly “being of one accord” and in “one mind” for the GLORY of our great “God” Almighty – Be LIKEMINDED!  

Lowliness of Mind!

Sordid “strife” and vulgar “vainglory” are the main causes of most derived DIVISIONS from within the “church” body. Conversely, a loving “lowliness of mind” and a caring consideration of the “other” people as “better” will produce HARMONIOUS relationships::

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves – Philippians 2:3

HISTORICAL HINTS: Engulfing EGOTISM is the vehement “vainglory” intent on advancing itself and is directly driven by personal DESIRE of which is ALWAYS a deeply destructive and disruptive directive. Therefore, we START with the slaying of this greedy GIANT of seething “strife” surmised…

Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? – 1 Corinthians 1:10-13

“Now” we all MUST indeed allow “nothing” to cause “contentions” and “divisions” in our midst by rightly ridding ourselves of the pretentious PRIDE that is rankly rooted within our “sinful” sordid fallen “fleshly” fetishes. WHY? Because they makes “us” want our OWN way through personal ambition with the foolish focus on such antagonistic AGENDAS anticipated. Rather, “let” each of us “esteem others” as boldly “better than” ourselves  – Lowliness of Mind!

Others Minded!

Finally, “Paul” prescribes that FOCUSING upon the “things” directly related unto “others” is the keen KEY element to this entire poignant passage as the MAIN motivation of consummated “Christian” concerted CONDUCT considered:

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others – Philippians 2:4

The idea of the Greek verb to "look" used here is to readily regard as your CHIEF aim and sole GOAL pursued. It is quite apparent that “we” loosely live TODAY in a society where most people consistently care ONLY about their “own” primary personal interests. And although “we” do indeed NEED to be rightly responsible for the many matters of our “own” lives manifest, “we” must NOT merely be concerned with these “things” alone. Therefore, “Paul” purposely pleads with the precious “Philippians” prelates to NOT simply “look” in ready regards to their “own” personal PURPOSE in life, “but” rather “each” and “every man” ought to “also” completely consider the nigh NEEDS expressed by “others” as well – OTHERS Minded!

In closing:

There is a very obvious LACK of deep doctrinal exhortation in this excellent “epistle” exposition. WHY? Because there was apparently NO deviation from distinct DOCTRINE detected by the “Apostle Paul” directly. The “Philippians” had NOT gone astray in terms of their THEOLOGY themed. Thus, they did NOT need to be corrected as such. There was no IMMORALITY lurking within their “fellowship” of which is confronted in kind. This is truly a quality group of “God’s” people deeply devoted, constantly consistent and dedicated to doctrine dictates – MATURE Mandate!

However, in spite of ALL this surely sound expression there was lurking low within that choice “church” a very deceptively DEADLY satanic snake sneaking about with its poisonous venom to spread. WHAT? It was the slithering serpent of dark DISUNITY, deep DISCORD and dire DISSENT of which has poisoned many chided “churches” called throughout the beautiful “body of Christ” itself until THIS very day. And in all of “Paul's” expressions of “joy” and positively affirming characterizations of the “Philippian” fellowship, there remain these looming shadows of grave CONCREN to him. Therefore, he firmly frames this loving “letter” of lamentation – Letter of LOVE!

We are not guaranteed tomorrow – tomorrow may be too late! If you haven't yet made that most important decision of your life, won't you make Jesus Christ your personal Lord and Savior today - before it's too late? Today is the day of Salvation!

If you have been blessed by this message or have a specific question, prayer request or testimony, please send me a note to: encouragingconcepts@live.com

I love hearing from you. Keep reading Encouraging Concepts!

Blessings!
Shane K. Morin <><

Encouraging Concepts

Truth for Today

"Living Life From a Biblical Worldview"

 

The Book of Philippians: Do NOT Be Anxious! (Chapter 1: Verses 22-30)

 Hello Friends!

During this week’s gathering we’ll continue to work our way through the powerful book written by the “Apostle Paul” to the Philippians as we consider the perfect PERSON and wonderful WORKS willed of our loving “Lord Jesus Christ” as decreed throughout this excellent Epistle…“Do NOT Be Anxious!”

The Book of Philippians: Do NOT Be Anxious! (Chapter 1: Verses 22-30)

²² But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. ²³ For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: ²⁴ Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. ²⁵ And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; ²⁶ That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. ²⁷ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; ²⁸ And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. ²⁹ For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; ³⁰ Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me – Philippians 1:22-30

OPENING POINTS TO PONDER: It is quite DOUBTFUL whether any serious “servant” of the Most High “God” had experienced more sorrow than the “Apostle Paul” himself. In fact, as we “study” the New Testament narrative it becomes quite CLEAR that absolutely “all things” surely seem to go so very BADLY for him. In the book of Acts he is Sovereignly “saved” by our loving “Lord Jesus Christ” on the rocky “road” running unto “Damascus“ directly…

But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake – Acts 9:15-16

He then thoughtfully turns to the cautious “church” set within the jurisdiction of “Jerusalem” and they too rankly REJECT him. In the very chapter where he is soundly “saved by Grace” he is rankly REJECTED by the unsaved and saved alike. And when he “sets” out for his very FIRST missionary “journey” to personally “preach” the great “gospel” message, MORE jealous “Jews” publicly contend to contradict him and adversely accuse him of blatant BLASPHEMY bemoaned. They sinisterly “stir up” many manic “mobs” of whom are sordidly dead set AGAINST him as they sorely “stone” him and leave him for DEAD laying in the dirt…

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren... And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead – Acts 14:2 & 19

However, even BEFORE we are out of this challenging chapter, the jaundice “Jews” are indeed already plotting to collectively KILL him and as a rank result, “Paul” has to eagerly escape with his LIFE by being volleyed over a waning “wall” in a “basket” brigade…

 In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands – 2 Corinthians 11:32-33

That WAS indeed the way it was for the luminous “life” of the great “Apostle Paul” and for HIM that was – Only the BEGINNING...

Faith of the Gospel!

To begin with, “Paul” rightly recognizes that to personally BE with the chosen “Christ” is indeed “far better” for himself. However, for the “Philippians’” sake it is aptly advantageous for each of “them” if he courageously CONTINUES on living in his bodily “flesh” through the fine “fruit” fomented from his SPIRITUAL lustrous “labor” – to willingly agonize in the Greek language “ergon“ – through a caring “Christian” kindred LOVE lavished…

But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labor: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better – Philippians 1:22-23

THEOLOGICAL THOUGHTS: “But” here the “Apostle Paul” is at the pivotal point where he “knows” he is coming close to the eventual END of his “life” journey. He realizes that MOST of his meaningful “ministry” work is in the past tense. The lavishing “love of Christ” is far GREATER than it has ever been for him and the LONGING for and dear “desire to depart” for his eternal “home” within “heaven” is much more intense than ever. And “yet” he also feels a hard-pressed solemn “strait betwixt” – to be pressured from both sides in the Greek language “synechomai” – these “two” overt options as well as for the “church” a tremendous – RESPONSIBILITY!

Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labor, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him – 2 Corinthians 5:6-9 

Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me – Philippians 2:30 

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me – Galatians 2:20 

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God – 1 Peter 4:1-2

For the “Christian” worker “living” life welled within this wicked “world” system, being ALIVE is soundly synonymous with focused “fruitful labor” unto our loving “Lord Jesus Christ” in full. WHY? Because HE is the central CENTER and contending CIRCUMFERENCE of “our” very existence eked out “whether we wake or sleep” in its entirety…

Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him – 1 Thessalonians 5:10

This is the very REASON that the attentive “Apostle Paul” excellently exhorts that absolutely NOTHING else exclusively matters at all to HIM but that “Christ” be contended. Therefore, for each of “us” to be avidly ALIVE is to be eagerly engaged in fulfilling FRUIT-FILLED loving “labor” on behalf of “our” sweet Savior “Jesus Christ” and His purposed – PRECIOUS People!

JOY of Faith!

Now “we” will further find this magnificent man faithfully FORGOING his own personal “desire” to decidedly “depart” for the “more needful” mindset to aptly “abide” for the “furtherance” of the “joy of faith” for the “Philippian” folks. They were rightly “rejoicing” in the “abundant” heaven-sent righteousness found within their FELLOWSHIP fold:

Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith. That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again  – Philippians 1:24-26

BIBLICAL BACKGROUND: The “Philippian” people of “God” needed “Paul” in concerningly “coming” to them again. WHY? Because they had a few problems to address. Although there are NOT many issues identified specifically in this loving “letter” lauded, there were indeed a FEW obvious points of concern considered. In Chapter 2 they needed to learn HUMILITY of heart. In Chapter 3 they needed to BEWARE of evil. And in Chapter 4 there were “women” that needed to learn to live in HARMONY one with another. These bold “brethren” had to learn to “rejoice” rightly and to be confidently “content” within whatever solemn “state” they found themselves. They had something to LEARN if they were going to have an intentional IMPACT on their waning “world” by powerfully “preaching” to the people concerning “Jesus Christ” abroad. They needed sound strengthening, intentional instruction and loving leadership in kind. And they were ONE of the many called-out “churches” of whom “Paul” diligently discerned that nightly – NEEDED Him!

STAND Fast!

Now there will be a sure sense in this loving “letter” whereas the autobiographical tone of conversation DISSIPATES as the appointed “Apostle Paul” turns his gaze AWAY from considering himself and the absolute “joy” found within meaningful “ministry” to a proclaimed PLEADING with the fine “Philippians” themselves. And at this pivotal point in his ardent address, “Paul” is now chiefly CONCERNED about their “affairs” as such:

Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel – Philippians 1:27

The wonderful word "only" used here is very IMPORTANT and is in the crucial emphatic position with the Greek sentence structure and is in the primary tense as it is in the English grammar. And it signifies an essential issue to the “Christian” life experience. Thus, “Paul” has readily reduced his exhortation openly to “only” this ONE thing…

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints – Ephesians 6:10-18

Regardless of his presence provided, “Paul” uniquely URGES the progressing “Philippians” to surely “stand fast in one spirit” of unity and harmony through “one mind” surely “striving together” for the fantastic “faith of the gospel” granted as they continue LIVING in a manner that is honoring unto “Jesus Christ” Himself. And he deeply “desires” for them to look within their very OWN harkened “hearts” and valiantly verify that their constant “conversation” is indeed showing “sound” spiritual INTEGRITY intended. And “Paul” would no doubt “desire” that each of “us” alive TODAY to soundly “stand fast” in diligently doing the very – SAME Thing!

Salvation of GOD!

Then “Paul” also URGES the beholden “brethren” themselves to NOT be tellingly “terrified” by their avowed “adversaries” at hand:

And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God – Philippians 1:28

"And“ the obvious “evident token” given unto these evil ENEMIES of the “gospel” granted will be to their proclaimed “perdition” promised. WHY? Because their hellish HOSTILITY held toward “you” is a sure SIGN that they will utterly be DESTROYED eternally “but” it is also a Sovereign SIGN that “you” are going to be SAVED in the end. In other words, if “these” folks are ATTAKING as such, this powerfully proves whose side “they” are ON and whose side “you” are ON as well! Indeed a sure SIGN of solemn “salvation” and of dire “destruction” are determined decisively. All of which is gladly given in apt accordance to the willful WORK of our glorious “God” in heaven…

For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? – 2 Corinthians 2:15-16

Therefore, “Paul” assures the professing “Philippian” brethren to be BOLD in their practical “preaching” of the glorious “gospel” and that this heretical hostility is a sure SIGN of predicated “perdition” upon their adamant “adversaries” and of sublime “salvation” for themselves – Given BY God!

SUFFER for His Sake!

Finally, to surely “suffer” is the bold “believers” besetting badge of highest HONOR held of which is “given” gladly on “behalf of Christ” as for “His sake” alone:

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake. Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me – Philippians 1:29-30

To indeed “suffer” as such is a GIFT of His grand “grace” given. Our great “God” has uniquely chosen each of “us” not nigh ONLY for solemn “salvation” of the soul satisfied. And HE has also purposely chosen each of “us” for certain “suffering” of many various sorts through the “flesh” in kind – SUFFERING Servants!

HISTORICAL HINTS: The fact that “Paul” was eventually released from his “prison” sentence soon AFTER this looming “letter” was penned, his apt ASSURANCE as such was indeed justified in kind. He was loosed from his “bonds” in the approximate year 63 A.D. sometime shortly BEFORE the belligerent burning of the Roman region set ablaze in 64 A.D. However, he was “imprisoned” intently yet AGAIN but this time was brazenly beheaded between the years – 65 A.D. - 67 A.D.

Thus, our great “God” had gloriously given “Paul” a final few more years of FRUITFUL magnificent “ministry” mandates. This amazing “Apostle” had longingly LIVED his directed days for “Jesus Christ” throughout these MANY years of constant “conflict” as he wholly – HELPED the Church!

REAL REFLECTIONS: When “we” each get to know our ETERNAL Lord and God “Jesus Christ” in ever INCREASING measure…

Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus – Philippians 4:6-7

The magnificent “message” penned to the Philippians makes so much “sanctifying” satisfied sense – Praise our LOVING Lord! 

We are not guaranteed tomorrow – tomorrow may be too late! If you haven't yet made that most important decision of your life, won't you make Jesus Christ your personal Lord and Savior today - before it's too late? Today is the day of Salvation!

If you have been blessed by this message or have a specific question, prayer request or testimony, please send me a note to: encouragingconcepts@live.com

I love hearing from you. Keep reading Encouraging Concepts!

Blessings!
Shane K. Morin <><

Encouraging Concepts

Truth for Today

"Living Life From a Biblical Worldview"