Philippians 2:19-24 discusses the importance of celebrating the spiritual success of other Christ-followers, focusing on Jesus, and mentoring Christian leaders.

Philippians 2:19-24 reminds Christ-followers the importance of celebrating one another’s spiritual successes

V.19 that I too may be cheered by news of you.

Paul is uncertain of his future. There’s a chance he isn’t released from prison. And he acknowledges it when he says, “as I see how it will go with me.”

Still, he is encouraged by the prospect of hearing a good report about their welfare. Even though his own welfare may not look so bright. And that is a distinguishing characteristic of Christianity. It’s not all about you, but the Kingdom of God. Even in the midst of your own difficult circumstances, you can still celebrate the spiritual victories of others. And why mutual encouragement is a valued practice among Christ-followers.

Hebrews 12:1-2 offers a picture of this encouragement. Like a stadium of believers who have finished their race, now the spectators cheering on those still racing.

Where do you find encouragement in your own spiritual race? Have you ever considered that encouraging someone else might encourage you? Who might that someone be for you?

Read Proverbs 11:25. Record your thoughts on what it says to you.

Philippians 2:19-24 reminds Christ-followers to focus on Jesus

V.21 For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ

It’s a constant drum beat in scripture. Take your eyes of yourself and keep them on Jesus. So why is it so hard? Probably because our sin nature is inherently selfish. And we’re easily distracted by so many concerns in this life. Of course those concerns are real and we all must navigate them. But Jesus is Lord over them. He is the way, the truth, and the life. And the main point of reference for keeping life in focus.

Look at what happened to Peter when he took his eyes off Jesus.

REFLECT AND RECORD

Where have you failed to make Jesus first and let selfishness rule this week? Take a moment to identify it, confess it and seek God’s forgiveness.

Philippians 2:19-24 Demonstrates the importance of mentoring Christian leaders

V.22 But you know Timothy’s proven worth, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel.

The apostle Paul was a busy guy. He evangelized heathens, started churches with the Christian converts, equipped the church members with doctrinal teaching and provided pastoral guidance.

But he still took time to mentor young leaders for ministry. Because one pastor can’t do it all. So Paul mentored young, spiritual leaders. And Timothy was one of them. Paul took him on several missionary journeys, and trained him as a coworker. He praised him as a man tested and proven. And eventually assigned him leadership roles in the churches of Thessalonica, Corinth, Philippi and Ephesus.

The type of mentoring Paul demonstrated is life on life. The same way Jesus trained his disciples. The spiritually mature investing in the spiritually young by rubbing off through a Godly relationship.

Who is God presenting to you as someone to mentor?

Join me next week in a study of Philippians 2:25-30. Have you checked out my Christian detective novels Soul Pursuit, or Finding Grace yet? Hope you will. I’ve also published some non-fiction Christian books. Take a look here.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.

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