by Chip Tudor | Oct 4, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 2:25-30 describes the importance of Christian community along with the risk and the reward of ministry.
Philippians 2:25-30 describes the importance of Christian community
V.25 I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus
REFLECT AND RECORD
Consider a difficult time in your life when someone came alongside of you. Or perhaps, you came alongside of another. How was comfort provided? What are helpful things to keep in mind in those situations?
Christian community is powerful. It provides mutual encouragement, accountability, and support. A safety net when Christ-followers encounter difficult circumstances. To relieve hardship and ease suffering. Although sometimes there is nothing you can actually do. Just be there. Which is often more helpful than you think. Because it’s not about saying comforting words. Quoting the right scripture passage. Or even talking at all. Your concerned presence says it all.
Epaphroditus was that presence for Paul. He was sent as the official representative for the Philippian church. And he served Paul well. Because Paul described him in glowing terms.
- brother
- fellow worker
- fellow soldier
- your messenger
- minister to my need
That’s a pretty impressive list for someone coming to the aid of a fellow Christ-follower. Is there someone in your life that represents that to you? Or you to someone else?
Philippians 2:25-30 describes the risk of ministry
V.27 Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me…
Unfortunately, Epaphroditus became seriously ill while serving Paul. And it stressed them both out. Epaphroditus worried that his fellow church members thought he was flaking out on his ministry assignment and Paul worried Epaphroditus would die on his watch. Paul was also concerned about the reception Epaphroditus would get when he returned home.
It’s a reminder that ministry offers no guarantees. God does not automatically put a hedge of protection around you because you serve in His name. Even though we often think he is supposed to. Instead Jesus says to take up a cross and follow him. Wow! That’s an effective recruitment slogan. Serve the kingdom of God. See the world. Oh yeah, and by the way, it might cost you.
Philippians 2:25-30 describes the reward of ministry
V.29-30 So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men, for he nearly died for the work of Christ
The Greek word for “honor” is ĕntimŏs, which means valued, more honorable, precious, in reputation. In other words, Paul tells the Philippian church to give Epaphroditus a hero’s welcome when he returns home.
And so we’re presented with a puzzling paradox. A confusing conflict of competing values. How giving is better than receiving? Serving better than being served? The hardship of ministry more rewarding than the pleasure of comfort?
Obviously, the reward is intangible, not material. A spiritual dividend that floods the heart with overflowing joy. And a fulfilling sense of contentment. Unmoved by hazards. Even the possibility of death.
Is this what you signed up for? And are you all in?
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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.
by Chip Tudor | Sep 27, 2022 | Blog
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.
by Chip Tudor | Sep 13, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 2:5-11 supports the Bible’s Gospel message. God came to earth as a human to accomplish what we could not do for ourselves. This passage discusses the deity of Jesus Christ, his humanity, and his final exaltation.
Philippians 2:5-11 presents the deity of Jesus Christ
REFLECT AND RECORD
In what ways does power and privilege affect a person’s attitude? Why do you think it is corrupting? What is the anti-dote?
2:6 though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped
The Greek word for form used in V.6 is Morphe. It means outward manifestation and relates to the essence that doesn’t change. In other words, as a human, Jesus was the same in essence as God the father.
But Jesus didn’t let his divinity corrupt his attitude or use it to further himself.
The Greek word for grasped is harpagmos, which means to seize, snatch violently and hold fast. It presents the idea of holding a privilege that you take advantage of in the future.
Paul’s exact meaning is unclear. Is he saying that Jesus Christ surrendered his equality with God by becoming a man or that he could have asserted his divine essence as a man, but chose not to?
It is clear however, that Jesus carried out his mission according to God’s will. And it’s a game changer for those who respond to him.
Philippians 2:5-11 presents the humanity of Jesus Christ
2:7-8 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
In V.8, the word for human form is schema. It refers to the outward appearance that changes and may be temporary. In other words, Jesus physically grew and matured like every other human. It’s a radical idea. And what separates Christianity from all other religions. That God, the creator, came to earth as a human.
The Greek word for taking is labon and implies an addition, not an exchange. In other words, Jesus didn’t stop being God to become human. He added humanity to his divine essence. He was fully man and fully God.
So from what did Jesus empty himself? This question has sparked an extensive theological discussion around what is called the kenosis’ theory. And is beyond the scope of this article. But I like what a number of scholars suggest. That Jesus chose not to exercise the full extent of his divine privilege.
And he humbled himself at 3 levels:
- In taking on a human form
- In sacrificing himself for our sin
- In accepting the most horrible, humiliating death of the day–crucifixion
Philippians 2:5-11 presents the final exaltation of Jesus Christ
You have a will. A choice. And you’re free to believe in, disbelieve and to accept or reject Jesus Christ.
V.9 Therefore God has highly exalted him…
The Greek word for exalted is hyperypsóō and means to raise to the highest position. After Jesus humbled himself to redeem mankind, God raised him up. It’s a message passed on to Christ-followers as well. That God encourages and rewards humility.
V. 10-11so that at the name of Jesus every knee 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.
But Paul says a time is coming when everyone acknowledges him. Not because you are forced to. But because you will be overwhelmed in the presence of his glory.
Join me next week in a study of Philippians 2:12-18. 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.
by Chip Tudor | Sep 6, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the topic of church unity. Paul identifies the motivations and qualities that promote unity along with the importance of an outward focus.
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the motivations that promote church unity
Church is not simply a building. Or a weekly worship service for your religious fix. It is a group of Christ-followers who meet regularly and relationally. Who do life together in the name of Jesus Christ. But they are all still sinners. So problems within a church are inevitable. And unity is an important, but difficult challenge.
REFLECT AND RECORD
What are some church conflicts you’ve experienced? Describe them, their cause and the result? What motivations fueled or diffused them?
We face different challenges in life. And often, our success or failure depends on the level of motivation. How bad do you want it? In this passage Paul begins with a discussion on motivations.
And he frames it with an “if” and “then.”
V.1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy
In other words, IF you have these motivations. Let’s break them down.
Encouragement in Christ—Encouragement in Greek is paraklēsis, which means to exhort. Literally, a calling to one’s side, or to one’s aid. Christ-followers should encourage and come alongside one another both physically and in their faith journey.
Comfort from love—The Greek for comfort is paramythion, which also means consolation. It infers a sense of constraint and speaking to other Christ-followers in a friendly manner. As Paul advises in Ephesians 4:15, it’s not just what you say, but your tone of voice in how you say it.
Participation in the spirit—Participation is the Greek word koinōnia discussed in the study on 1:26-30. It is the unique sense of community fostered by the presence of the Holy Spirit when Christ followers gather. He is the spiritual super glue that holds the church together.
Affection and sympathy—Affection is the Greek word splanchnon which also means compassion. In other words, genuine caring for others. As Jesus demonstrated compassion and caring, we are to follow his example. Especially to our brothers and sisters in Christ at church..
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the qualities that promote church unity
V. 2 complete my joy by… being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Okay, Paul doesn’t actually say “then” but it’s implied. Notice also, he doesn’t demand compliance from a position of apostolic authority or guilt them into submission. But persuasively suggests it would really make him happy to see them demonstrate these qualities. It would make the joy he expressed for them in chapter 1:3 complete.
Same mind and one mind–Both use the same Greek word phronéō, which means to think or plan. Share the same opinion. A church must move together in how it thinks. And this is directed by God’s word and the leading of his Spirit. So it’s important for Christ-followers to individually and regularly pray and study the Bible. There will always be differences in interpretations, but there can be agreement on fundamental truth and important doctrines within a body of believers.
having the same love–The agape love that motivates Christ-followers should also be expressed among them. It includes support, encouragement, and accountability. And a willingness to seek and extend forgiveness.
being in full accord –The Greek word for accord is sumpsuchŏs and means similar in sentiment and like-minded. In other words, a synonym for phronéō.
Philippians 2:1-4 discusses the outward focus important to unity
REFLECT AND RECORD
What comes to mind when you consider people that demonstrate humility? How is it expressed or lacking in your own life?
V.3-4 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Jesus warned about humility posers. People who showcased virtuous acts to demonstrate moral goodness. And he told stories that exposed the hearts behind certain acts of charitable giving and pious prayers.
And now, Paul identifies a simple principle of Biblical humility. Take your eyes off yourself and focus on others. In other words, it has very little to do with how you present yourself. But where you focus your attention. It’s not thinking less of yourself, but thinking about yourself less.
Join me next week in a study of Philippians 2:5-11. Have you checked out 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.
by Chip Tudor | Aug 30, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 1:26-30 encourages worthy discipleship, calls for unity, courage against the culture, and warns about the cost of discipleship.
Philippians 1:26-30 calls Christ-followers to be worthy of the Gospel
V.27 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ…
We sometimes act like we’re doing Jesus a favor by following him. But Paul suggests the opposite. Jesus did us the favor. And our lives should demonstrate appreciation.
The Greek word for worthy is axiōs, which means appropriately and after a godly sort.
In other words, does your Christian walk reflect a Godly lifestyle that is appropriate for a Christ-follower? Is your Christian conduct worthy of the sacrifice Jesus made for you?
REFLECT AND RECORD
What does it mean to live a Godly lifestyle? How should that lifestyle present itself at home, work, church and in social settings? How would you rate your walk as worthy of the gospel of Christ?
Philippians 1:26-30 calls for unity among Christ-followers
V. 27 that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents.
Let’s break it down.
Standing firm…
The winds of social change are blowing. But God’s word remains the same. And Paul urges us to stand firm with unwavering moral convictions. While our culture flees from them at increasing speed. We’re pulled to go with the flow. Join the crowd. Because we want to belong. However, standing firm will leave you behind a morally moving culture. And you will have to decide. Go or stay?
One spirit…
Spirit is the Greek word pneúma that means wind, breath, life, and Spirit. It refers specifically to the third person of the Trinity–the Holy Spirit–who indwells every Christ-follower. He guides, encourages, convicts of sin, illuminates scripture and creates a spiritual community among Christ-followers described by the Greek word, Koinonia. The spiritual bond that unifies the church.
One mind…
The Greek word for mind is psychḗ, which means life and soul. The being part of human being. In Philippians Chapter 2, Paul uses a different Greek word for mind that we’ll look at next week. For now, let’s not over think his meaning here. Maybe he’s simply calling for oneness as living souls.
Striving side by side…
The Greek word synathléō promotes the idea of striving, suffering, and working together.
In other words, Christ-followers are individually disciples and corporately the body of Christ. It’s a relationship compared to marriage. And sticks together in good and bad times.
Philippians 1:26-30 calls for courage against the culture
V. 28 not frightened in anything by your opponents.
As Paul said in V. 20, he didn’t want to be ashamed, but full of courage. And now he encourages the Philippians not to fear their opponents either.
Easier said than done, right?
Especially in a morally intimidating culture. One that threatens cancellation to gain support for morals that oppose Biblical teaching. So how should we respond? Compromise on convictions? Hold fast, but remain quiet?
Presently, Godliness and Biblical truth are increasingly labeled intolerant. The moral divide between Christianity and culture grows wider. And simultaneously, puts the two on a head-on collision course.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Share a memory on how you navigated social pressure growing up? How does rejection come into play? What is your greatest concern as a Christ-follower in an anti-Christian culture?
V. 28 This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation
When you live a Godly life, it exposes the ungodliness around you. Because you’re a living testimony that glorifies God. And a witness that influences others by your positive example.
“‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” (Acts 13:47)
However, others may resist and mock your faith. Exclude you from social circles. And try to take you down. Because righteous living illuminates sin. This where God is your refuge.
You, O Lord, will keep them; you will guard us from this generation forever. On every side the wicked prowl, as vileness is exalted among the children of man. (Psalm 12:7-8)
Philippians 1:26-30 warns Christ-followers about persecution
V. 29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake
Jesus Christ ultimately suffered for our sake. And Paul says those who follow him may suffer too. Jesus said the same thing.
And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. (Luke 9:23)
Christ-followers in other countries already suffer persecution. Although it’s still a religious freedom in America, Christianity has certainly lost favor in the mainstream culture. And is under increasing attack. How should we respond?
REFLECT AND RECORD
Can you remember a time someone mocked you for your Christian faith? How did you respond? How should we relate to others as sinners saved by grace, but disciples of Christ who strive to live righteously?
Join me next week in a look at Philippians 2:1-4. Also, check out my Christian detective novel Soul Pursuit, and Finding Grace, the next one in the series.
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.
