by Chip Tudor | Aug 23, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 1:19-25 expresses Paul’s sense of celebration, identifies his source of strength, and his reason for confidence.
Philippians 1:19-25 surpasses a positive attitude to one of celebration
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy. (ESV, Psalm 5:11)
Throughout the Bible, Christ-followers are encouraged to rejoice and express joy. Why? Because a relationship with Jesus Christ releases you from the bondage of sin and grants you eternal life with him. And that should cause an ongoing celebration.
V. 19 I will rejoice…
So Paul ends v.18 and begins v.19 by repeating the same word…rejoice. Just in case you missed it the first time. Rejoice is the Greek word chairo and the Greek word chara is translated joy.
James, the half brother of Jesus, goes more extreme with the idea. He instructs Christ-followers to express joy even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (ESV, James 1:2)
REFLECT AND RECORD
Consider a difficult circumstance you’ve experienced. How would you rate your level of joy as you navigated it? What factors contributed to how it went? What might you have done differently?
Philippians 1:19-25 identifies Paul’s source of strength
V. 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance
Christianity doesn’t pretend you can summon a power from within. Instead, it recognizes that we are weak. Vulnerable. And gain our strength and support from a community of believers and the power of God.
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
Paul readily and unashamedly identifies his source of strength: the prayers of the Philippian church and the presence of the Holy Spirit. We don’t understand how prayer works. But know that it does. And Paul regularly asked for prayer support in his ministry. Jesus too, regularly prayed and encouraged the same from his followers. And he told several parables about the impact prayer has in the life of believers.
Furthermore, Christ-followers lean on the Holy Spirit for help. In fact the Holy Spirit is often identified by the Greek word paráklētos, which means advocate and helper.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Take a moment to reflect on and describe times when you sensed the prayer of others. What about when you felt weak and the power of the Holy Spirit sustained you. What did you learn about Christian community and the power of God from those times?
Philippians 1:19-25 explains the reason for Paul’s confidence
V. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Paul is unsure of his future. The Greek word for deliverance in V.19 is soteria, which means salvation. Does Paul mean salvation from prison and physical freedom or spiritual salvation if he’s martyred?
It’s not clear. But he’s good either way.
V. 22 If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me…
If he lives, Paul will faithfully serve God. He doesn’t plan to retire, kick back, and enjoy the good life. That comes in heaven.
V. 25 I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith,
Rather, Paul feels responsible as a spiritual mentor to the Philippian church. He wants to support and encourage them on a path of discipleship that is characterized by joy. And demonstrate a Christian life that serves as an example. One still worth following today.
In what ways do you encourage others in the Christian faith? Would you describe your witness as someone who cowers or stands courageously for Christ? How well do you exemplify what discipleship looks like?
Join me next week in a look at Philippians 1:26-30. 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.
by Chip Tudor | Aug 16, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 1:12-18 conveys Paul’s passion in sharing the gospel. And how the message is delivered despite his imprisonment and the rivalry of other preachers.
In Philippians 1:12-18 Paul presents a positive attitude despite his circumstances
Difficult circumstances challenge your attitude. And this impacts how well you navigate those circumstances. Because they cause self-pity. Which makes your attitude worse. And piles on more self-pity that spirals down the drain of depression.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Think about a difficult circumstance you’ve experienced. What impact did your attitude have on how well you navigated it? How did it resolve? What part did your Christian faith play in getting you through it?
V. 12 What has happened to me has really served to advance the Gospel
The Greek word for advance is prokopēn and means advancement in spite of barriers that hinder progress.
What barriers and hinderance does Paul mean? Well, he’s in prison. And sitting in a jail cell instead of out preaching is a hindrance and barrier to evangelistic progress. As well as an attitude killer that could easily plunge him into a downward spiral. But he refused to take that path and instead, made the most of his circumstances.
The Praetorium refers to the residence of the Roman governor and the Praetorian guard was a branch within the Roman military assigned to the security of the imperial family. Paul is under their supervision while he waits for his trial.
So he shares the gospel with the soldiers guarding him. And the captivity you’d expect to halt spreading the gospel becomes the expression that carries it forward.
Chains for Christ…
Furthermore, it grows clear his only offense is a passion for sharing the gospel message. You can almost imagine the soldiers exchanging prisoner updates during their shift change. “Good luck with the crazy preacher and his Jesus resurrection story.”
Do you see the irony? The amazing paradox of God’s truth? That a prisoner shares with his captors how to experience true freedom?
Philippians 1:12-18 demonstrates how Paul’s attitude positively influenced others
Hang around someone down in the dumps and they can drag you down too. But those with a positive outlook will lift you up. Provide encouragement in your difficulties. And that’s the approach Paul took.
V. 14 Are more bold to speak the word without fear
Paul’s determination to share the gospel and his enlistment of the Praetorium guard to serve in his salvation army was inspiring. It influenced other Christ-followers to share their faith as well.
And you have a sphere of influence too. Your family…friends…co-workers. Are all watching you. Taking some of your cues. Following your behaviors. Receiving your messages. What kind are you sending?
Of course, Paul’s boldness for Jesus Christ landed him in prison. Although we don’t face those dire consequences, our culture is growing increasingly hostile to Christ-followers. To God’s truth. And pushing us to make a public choice.
Will I stand up for Christ or bow before the culture?
Philippians 1:12-18 tells us about rivals with selfish motives.
V. 15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will.
The Greek word for selfish ambition is eritheía which means self-seeking. It tells us not everyone sharing their faith did so with the same motives as Paul. It was true then and now.
Selfishness and rivalry are everywhere. Even In ministry. Between churches. Among church people.
REFLECT AND RECORD
What are some selfish ambitions you see within the church. How are rivalries played out? Describe your thoughts on what motivates them.
But aren’t we all on the same team? Yes. But we’re all still sinners. With different views on scripture, sense of God’s calling, and motives. Which aren’t always pure. Because–come on, be honest–we all struggle with selfish ambition.
And it taints our motives. Even in how and why we serve.
Is there motive you have that is not so pure right now? If so, confess it to God and seek his forgiveness.
Philippians 1:12-18 provides the antidote to self-seeking ministry and rivalry.
V. 18 whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.
Paul affirmed the believers who shared their faith with pure motives and called out those with impure motives. But he didn’t judge, which gives us an example to follow. Instead, we should examine our own motives, ask God to purify our hearts, and commit ourselves to His service.
Keep in mind this wasn’t the first time people used religion for self-gain. Jesus’ response to temple money changers demonstrates God’s view towards religious opportunists.
And even though Paul recognizes the religious opportunists were personally attacking him, he didn’t let it drag him down into a ministry rivalry. But flipped it into something positive. How?
By keeping his eyes on the mission and glorifying God for the results rather than who gets the credit.
This should represent our primary ministry goal although it will present a major, ministry challenge. And yet, offer us the greatest reward and sense of satisfaction in the Kingdom of God.
Join me next week in a look at Philippians 1:19-25. Also, check out Finding Grace, my new Christian detective novel.
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 10, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 1:6-11 discusses the good work God started among church members, encourages them to continue in the faith, and offers practical advice.
Philippians 1:6-11 discusses the idea of God’s work and presence in Christ-followers
V. 6 He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
What good work is Paul talking about?
My Background on the book of Philippians blog article introduces three people: Lydia an entrepreneur, a fortune teller slave girl, and a Roman jailor.
What do they have in common?
They all decided to follow Jesus when Paul shared the gospel with them. That’s the good work Paul talks about. Have you made that decision? When you do a spiritual transformation takes place in your life.
And your journey begins as a saint, which is described in Philippians 1:1-5. It’s an ongoing process of transforming into the image of Jesus. Paul is confident because the work of the Spirit is active and ongoing in the life of devoted Christ-followers who are molded into the image of Christ.
Read Galatians 5:22-23 to see what this transformation looks like.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Which of the fruits listed appear in your life? Which ones are lacking?
Paul is confident God will continue working in the life of the Philippian church. But reminds them it is an ongoing process in this life and only completed in the next.
Philippians 1:6-11 discusses the expression of God’s love in the life of Christ-followers
V. 9 I pray that your love may abound…
The Greek word for love in is agape and describes God’s unconditional love. It is the love God has for mankind. The love that motivated Him to offer His son, Jesus Christ, as a sacrifice for our sin. And the love He expects Christ-followers to express towards others in an abundant, overflowing supply.
Agape love is better described by your actions–how you treat others–than your feelings for them. But your feelings–or affections–are for Jesus Christ. So you treat others with respect and in a loving manner to demonstrate your love for Christ.
Is there someone in your life God is nudging you to express agape love towards? Take a moment to pray for that person and ask God to reveal what agape love might look like in that relationship.
Philippians 1:6-11 advises the Philippian church how to live as disciples of Jesus
V.9 …more in knowledge and all discernment
The Greek word for knowledge is ginosko, which means to know and understand. And the Greek word for discernment is aisthanomai, which means to perceive and understand. But aisthanomai also includes the idea of judgment in decision-making. In other words, first you must know the difference between right and wrong and then exercise good judgement in applying it to life circumstances.
Take a moment to reflect on the two words. How have you demonstrated them in your own life?
REFLECT AND RECORD
Describe occasions when the two words synced together and when they did not.
V. 10 …approve the things that are excellent;
The Greek word for approve is dokimazo, which means to put to the test. It’s often used in relation to testing coins–determining what is genuine. And the Greek word for excellent is diaphoroteros, which means great, honorable, and what matters.
In other words, Paul encourages the saints to know God’s word, understand its meaning, and discern how to apply to the important matters in life.
V. 11 …being filled with the fruits of righteousness…
The Greek word for righteousness is dikaiosune and in this context implies your character and actions. Doing what’s right and pleasing in the eyes of God.
God’s Spirit transforms your character. One that strives to please God by knowing and properly applying His word. Which in turn, further transforms your character. It is never a straight, smooth line upward, but a jagged one of ups and downs. But through God’s power and by His grace, keeps ascending until you finally meet Jesus face to face.
Join me next week in a look at Philippians 1:12-18. Also, check out Finding Grace, my new Christian detective novel.
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 2, 2022 | Blog
Philippians 1:1-5 begins with a positive expression of joy and thanksgiving. Paul also discusses identity and encourages the Philippian church to continue growing in their faith.
Philippians 1:1-5 discusses Christian servanthood
Paul starts by identifying himself and his audience.
Identity is a big deal in today’s culture. On one hand it’s a polarizing topic. But on another, confusing. Who am I? What determines it? How should I express myself?
REFLECT AND RECORD
Write a sentence or two that describes your identity and how you reached this conclusion. What influences and experiences formed and affirm it?
Paul identifies himself and Timothy as servants of Jesus Christ and his audience as saints.
The Greek word for servant is doulos, which means slave. Slavery was an accepted and common practice in the ancient world. Although its practice during that time was perhaps, different than how it’s perceived in American history.
The Old Testament also describes Moses, Jeremiah and Daniel as servants. Read Exodus 12:31, Jeremiah 25:4 and Daniel 9:6. The Hebrew word used is for servant is ebed. It means slave too, although it also presents a sense of authority. In other words, these prophets are messengers used as instruments, chosen by God.
Paul might be saying this about himself. He is first, a humble servant of Christ. But in the Philippian letter, he also carries the weight of authority.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Describe your relationship with Jesus Christ. Is it a slave and master relationship? Are you an instrument for God? What shapes your thoughts on this? Do your actions and attitudes support or contradict it?
Philippians 1:1-5 discusses Christian sainthood
When used in a modern context, a saint often implies a sense of moral superiority. Someone who has reached a higher spiritual level than others. But that’s not what Paul means here. Because the Greek word for saints is hagios and also translated holy. It means to be set apart.
To be set apart as a follower of Jesus Christ does involve a distinction. It means to separate yourself from an immoral lifestyle and dedicate yourself to God through intentional, righteous living.
It doesn’t mean you’re perfect. Or morally superior. Because you still sin. The difference is you strive not to sin. And demonstrate a life that is visibly recognizable as a follower of Jesus Christ.
REFLECT AND RECORD
Rate yourself on a scale between 1-10 as a saint set apart to God. What are some ways your life demonstrates it? How might you do better? What makes the difference?
Philippians 1:1-5 discusses Christian partnership
Making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel
Christian ministry is not a spectator sport. Where pastors and church staff do the work and members of the congregation cheer them on. It’s a partnership. A we’re all in this together endeavor.
Paul expresses joy that the members of the Philippian church “get it.” They support him financially, but also spiritually and emotionally. And in spite of imprisonment, he prays for them with a sense of joy as they demonstrate lives obedient to Christ.
The point is, God desires his church to move together in community and ministry. And to work in unity. It’s not the promise of an easy life. But one filled with joy.
Join me next week as we look at Philippians 1:6-11. Also, check out Finding Grace, my new Christian detective novel.
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 | Jul 27, 2022 | Blog
Background on the book of Philippians begins with its author–the Apostle Paul. He wrote it as a letter to the church while he was imprisoned in Rome. Here are other elements that form the background on the book of Philippians.
Background on the book of Philippians involves the city of Philippi
The city of Philippi was named after Philip of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. It was a Roman colony where many Roman soldiers retired and its inhabitants enjoyed the privileges of Roman citizenship.
These colonies, located on the outskirts of the Roman empire, and populated with former soldiers, effectively secured the empire borders.
The book of Philippians is commonly called one of Paul’s prison epistles. Paul wrote two other epistles during his prison stay. The New Testament books of Ephesians and Colossians.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a call by God
God uses Christ-followers to carry out his will. And God initially called Paul while traveling to the city of Damascus. At the time, Paul actively persecuted the Christian church. But on the road to Damascus, God appeared to him in a blinding light.
Because of the encounter, Paul commits his life to Christ and makes a course correction. Ok actually, a complete change in direction. And what the Bible calls repentance.
Has God ever affected a course correction in your life? Take a moment to reflect and write down what it involved. How did it impact your life today?
Then Paul dreamed about a man from Macedonia who asked for his help. And he concluded God was calling him to go there and preach the gospel.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a woman entreprenuer
So Paul ends up in the city of Phillip and on the Sabbath, he looks for a group of Jewish worshipers to join. And he meets Lydia, a business woman who sells purple cloth.
She’s described as a “worshiper of God” which probably means she practiced the Jewish faith. But when Paul shares the gospel with her, she opens her heart to faith in Jesus and is baptized. And immediately offers her home as a meeting place for other followers of Jesus.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a fortune teller
Next Paul encounters a young, demon possessed slave girl. And the demon gives her the power of fortune telling, which is highly profitable for her owners.
As Paul and Silas share the gospel around the city, she follows them for several days announcing, These men are servants of the Most High God who proclaim to you the way of salvation.
It’s easy to imagine her mocking tone of voice. As if to say, these guys are complete losers. Take them seriously and you’re a loser too. Similar to the way many skeptics view Christ-followers today.
But after several days of this verbal onslaught, Paul had enough. He commanded the evil spirit to leave her.
It obeys Paul’s command and with the vacating spirit went the slave girl’s fortune telling abilities. Her lucrative income. Which left her owners very unhappy.
So they dragged Paul and Silas before the city rulers and complained. And the rulers–seeking to please the citizenship–had Paul and Silas beaten and thrown in jail.
Background on the book of Philippians involves a suicidal jailer
That evening around midnight, with bruised bodies and feet lock in stocks, Paul and Silas do just what you expect after a hard beating…pray and sing hymns to God.
Suddenly, an earthquake occurs, prison doors fly open, chains fall off, and the jailer behaves with a clear head. He draws his sword to kill himself. An impulsive, act first, think later, knee jerk reaction that accomplishes half your goal.
He stops, however, when Paul assures him no one has escaped. And he falls before them and asks how to be saved.
They share the gospel with him, he believes in Jesus, and then takes them into his house and treats their wounds.
The next day, the city rulers told the Jailer to let Paul and Silas go. But Paul tells him to inform those leaders that he and Silas are Roman citizens who were denied due process. And demands the city rulers to personally escort them from jail.
Which they do. Afterwards, Paul and Silas encourage their new group of believers and leave.
And so you get a glimpse into the beginning of the Philippian church.
Join me next week as I dive into Philippians 1:1-5.
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.
