[:en]IMITATING CHRIST’S HUMILITY (vs. 1-11)
Paul was telling the Philippians to be united with Christ through comfort in love, fellowship of the Spirit, tender kindness and compassion in like-mindness being one in spirit and purpose. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility, consider others better than yurselves. Each of you should look not only to your own inbterest but also to the interest of others” (vs. 3-14)
Paul encouraged us to guard against any selfishness, prejudice or jealousy that might lead to division. Sharing genuine interest in others is a positive way to maintan unity among believers.
The Humility of Christ is shown by: (vs. 6-8)
- Being in the very nature of God, He did not consider equality with God
- He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant and being made in human likeness
- He became obedient to die on the cross
Rewards of being humble:
- God exalted him to the highest place
- He was given the name that is above every name
- Every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth
- Every tongue shall confess that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God the Father.
SHINNING AS STARS (vs. 12-18)
“Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling (v. 12). Do everything without complaining or arguing so that you may become blameless and pure children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation. You must shine like stars in the universe and hold out the word of life. (vs. 14-16)
TIMOTHY AND EPAPHRODITUS (vs. 19-30)
Paul was in prison awaiting his trial. So he was preparing Timothy to carry on the ministry in his absence. Epaphroditus delivered money from the Philippian believers to Paul, then he returned with this thank you letter. While staying with Paul, Epaphroditus became ill and after he had recovered, he returned home.
In Summary:
- Imitate the humility of Christ
- Lay aside selfishness and treat others with respect. Consider other’s interest as more important than your own.
- Work out your salvation with fear and trembling by obeying Him and doing His will.
- Stop complaining, arguing, gossiping. Let the world see Christ in your church.
- Shine like stars in the universe characterized by moral purity, patience and peace
- Do not be pre-occupied with your own concerns and neglect your love to God and Christian service to others
- Prepare somene to carry on the ministry of the church
- Welcome people doing the work of Christ. Honor missionaries who gave their lives for the sake of Christ.
[:]