Are there different types of Christianity?
At a Bible study group looking at the book of Philippians one of those present was struck at how different the Christian life described in the New Testament is to what most people think of a being Christian today. He asked,
“Is every Christian meant to be like the apostles or is there another less intense form of discipleship?”
The leader replied,
“Your word ‘intense’ has associations with being over the top and a bit neurotic. Perhaps it would be better to ask ‘Are all Christians meant to be as devoted to serving Jesus as the apostles clearly were”
The book of Philippians does suggest that the apostles expect all Christians to be devoted to Christ. The Christian life is not a matter of keeping to regulations.
Loving the Lord is Essential
The Jews in Jesus’ time made the mistake that trying to keep rules is the way to satisfy the Living God. God’s people have always been meant to have a close loving relationship with the Lord. It is because we are profoundly grateful at being chosen by God to be his people, at being forgiven, that we love him and want to live in a way that pleases him.
Our poor attempts to keeping his rules can never give us a relationship with God, it is our loving devotion that God is looking for.
“Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.” Deuteronomy 6:4-6
When Joshua summonsed all the Jews together shortly before he died, he reminded them of this truth,
“ So be very careful to love the Lord your God.” Joshua 23:11
Paul certainly loved the Lord Jesus. This was obvious by the way he lived. He could honestly say,
“ For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21
Paul wrote to a church that thought that experiences were the mark of Christianity and corrects this view:
“If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord!” 1 Corinthians 16:22
This is a strong apostolic warning that love for Jesus is not optional — it’s central.
Jesus himself equates love with a heart-felt obedience
“If you love me, keep my commands.”John 14:15
“Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” John 14:23
Just as out love for our wife or husband is seen by the way we talk about them and are seen to do things that please them so love for Christ is shown by a desire to obey what he wants.
Peter was asked three times. After he had denied knowing him three times:
“Do you love Me?” John 21:15–17
This shows that love for Jesus is foundational in the Christian life and is the door to Christian service, Jesus went on to say to a repentant Peter,
“Feed my sheep”
Real faith always expresses itself as a love for Jesus and his people
“The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” Galatians 5:6
So love for Christ is the sign of true discipleship
“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” Ephesians 6:24
How then should Christians live?
One thing is clear, if we are followers of Jesus we must aim to become like him and adopt his aims and manner of living. How this works out will differ between individuals. A Christian housewife with children will follow Christ in a different way to a Christian business executive or a professional sportsman, but the basic desire to live for Jesus will be the same. Jesus is our model and the apostles strikingly said that we can see how Jesus lived in the way they lived. Thus Paul could write:
“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.” Philippians 3:17-18
“ I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children. Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I urge you to imitate me. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.” 1 Corinthians 4:14-17
“Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God - even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:32-11:1
Members of Galatian church were returning to the rituals and rules of Judaism so Paul says,
“I fear for you, that somehow I have wasted my efforts on you. I plead with you, brothers and sisters, become like me, for I became like you.” Galatians 4:11-12
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9
All Christians should be apostolic, following the teaching and priorities of Christ and his apostles. The importance of role models who imitate christ are always important:
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7
“You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians1:6
Both these examples emphasise the need for sacrificial living so that Christ’s gospel, shared with us by the apostles, may be widely known.
Church leaders today
All church leaders today need to embody the life of Jesus as seen in his apostles. All must obviously share their deep desire to persuade as many people as possible about the gospel so that they can be saved. They need to share this love for others and have a desire to build up the churches by faithfully teaching what the Bible says.
In medieval Germany there was a picture depicting many souls trying to swim to heaven, striving for salvation. Alongside them, in the picture, is a boat filled with bishops, monks, nuns, and clergy, instead of pulling them into the boat and simply telling them to keep going . It suggests that the ‘religious’ are assured of salvation and have an easy ride to heaven. Martin Luther’s severely criticised the clergy of his day who failed to teach how salvation is available to all through a personal commitment to Christ as our Lord and Saviour.
Our status and religious devotion in this world may count for nothing when we meet the Lord Jesus in judgment. Jesus was clear:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ Matthew 7:21-23
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Philippians on Christian Priorities
On a trip to India a senior Christian from the USA was talking with someone who had been a Hindu priest, named Satis Prasad. The Indian said he wanted to come to the United States to work as a missionary among the Americans. The Christian assumed that that he wanted to convert Americans to the Hindu religion, but when asked, Satis Prasad said,
“Oh no, I would like to convert them to the Christian religion. Christianity cannot survive in the abstract. It needs not membership, but believers. The people of your country may claim they believe in Christianity, but from what I read at this distance, Christianity is more a custom than anything else. I would ask that either you accept the teachings of Jesu in your everyday life and in your affairs as a nation, or stop invoking His name as sanction for everything you do. I want to help save Christianity for the Christian.”
The Philippian church stood out, in the way they understood the Christian life, and Paul highlights what he most admires about them. They understood something that many Christians today have ceased to practice. Paul wrote this open letter ‘to all the saints of Christ Jesus at Philippi’ but intended its message to be understood by all Christians everywhere. They had understood the grace of God, the undeserved kindness he has given us in coming as Jesus, and longs that, even in the tussles that will result in trying to live for him, they will all experience a deep peace.
“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:2
What thrilled Paul most about this church?
“I thank my God every time I remember you.In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,. . .” Philippians 1:3-5
They had realised that they had been accepted by God into his kingdom in order to serve him. They were all partners with the apostles in the work of sharing the gospel with others. This was not meant to be a short lasting enthusiasm that disappeared over the years. Paul’s prayer and confidence was that, what had so clearly started, would continue throughout life until people meet the Lord Jesus in person.
“. . . being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6
This emphasis was at the heart of Paul’s thinking. Nothing would stop him from sharing the news about Jesus, this was his life.
“. . . whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.” Philippians 1:7
The evidence that they share in God’s grace is that they share in God’s purpose for life. These are not just empty words of love, God knows all about how people think and act:
“God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:8
What motivated Paul most?
For Paul, even imprisonment had not dulled his deep-seated longing that others should be saved.
“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.” Philippians 1:12
Paul would not allow any problems, such as imprisonment, to restrict this commission God had given him.
“As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.” Philippians 1:13
What clear thinking - Paul recognised that those Roman soldiers in the Palace Guard who were chained up to him for four hour shifts during his house arrest were a God-given opportunity to share the gospel. Can you imagine Paul’s conversation? After politely introducing himself he would surely ask,
“Do you know why I am in this situation?”
The conversation would then inevitably move on the the subject of Jesus and who he was and consequently the gospel message was discussed by the whole regiment.
Richard Wurmbrand
Richard Wurmbrand (1909–2001) was a Romanian pastor of Jewish origin who was imprisoned and tortured by the communist regime for his unshakable faith and bold witness for Christ. He became a Christian in the 1930s after reading the New Testament and hearing the gospel. Subsequently he became a Lutheran pastor and a prominent underground church leader. After World War II, when Communism took over Romania, Wurmbrand boldly preached that communism and Christianity were incompatible and that Jesus Christ is in charge of all.. He was arrested in 1948 by the Securitate (secret police) and spent a total of 14 years in prison. Despite severe torture, isolation, and starvation, he refused to stop preaching about Jesus. He secretly preached to other prisoners and even witnessed to his torturers. He subsequently wrote the famous book ‘Tortured for Christ’, detailing his experiences in prison and his love for Jesus and his persecutors.
“I have seen Christians in Communist prisons with fifty pounds of chains on their feet, tortured with red-hot iron pokers, in whose throats spoonsful of salt had been forced without water, starving, whipped, suffering beyond description - and they would not give up their faith. They sang songs in prison.”
Wurmbrand spent 3 years in total isolation in an underground cell, no light, no sound, no contact with anyone. But even there, he shared Christ, he tapped out Bible verses, sermons, and encouragement in Morse code on the walls or pipes of his cell. Other prisoners tapped back - and in this way, a secret fellowship of believers emerged even in total darkness. In ‘Tortured for Christ’, he wrote:
“We preached the gospel where only whispers and taps could be heard.”
He used every opportunity to preach Christ crucified and risen, and that God remained with his people. He said:
“Alone in my cell, cold, hungry, and in rags, I danced for joy every night.”
Nothing could stop them talking about Jesus and the Bible’s message:
“It was strictly forbidden to preach to other prisoners. It was understood that whoever was caught doing this received a severe beating. A number of us decided to pay the price. The following scene happened more times than I can remember: A brother was preaching to the other prisoners when the guards suddenly burst in, dragged him out, and beat him severely. Afterward they brought him back and threw him — bloody and bruised — on the prison floor. Slowly, he picked up himself, painfully straightened his body, and said, ‘Now, brothers, where did I leave off?’”
Similarly for Paul, what mattered to him was to honour Jesus Christ by all he did and said. He knew he was ‘in chains for Christ’. The effect of Paul’s brave witness encouraged other Christians in Rome to have this same priority:
“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.”
Similarly the effect of Richard Wurmbrand’s brave stand had great effect on Christians throughout the world when his story became known.
Watchman Nee
Watchman Nee (1903–1972) was a powerful Chinese Christian leader, evangelist, and teacher who preached the gospel throughout China and suffered greatly for it. Like Richard Wurmbrand, he refused to stop talking about Jesus, even when it cost him everything.
Watchman Nee was born in Foochow, China, into a Christian family. When 17 years old he committed his life to Christ, after hearing the gospel in high school. He gave up academic ambitions to preach and teach full-time. I had the joy of seeing his bungalow in Foochow. It had a large front room where people could come to hear the Bible taught and a small bedroom at the back for him to sleep in. He preached extensively across China in the 1920s–1940s, trained many church planters, wrote books, and established strong local Christian communities. He was known for his well applied biblical teaching — especially on the inner spiritual life, the cross, and Christ as life. His book ‘The Normal Christian Life’ (based on Romans 6–8) became a global classic in Christian literature.
After the Communist takeover of China in 1949, Christianity was seen as foreign and subversive. In 1952, Watchman Nee was arrested by the Communist authorities, falsely accused of being a reactionary and counterrevolutionary and was imprisoned for 20 years.
In prison he endured hard labor, isolation, and ‘re-education’ but despite severe restrictions, he continued to witness to fellow inmates and guards whenever he could.
He was unable to write much during this time, but testimonies from fellow prisoners confirm that he remained steadfast in faith and witness. One prisoner reported:
“He was a shining light in that dark place.”
Watchman Nee died in prison in 1972 at the age of 68 and his family was not allowed to see his body. A prison worker later passed on a note found under his pillow, believed to be his last written words:
“Christ is the Son of God who died for the redemption of sinners and was resurrected after three days. This is the greatest truth in the universe. I die because of my belief in Christ.”
Paul continues to stress that the promotion of the gospel is what really matters, even more than life and death. He writes,
“What has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.” Philippians 1:12
“I am in chains for Christ.” Philippians 1:13
“. . . most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” Philippians 1:15
Paul had his enemies but still he could say,
“I am put here for the defence of the gospel.” Philippians 1:16
“The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached.” Philippians 1:18
Nothing thrilled Paul more than to see the person of Jesus being talked about and his message proclaimed:
“And because of this I rejoice.” Philippians 1:18
Paul was hopeful that his forthcoming trial would result in him being cleared, but whatever happened he was able to hope that he:
“ . . will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.” Philippians 1:20
Paul then shares a wonderful summary of what his life was for:
“ For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
This is what Paul longs for all Christians in all ages to decide. It is a decision we all need to make. Christians are the slaves of Christ. This is how Paul began the letter:
“Paul and Timothy, servants (or slaves) of Christ Jesus,” Philippians 1:!
This why he can say:
“If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labour for me.” Philippians 1:22
To work hard and imaginatively for Christ was his heart’s desire until the Lord called him into his presence:
“I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.” Philippians 1:23-24
Paul again returns to the purpose of his life, this was to encourage and help others live for Christ.:
“I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.” Philippians 1:25-26
Whatever happens to Paul he longs for all Christians to live their lives for Christ just as he has:
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27
What does this mean? It must be by their lifestyle and by what they say to others. The church is a unified community that is working together for Jesus to be honoured. People won’t be offended by kind, generous godly living but there will be upset by the unique message we share. In spite of this opposition we must keep going and not be afraid.
“. . .without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.” Philippians 1:28
Sharing the message of the Word of God with others is a vital ingredient of the Christian life:
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing,so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold out the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labour in vain” Philippians 2:14-16 (1983 NIV)
Some translations say “as you hold firmly to the word of life” which suggests people hanging in there with Christ. However to “hold out the word of life”, an equally valid translation suggests sharing the gospel, and in context, it almost certainly includes that idea. Paul encourages the Philippians to shine like stars in the world, and that shining involves offering Christ, the word of life, to others.
Opposition to Christ
If Christians are not experiencing any opposition they should be asking themselves whether what they are saying to people is helping them come to Christ. It does seem that there are many in our churches or all denominations who don’t seem to understand or care that those who reject Christ are rejecting eternal life with him. Hell is the future for such people according to Jesus and his apostles. Don’t we care? Some worry more about cats, dogs and donkeys than that all the people God made should live in harmony with him.
“This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved - and that by God.” Philippians 1:28
Any who oppose Christians who are trying to share the gospel with others face eternal separation from God but for those involved in gospel ministry, it is a sign that they will be saved.
Genuine Christianity
Paul knows that sharing the faith is not easy but to suffer for Christ is the mark of Christians. All who are devoted to the Lord’s service will face troubles but that is a feature of the Christian life.
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.” Philippians 1:29-30
Paul said the same in his final letter to Timothy and the churches:
“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” 2 Timothy 2:12
The joy of working for Christ keeps recurring throughout this letter. Timothy was an example of a Christ-centred servant.
Epaphroditus, who came from Philippi is described as being:
“ . . . my brother, fellow-worker and fellow-soldier.”
At a Bible Study looking at this book someone asked:
“Isn’t this standard of being a Christian different for the apostles and a few idealists? Surely all Christians aren’t expected to be like this?”
Surely our model is the Lord Jesus, it is he that the apostles tried to emulate. In chapter 3 urges all Christians to follow his example. He didn’t see himself as being extra-ordinary:
“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” Philippians 3:17
This is a repeated theme throughout the New Testament. Paul wrote to the troubled church at Corinth advising them to follow the example of the apostles and not that of their pseudo-apostles. Paul longs that all Christians should do everything they can to be close to other people so that they may learn about Jesus and become his followers:
“For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 10:33-11:1
All Christians are meant to be radically different from the world because we live with heaven in mind. That is what motivates us in the way we live:
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” Philippians 3:20-21
It is the power of God’s Spirit that can transform us into christ pleasing people.
Worldly Christians
In contrast to Paul, Titus and Epaphroditus, Paul knew that some in the churches were still self-centred::
“For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.” Philippians 2:21-22
Paul later returns to the problem that was so rife in churches then and continues to be so today. It is all too easy to be involved in a church and agree with its creeds but to be worldly in our thinking and behaviour. To be a Christian is costly.
“For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” Philippians 3:18-19
This recalls what Jesus himself had said:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23
We all have to decide what sort of people we are going to be.
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The Focus of the Early Churches
It is easy to determine when something is aflame. It ignites other material. Any fire that does not spread will eventually go out. A church without evangelism is a contradiction in terms, just as a fire that does not burn is a contradiction.
Reading through the book of Philippians again this week I was struck how sharing the news about Jesus is the central theme.
Paul is Christ-centred
He explains that his life’s desire is to to honour the Lord Jesus and he recognises that this will need courage:
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.” Philippians 1:20
What a tragedy it is that so many contemporary church leaders emphasise social problems and political problems but very rarely that the Lord Jesus is our greatest need. The early church was very different.
Paul obviously knew that this would be the problem of many churches. Look through Philippians chapter 1 and notice how Jesus is the obvious central focus. Jesus is mentioned in most verses, seventeen times in this one chapter:
1:1 (x2). 2, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 23, 26, 27, 29.
The Bible is clear, every Christian must determine to live for Jesus Christ. Paul makes this clear:
“For to me, to live is Christ.” Philippians 1:21
We organised an inter-church youth service and a lady from a local liberal church came with three of their youngsters. She went and sat alone so I went up to welcome her and sat down next to her. I was taken aback when almost the first thing she said was,
“Do you know the trouble with your church, you talk too much about Jesus.”
Looking at how often Jesus Christ is mentioned in nearly every sentence both is this letter to the Philippians but also in the first letter to the troubled church in Corinth reveals what the apostle |Paul thought of such thinking!
Paul’s purpose does not waver even prison did not blunt his ardour:
“. . . what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.” Philippians 1:12-13
We can imagine Paul’s guards, chained to him for hours, discussing why Paul had been arrested and his explanation of the gospel. It seems that through them many became Christians.
Living his life out for Christ was Paul’s great ambition:
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:20-21
For Paul his existence was centred on working for his Saviour.
“If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labour for me.” Philippians1:22
Note that Paul uses the word ‘fruitful’ – he wants to produce more ‘fruit’ for his Lord.
All God’s people should be mission-centred
Sam Shoemaker, an Episcopalian bishop, summed up what being ‘fishers of men’ should not become:
"In the Great Commission the Lord has called us to be, like Peter, fishers of men. We've turned the commission around so that we have become merely keepers of the aquarium. Occasionally I take some fish out of your fishbowl and put them into mine, and you do the same with my bowl. But we're all tending the same fish."
Both the Old and New Testaments make it abundantly clear that evangelism is bringing people to repentance and so bringing people into the Kingdom of God. In the old Testament we read:
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life and he who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30
“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens and those who lead many to righteousness like the stars for ever and ever.” Daniel 12:3
This is reflected in what Jesus taught:
As Jesus was planning to return to his Father he repeatedly told his people why they had been commissioned. At the end of Matthew we have the Great Commission:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations . . .” Matthew 28:19
Who was this commission given to? Verse 16 says it was said to the eleven so why is it relevant to us today? Read on:
“. . . teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:20
John 13-17 is the final briefing Jesus gave to his disciples prior to his execution. He is preparing them for their future ministry in mission. He certainly doesn’t want followers in name only. In John 15 Jesus describes himself as being the true vine and therefore:
“He cuts off every branch that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit, he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” John 15:2
What does Jesus mean by fruit? As so often he is using a concept from the Old Testament:
“. . . but the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them.”’ Exodus 1:7
“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.” Psalm 92:14-15
God people are meant to always ‘bear fruit’, to multiply, even in old age and they do this by passing on to others the confidence that they have found in their Lord.
Some have suggested that this fruit is just the character change that occurs when people follow Christ, and is ‘the fruit of the Spirit’ that we read about in Galatians 5:22 – ‘love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self control’. However these characteristics are all about the interpersonal relationships that are necessary if we are to bring people to Christ, there is much more to being a Christian than these interpersonal features. Warm relationships with people are vital if we are to bear fruit and win people for Christ.
John makes it abundantly clear that Jesus is talking about evangelism when he talks about ‘every branch that bears no fruit’ as later in the chapter he says:
“I chose and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last.” John 15:16
No fruit would be harvested by just sitting at home watching television, we have to go out into God’s world to be effective for him! How will people be won for Christ? Jesus then gives us the answer:
“The Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father – he will testify about me. And you also must testify.” John 15:26-27
Jesus clearly knew that the temptation would be for Christians to keep quiet about their commitment to him, so he warned us:
“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33
We must all acknowledge our allegiance to Jesus openly. For many this will necessitate a change of direction. What prevents Christians being more open about their commitment to Christ? Isn’t it essentially a fear of man? Jesus warns us not to succumb to this:
“Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” Luke 9:26
Yet so many calling themselves Christians are ashamed. What we put into our service of Christ will be reflected in the next life. Isn’t that what the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) and the parable of the ten minas (Luke 19:11-27) are teaching us. We must all use the gifts God has given us to promote the glory of the Lord Jesus.
The Philippians were mission-centred
The opening chapter of Philippians is not only full of Jesus Christ but also focusses on mission. He starts the letter by saying what gives him great joy:
“I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now . . .” Philippians 1:4-5
For Paul gospel work was not easy and had a cost but the Philippian church as a whole were sharing in this work:
“. . . since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.” Philippians 1:7
For Paul, the fruit of righteousness was the change of character to becoming that of christ and sharing in christ’s mission to produce fruit for God’s kingdom: This is what Paul prayed for the Philippians and what we should be praying for each other:
“. . . filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:11
Paul uses this idea of bearing fruit as short hand for gospel ministry in his letter to the Colossians:
“All over the world the gospel is bearing fruit and growing.” Colossians 1:10
The example of Paul, constantly telling everyone he could about the Lord Jesus has a great stimulus to others to do the same:
“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” Philippians 1:14
‘Advancing the gospel’ must involve proclamation, teaching and preaching. In the next paragraph ‘preaching’ is emphasised three times:
“It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill..” Philippians 1:15
“The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition . . .” Philippians 1:17
“The important thing is that . . . Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” Philippians 1:18
This power of example can be seen today. When church leaders, pastors and elders have this same desire and others can see this, then people in the church will be infected with the same passion.
Paul’s visit to Philippi on his second missionary journey was in 55-56AD and a church was founded then. The letter to the Philippians was probably written from Rome in 60-62 AD, just 5 years later. Yet during this time the church had grown to such an extent that it had several overseers and several deacons!
After Paul has shared his own ambitions with regard to serving christ he returns to reminding the Philippians that this is their responsibility too:
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, . . . I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.” Philippians 1:27-28
The ‘work of the gospel’ is sharing the message about Jesus. This is what Paul’s co-workers were active in doing. Promoting Jesus and the gospel of salvation through faith in him must always be the priority of Christians:
“For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.” Philippians 2:21-22
To be fruitful Christians will always entail hard work, we will have to ‘strive’ and we will face opposition but this is the way to bring glory to our creator and Lord. Proclaiming Jesus is vital:
“This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.” Philippians 1:28
Being Christ-centred will have consequences but all will be worthwhile:
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.” Philippians 1:29-30
In any church there will inevitably be tensions but for the sake of Christ’s reputation we must behave as he did.
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold out the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.” Philippians 2:14-16
We are all meant to shine for Jesus as we both hold to the Word of God and show him to others.
Too often people attempt to draw people into a church by their social activities and leave the message about Jesus on the sidelines. Dr Paul Brand was speaking to a medical college in India on
“Let your light so shine before men that they may behold your good works and glorify your Father.” Matthew 5:16
In front of the lectern was an oil lamp, with its cotton wick burning from the shallow dish of oil. As he preached, the lamp ran out of oil, the wick burned dry, and the smoke made him cough. He immediately used the opportunity.
“Some of us here are like this wick,” he said. “We're trying to shine for the glory of God, but we stink. That's what happens when we use ourselves as the fuel of our witness rather than the Holy Spirit. Wicks can last indefinitely, burning brightly and without irritating smoke, if the fuel, the Holy Spirit, is in constant supply.”
The Holy Spirit always points people to Jesus.
The Thessalonians were also mission-centred
This focus on evangelism seems to have been a major feature of most early churches. Quite close to Philippi was Thessalonica and the young church there was also established during Paul’s second missionary journey. It was built on the character, leadership and teaching of Paul, Silas and Timothy but Paul pointed them to Jesus and the Scriptures.
“. . . our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake.” 1 Thessalonians 1:5
The gospel, the word of God, came to them not just as information but it came endued with power. The Lord Jesus was relevant and able to answer the needs of peoples’ hearts. It is important to see the effect that gifted individuals have on others but then look past them to see who it is that they are following. Christians are the first reflection of Jesus that some might see, we are reflecting the character and person and work of Christ to the people who are looking at us, watching what we do and say. But what they ultimately need to see is not just the mirror that will be smudged and streaked but the person of Jesus we reflect to them. To some measure Paul was able to do this and he taught others to remain focussed on Jesus and God’s message to mankind through his word.
“You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so that you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.. The Lord’s message rang out from you not only on Macedonia and Achaia – your faith in God has became known everywhere.” 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8
Paul says that others are being influenced by the lives and words of these Thessalonians. So what is it that made them so effective in setting the example to the people and villages and cities around them? They both lived Christ-centred lives and spoke about the one who motivated them.
You have probably heard of Gandhi's legendary mantra,
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” He also said, "An ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching?"
The leaders we look up to often have inspired us because of both their words and actions. The need for excellent examples in life is fundamental. Hypocrisy is most unattractive as many have noted:
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others, it is the only means." - Albert Einstein
“People may teach what they know, but they reproduce what they are.” - John C. Maxwell, American pastor and author
“Nothing so conclusively proves a man's ability to lead others, as what he does from day to day to lead himself.” - Thomas J. Watson, Chairman and CEO of IBM
“The leader sees things through the eyes of his followers. He puts himself in their shoes and helps them make their dreams come true. The leader does not say, ‘Get going!’ Instead he says, ‘Let's go!'’ and leads the way. He does not walk behind with a whip; he is out in front with a banner.” - Wilfred Peterson, actor and film producer
“Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” - Mark Twain
“What you want to ignite in others must first burn inside yourself.” - Charlotte Bronte
In 1873 two Christian preachers were talking about a conference they had just attended. Henry Varley said to his new friend D.L.Moody,
“Moody, the world has yet to see what God will do with a man fully consecrated to him.”
These words so pierced Moody’s heart that he couldn’t get them out of his mind and said these words to himself,
“I will be that man. If God is looking for a man of integrity, a man of honour and courage and faithfulness, with God’s help I will be such a man.”
Moody would go on to become one of the greatest evangelists of the 19th century.
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Philippians overview - being joyful under pressure
Paul’s letter to the young Philippian church was written as they faced much pressure, much as churches in the United Kingdom are facing problems today. Just as the Arctic ice cap is melting away, so are many churches in the west as they face an increasingly secular and hostile society.
The church at Philippi was the first Christian church in what is now Europe. Paul here demonstrates what a great pastor he was. Paul had first visited Philippi and established the church there in 51 AD. The letter was written in 61-62 AD.
The influence of godly, yet passionate, leaders can be immense.
Isobel Kuhn was to become a very effective and influential missionary to the Burmese Lisu people in China. In 1920 she attended a conference and had to share a room with the speaker whose husband had recently died when they were working in China. Isobel herself was still suffering from a broken engagement. What most touched Isobel was the way Edna longed to live for and please the Lord Jesus. The two studied the book of Philippians together, using the marginal notes in her late husband’s Bible.
Joy is a recurrent them in Philippians, the word ‘joy’ comes five times with ‘rejoice’ a further six times. The theme of joy pervades all four chapters. Isobel saw this joy being lived out in front of her by a lady who was facing difficult circumstances. Edna, the widow, clearly understood the verse:
“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
It was obvious that for Edna knowing the Lord Jesus meant more than anything else. She could say with Paul,
“I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.” Philippians 3:8
Knowing Jesus, meant everything to Edna, as it did for Paul,
“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.” Philippians 3:10
This surely means facing suffering and even death with the same attitude that Jesus had, knowing that something much better is to come. For Paul, this prospect kept him on course.
“But one thing I do. Forgetting what is behind, and straining towards what is ahead, I press on to the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14
Suffering is a recurrent theme in the New Testament. Peter’s first letter, written as he faced probable execution in Rome is a plea to Christians, in what is now modern Turkey, to stand firm in the faith in the face of suffering.
The ‘grace of suffering’
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians there is a key but strange verse,
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him; since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.” Philippians 1:29-30
The word used for ‘grant’ is based on the Greek word charis, which means grace or gift. It is a gift of God that we want to be one of God’s people when so many around us couldn’t care less about God. Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, the Russian writer won both the Nobel Prize for Literature and the Templeton Prize. He spent many years imprisoned in the Russian Gulag camps in Siberia and subsequently wrote about what had gone wrong in Russia since the revolution and subsequently what is going wrong in the West, In his Templeton Prize acceptance speech he summarised the problem,
“Men have forgotten God.”
Significantly Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s faith came alive when he suffered in a Gulag prison. He came to ask, as every Christian does,
“Why should I be concerned about God and my salvation when so few others bother at all?”
Paul reminds us that to have faith in Christ is a gift of God. God chose us to be his representatives in a fallen world. But surprisingly he goes on to say that suffering for Christ is also a ‘grace gift’. ‘It has been granted to you’ is saying that the suffering they were facing was a gift.
Sometimes it is only when we face suffering that we begin to consider, ‘What is the purpose of life?’ and ‘Where will I go after we die?’ Unfortunately this is all too rare. People who have lived without God tend to die without God and don’t ask these essential questions. However, there are some wonderful exceptions, as facing suffering can focus our minds on what really matters.
In this letter Paul acknowledges that the Philippians were, ‘going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.’ This must refer to what happened when Paul first visited Philippi as described by Luke in Acts 16:11-40. After Lydia became a Christian there, a slave girl was miraculously healed. There was a riot against Paul, instigated by the girl’s owners, and he was subsequently stripped, flogged and imprisoned. After God’s remarkable intervention, through a violent earthquake, the jailer and his family became Christians. The magistrates then released Paul after realising he was a Roman citizen but told him to leave the city. Such problems dogged Paul and he writes, ‘and now hear that I still have.’ He was writing this letter when he was again imprisoned, this time in his own lodgings but chained between guards. However even this did not stop Paul explaining the gospel to all around him. The guards could not escape from hearing what he had to say! He wrote,
“Now I want you to know, brothers that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for the gospel. Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.” Philippians 1:12-14
Oh that most Christians would follow this example. Paul can write,
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27
Whether Paul is to be released or not, what matters is that all Christians make the advance of the gospel their priority. This is a repeated theme in this book:
“I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:5
“. . . for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.” Philippians 1:7
“ . . . what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.” Philippians 1:12
“It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of good will.” Philippians 1:15
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel.” Philippians 1:27
“. . . in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life . . .” Philippians 2:16
I was asked to speak at the funeral of Jack, a man who had become a Christian. What a joy it was to hear him say before he died,
“Please make sure you make the gospel clear as many of my friends and family do no know it.”
At the cremation service later he even paid for copies of the evangelisic book ‘Cure for Life’ to be given to those attending.
The Pressures
We do live in a world full of suffering. We will all suffer at times. Yet the joy of living to please our God and Saviour supersedes all these problems.
External pressures from the world
There will be fierce opposition from the world. What Christian has not been openly ridiculed in conversation, ‘I thought you Christians would/should . . .’ Discrimination against colour is disapproved of but discrimination against Christians is becoming increasingly common in our society, yet few speak against this. We must determine not to be frightened, or to weaken, but to press on living with and for Christ.
“ . . . I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.” Philippians 1:27
Paul himself was under immense pressure. He was imprisoned, with the risk of execution. Rival preachers were making his life a misery, particularly as he felt so strongly that the church must remain true to the gospel and apostolic priorities.
Internal pressures from within the churches
All churches will face divisions within both their denomination and within the local church. Locally there will always be tensions, often based on personality clashes and different priorities for the church. Such things are nothing new:
“Do everything without complaining or arguing . . .” Philippians 2:14
How many denominations have openly turned against the teaching on sexuality taught in the Word of God. This again is nothing new. The early churches faced much pressure from Christians who longed for the church to follow Jewish laws and not the apostles. Paul was outspoken against such heretical leaders because he knew that there are certain areas on which no compromise can be entertained:
“Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the spirit of God, who glory in Jesus and who put no confidence in the flesh.” Philippians 3:2-3
Today there are many within the church who want to move us away from apostolic priorities. We must be on our guard against those whose agendas are not those of Christ.
“For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things . . .” Philippians 3:18-19
In the Philippian church there were the usual internal factions too. Two key gospel minded ladies in the church were at loggerheads:
“I plead with Euodia and Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these ladies who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel . . .” Philippians 4:2-3
These interpersonal disputes do not mean that individuals are not Christians because Paul continues,
“Whose names are written in the book of life.” Philippians 4:3
The early church was not all sunshine, it was beset with just the same problems that we face today. The way to resolve tensions is not to take sides but to decide what path will most benefit the advance of the gospel.
Persecution
In the television series ‘Dad’s Army’, the farcical Corporal Jones keeps finding himself in trouble. However his repeated catchphrase, ‘Don’t panic, don’t panic’ has an underlying sense. We are called to be in the world as Christ’s representatives, but that is precisely where the problems are. We must learn not to panic but act in ways that will please God.
If a Christian in Philippi was invited out to dinner, the toast at the end would often be to the emperor and everyone was expected to say,
“Our Lord and Saviour,”
Obviously a Christian couldn’t say that so it is no surprise that people began to gossip about the Christian’s loyalties to the state! The same is increasingly happening in the west. If a Christian affirms what the Word of God teaches, that marriage can only be between a man and woman, he can be accused of going against the state and the way society is moving. Yet Paul says something very striking:
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him but also to suffer for him.” Philippians 1:29
It is so easy and very common for people to think that when problems or hostility comes our way it is because God is displeased with me. But look again at this verse. Just as our faith in Jesus is a gift of God, so is the gift of suffering for him! When a Christian looks back to when he or she first turned to Christ, many ask, ‘Why me? Why did I, from all my friends feel the need for Christ?” It is certainly not because we are special. The Bible simply answers, ‘Because God chose you.” (John 15:19, Galatians 1:6, Ephesians 1:4,11, 1 Peter 2:9, Amos 3:2)
If a person loses his job because of his commitment to Christ or is ridiculed in some way, then similarly it is not the result of God’s anger but must be seen as a privilege. If a Christian is having a smooth ride through life it could mean they are not speaking up for Christ as they should. To be a Christian is risky. Didn’t Jesus say after telling people that he was going to Jerusalem to be killed,
“Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” Mark 8:34-38
Paul has this same longing for the next generation of Christians in Philippi. Paul himself was deeply committed to Christ. He could say,
“For me, to live is Christ, to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21
What better motto can anybody have? There is a time when we should stand up for what is right. Early in Queen Victoria’s reign a dinner was held in a luxury house in the west end of London. After the ladies withdrew the conversation became crude and vulgar. One man said nothing till he suddenly asked the servant to call his carriage. With great courtesy he turned to his host and apologised for his early departure, adding,
“. . . but I am still a Christian.”
That young man had much to lose, so acting in such a way could have been costly. He had obtained double firsts at Oxford in both classics and mathematics, had become a Member of Parliament when only 21 years of age and was already recognised as an up and coming politician. He needed friends at this stage in his career. His name was Robert Peel. He was later to become a very popular Prime Minister. His action at that dinner was not done to make himself look better than others but to remind his friends, at a huge potential cost to himself, that God is not to be trifled with.
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Philippians The Fellowship of the Gospel
The letter of Paul to the church at Philippi is not all about ‘joy’ although this is a large aspect of the letter. It is about joy when facing adversity. Paul was imprisoned in Rome, chained to soldiers of the Imperial Guard, and facing a capital charge. So the joy he is speaking about is that deep-seated peace and satisfaction that the Lord Jesus has everything under control.
Gentile believers in Christ did not have to be circumcised or follow Jewish regulations in order to be saved. This was a critical decision and meant that Gentiles could now become equal members of the Christian church with Jews, but it resulted in considerable opposition from some Jewish Christians who felt that their Jewishness was being undervalued. Paul was spurred on to continue the work for which he had been called.
Paul and Barnabus separate, Paul being joined by Silas on his second missionary journey and they were joined by Timothy when they passed through Lystra. They began by revisiting the churches that were founded on his first missionary journey and then planned to visit Bithynia, which is now northern Turkey, facing the Black Sea. However this plan was thwarted by God. As they were staying in Troas, by the mouth of the Dardanelles Luke joined them. Paul was then given a vision of a man in Macedonia appealing to them to ‘Come and help us.’ Paul had no doubt about what they most needed to help them,
“ . . . concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” Acts 16:10
There is nothing that people need more than to understand who made this universe and what he has done for us in Christ.
Philippi
So they set sail to Neapolis and then walked the nine miles to Philippi. This city had around 10,000 inhabitants. The city was built on a narrow shoulder of rock and was crowned by the Acropolis. The city overlooked the Via Ignatia, the main route from Rome to the Eastern Empire. It had been founded in the mid fourth century BC by Philip of Macedonia and it was named after himself. This Philip was the father of Alexander the Great. Philip employed the great philosopher Aristotle to train Alexander from the age of 13.
In AD 42 Mark Anthony and Octavius (later to be called Emperor Augustus) defeated the forces of Brutus and Cassius who had been involved in the assassination of Julius Caesar. Later, in 31 BC Augustus defeated Mark Anthony at the naval Battle of Actium and so became the undisputed leader of Rome.
Philippi became a Roman town, the only language spoken was Latin. The inscriptions found in the town were exclusively in Latin, no Greek was permitted. The citizens wore Roman clothes. The leadership and the aristocracy were all Roman. The town was called ‘Little Rome’. This meant that Greek speakers were an underclass.
The Gospel of Christ Spreads
Yet it was to the Greek speakers that Paul came primarily to help, these would be the tradesmen and construction workers. Paul’s usual custom when visiting a new town was to go first to the synagogue of the local Jews. In the book of Acts this is mentioned five times. In Philippi however there were so few Jews that there was no quorum (ten men) for a synagogue. He did discover that a group of god-fearing, Gentile women met every Sabbath by the river outside the city walls and the group went to meet them. Just fifty yards from the city.gate flows the river Gangites and it is possible to go to the exact place today. There the band of Christians expalined the Christian gospel and one lady, Lydia, committed herself to Jesus Christ.
“The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.” Acts 16:15
Then she and her whole household were baptised in the Gangites and she subsequently welcomed the four to stay in her house.
Then the opposition from Satan grew. A slave girl with a ‘Pythonic spirit’, who was under demonic control and was used by her owners to make money, incessantly identified the Christians publicly. What she said was true:
“These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.” Acts 16:17
Perhaps it was the scornful way this was said that irritated the Christians, but after being harassed for several days, Paul acted and said to the demon:
“In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her.” Acts 16:18
At that moment the evil spirit left her. The owners of the slave girl quickly realised that their hope of making money through this girl was gone and they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them to the ‘agora’, the market place, to face the authorities. The accusation reflected the fact that Philippi was a very Roman city:
“These men are Jews and are throwing our city into an uproar. By advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practise.” Acts 16:20
The crowd joined in this anti-semitic attack and both Paul and Silas were stripped, tied to a whipping post and severely flogged by the ‘lictors’. They were then thrown into the local gaol under close guard. The two were consequently put is an inner cell in the prison with their feet in stocks. However, far from feeling depressed and defeated the two were rejoicing. They prayed and sang hymns to God. Real hymns are always addressed to God in worship. Doubtless they also took the opportunity to explain the gospel to others in the prison who were ‘listening to them’.
God was very much with his representatives and an extraordinary coincidence occurred.. There was a violent earthquake and everybody’s chains fell off and the prison doors flung open. For a prison warder to let prisoners escape was a capital offence so when the warden saw what had happened he was about to ‘fall on his sword’. Paul saw what was happening and called out,
“Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” Acts 16:28
Doubtless the warden knew something about Paul’s message, perhaps he had heard the message of the slave girl,
“These men are servants of the most high God, who are telling you the way to be saved.” Acts 16:17
He may have overheard what Paul and Silas had been saying to others in the prison. The response was dramatic, the guard rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas and said,
“What must I do to be saved?” Acts 16:30
What better question can anyone ask? The reply is one that is just as relevant to us today,
“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved – you and you whole household.” Acts 16:31
To allow myself to come under the authority of the Lord God, the Lord Jesus, is the only was to being made right with God. Clearly this apostolic message, that we have in our Bibles, all needed to be carefully explained and this is then what Paul and Silas proceeded to do:
“Then they spoke the word of God to him and to all the others in his house.” Acts 16:32
It was only then that the gaoler washed their wounds. He and his whole family were then publicly baptised as being followers of the Lord Jesus. This is remarkable as it was because Paul and Silas had been openly aligning themselves with Jesus that they had got into such trouble.
So a new church was established consisting at first of an upper middle class business lady and her family, an ex slave-girl ‘pythoness’ and a Roman ex-soldier and his family. This was not a homogeneous plant yet it became a church that was very special to Paul; he could write to them,
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers I always pray with joy because of you partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. . .” Philippians 1:3-5
Partners in the Gospel for Christ
‘Partners’ is a key word in the book of Philippians coming in various forms five times in this book. The Greek word koinonia is a term used in business to show that people are partners in an enterprise. Today ‘fellowship’ can used loosely to denote any form of friendly meeting. Thus the ‘Wednesday afternoon ladies fellowship hour’ can simply mean a get together for a gossip, cakes and biscuits! Paul uses the term to mean a mutual commitment for the advance of the gospel. He talks about ‘the partnership of the gospel’. This is the core business of God’s church. In Tolkien’s ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’ there was this common understanding of the nine disparate members of the ‘Fellowship od the Ring’ to oppose the power of evil.
Some ten years after Paul’s short visit to Philippi (AD 60-62) he was again languishing in prison chained to guards, this time in Rome. The Philippian church sent Paul a monetary gift that was carried by one of their members, Epaphroditus. He had almost died getting to Rome to deliver the present. Paul then sent this letter to the Philippians back with Epaphroditus. It is full of gratitude and joy. He says that Timothy will be coming to visit and encourage them. He warns them against the many false teachers, ‘the dogs’, who were troubling them. But behind all this there is the repeated encourgaement and reminder that they are members of the ‘Fellowship of the Gospel’.
Paul’s Greeting in Christ
It was standard practice to include the name of the sender and that of the recipient at the beginning of a letter in those times, yet in this letter the opening is carefully tailored. He omits his title of authority, ‘apostle’ instead saying that he is a servant or slave of Jesus Christ. In little Rome, which relied so much on slavery, this was highly significant. Paul and all Christians are willing slaves of the beneficent Jesus Christ. We find total security and satisfaction by being in his service. The use of this word is intentional as he uses it once again in the letter, but this time it refers to Jesus himself,
“Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ: Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with god something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a slave/servant . . .” Philippians 2:7
Timothy is also named at the beginning but later in the letter he is an associate and not co-author. It is addressed in familiar tones to the whole church in Philippi. All Christians are called ‘saints’, it is not a term reserved for ‘super-Christians’ God has no favourites. This forshadows what he goes on to say in the letter about Christian unity. Karl Barth astutely comments,
“A hero, a genius, a religious personality stands alone. That’s not Paul. An apostle has others stand beside him, like Paul, on his own level.”
The heart of the letter is clear, there must be church unity:
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel.” Philippians 1:27
Our Purpose is Christ
Evangelism, partnership in the gospel, goes alongside a real caring for other Christians, both are fundamental,
: . . . because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,” Philippians 1:4
“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” Philippians 2:1-2
“Each of you should look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:5
“Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 2:5
Paul longs to encourage these Christians to work hard for the glory of Jesus Christ.
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed - not only in my presence but now much more in my absence – continue to work our your salvation with fear and trembling. . . .” Philippians 2:12
Paul lifts up the example of two key workers. Timothy,
“I have no-one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare . . . Timothy has proved himself . . . he has served with me in the work of the gospel.” Philippians 2:20-22
Epaphroditus is described as “My brother, fellow-worker and fellow soldier . . .” Philippians 2:25
However the obvious focus of the letter is Jesus Christ. No other name occurs in this letter more than that of Jesus, his name comes seven times in the opening 11 verses!
Paul’s description of Jesus given in the famous Carmen Christi passage sets Jesus up as the greatest example for us to follow:
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11
If we find living as a Christian is easy, something is wrong. I was once asked to lead a midweek Christian Basics course in a large local Roman Catholic Church. Attendance was remarkable. At the last evening there were around 120 present. After the first evening an Irish lady came up to talk to me, saying
“Thank you so much. That was wonderful. I don’t know why everybody isn’t a Christian . . .”
I smiled and nodded appreciatively, but then came the bombshell,
“ . . . after all, all God wants is one hour a week!”
I had clearly failed to make it clear that a Christian is someone whose whole life is committed to Christ. True worship occurs every hour during the seven day week. The book of Philippians is about people who are in fellowship with Christ and therefore in the ‘fellowship of the gospel’. We are co-citizens in heaven because Christ has given to us his perfect righteousness. Without the gift of being counted righteous no-one can enter heaven.
Joy is given to those serving Christ
The presence and service of Christ always gives great joy and peace. This whole letter sparkles with this joy that the imprisoned Paul experiences.
“I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel.” Philippians 1:5
“The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” Philippians 1:18
“ . . . I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith.” Philippians 1:25
“Then make my joy complete by being like minded.” Philippians 2:2
“Even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.” (In Greek joy comes four times in these verses) Philippians 2:17-18
“ . . . so that when you see him (Epaphroditus) again you may be glad . . . “ Philippians 2:28
“Welcome him in the Lord with great joy.” Philippians 2:29
“Finally my brothers, rejoice in the Lord.” Philippians 3:1
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4
“I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me.” Philippians 4:10
In addition Paul longs for them also to experience the peace of God that coes as we learn to rejoice in all he is and all he has done for us.:
“Rejoice in the Lord, . . . with thanks, giving present your requests to God . . . And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7
What a wonderful promise this is, one that the Lord Jesus wants all Christians to experience. We need to train our minds to think like Paul. Everything is in our Lord’s hands, we need fear nothing, not even death if we are active in fulfilling our Lord’s commands and are partners in sharing the gospel with others. Joy is so infectious. Robert Louis Stevenson once said,
“When a happy man comes into a room it is as if another candle had been lighted!”
When the spirit of gladness and thankfulness rules our hearts, light springs up all around us to dispel the darkness and gloom. An elderly Christian lady was suffering for many months with painful illness. She said to her pastor: "
“I have such a lovely robin that sings outside my window. In the early morning, as I lie here, he serenades me.”
Then, as a smile brightened her thin features, she added,
“I love him, because he sings in the rain.”
That is the most beautiful thing about the robin. When the storm has silenced almost every other songbird, the robin sings on – it sings in the rain. That is the way the Christian who is with Christ should live. Anybody can sing in the sunshine; but Christians should sing on when clouds pour out their rains, for Christ is with us. We should sing in the rain.
This book of Philippians has so much to say to us all. How about reading it through every day for a week? It only takes 15 minutes and there is so many precious truths to be found.
BVP
Philippians 1:3-6. True Fellowship
Broughton Fox was a well-known theologian who was a young chaplain in the Royal Navy when the whole country was preparing for the D-day landings during World War II. He was with the sailors who were focussed on invading Normandy. He wrote,
“The minds of all hands on board, regardless of rank were focussed on each other and the invasion’s success. No-one thought of his own personal interest but he thought of the interest of others and thought how he could help his shipmates in their commonly shared task.”
Years later he said,
“I remember noting in my mind that I had never been happier.”
After the successful invasion, the sailors returned to the United Kingdom but something had changed. Christian fellowship is much more than friendship, it is a group who are committed to a common goal.
“The answer was quite simple. During those months that preceded and followed D-day our thoughts had a minimum of self-centredness in them. We gave ourselves to the shared activities and objective. But once the undertaking was over we reverted to our old purposes as we normally do.”
This feeling is common to all who are pursuing a common goal and it flourishes in the common pursuit of this goal.
‘The Fellowship of the Ring’ was the first book of J.R.R Tolkien’s trilogy ‘Lord of the Rings’, coming out in 1954. It was preceded by ‘The Hobbit’ which was published in 1937. The ‘Fellowship of the Ring’ consisted of nine individuals coming from very different, even ridiculous, backgrounds. They were brought together by a common purpose. They counter-balanced the Saurons who appear as the nine Ringwraiths. From Middle Earth came four Hobbits, tiny beings with large hairy shoeless feet, named Frodo, Merry, Sam and Pippin. There were also two men, Boromir and Aragorn, warriors of the first rank, who were always dressed and ready for battle. There was one wizard, Gandolf, an elderly man who had always opposed evil, who had supernatural powers and wisdom. Then there was the elf Legolas, an archer with pointed ears and Gimli, the dwarf who stoutly wielded a battle axe.
The Elves and the Dwarfs have an innate dislike of each other, each feeling they are superior to the other. This disparate group were bound together by the mission to defeat the forces of evil and so save Middle Earth. They became inseparable and in the end the man Boromir gave his life to save the Hobbits. Ultimately the Elf and Dwarf became such good friends that Gimli was inducted into the distinguished order that was reserved for Hobbits.
The stories vividly portray the battle between good and evil, power and greed, innocence and enlightenment. Such a fellowship cannot exist unless the conditions are right – people must see that there is a battle to be won.
Paul similarly talks about the Fellowship of the Gospel:
“I always pray with joy because of your partnership (or fellowship) in the gospel from the first day until now . . .” Philippians 1:5
This fellowship exceeds all other fellowships. There is a battle going on and we are all needed to play our part. Our adversary is always looking out for discouraged stragglers, rather like a pride of lions are looking for those who are outside the herd of wildebeest or deer.
“Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, stand firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” 1 Peter 5:8-9
Paul does not have these concerns about the church in Philippi. The opening verses are a joyful acknowledgement of the vitality of this church.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-6
Friends in a Fellowship
As Paul thought about the small church in Philippi he undoubtedly would have thought of its members, Lydia and her family, the prison guard and his family, Euodia, Syntyche and Clement and others added to the church. Perhaps he smiled as he wrote,
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel . . .” Philippians 1:3-4
This is so typical of Paul. He seldom thanks God for physical things, it is nearly always people that he is grateful for. He remains grateful even for those Christians who cause trouble., such as Euodia and Syntyche! The book of Romans was written before he had ever visited that city. However in the last chapter he mentions thirty-three individuals by name and sends nineteen greetings! Some of us may have heard of George Verwer who is now in his eighties. He was the founder and drive behind Operation Mobilisation. He also is remarkable for the way he keeps in contact with thousands of people, we had a personal e-mail from him just over a week ago. An amazing man who also demonstrates the importance of being a ‘people-matter’ person.
Joy because of Christ
Paul is so grateful for each of the people in Philippi. Verse four demonstrates the intense emotion Paul felt for these people. Note the use of the words, ‘every time’, ‘all of you’, and ‘I always pray with joy’. This note of joy is a recurrent theme in this letter, coming fifteen times in this short letter. This theme culminates with the great verse,
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, rejoice!” Philippians 4:4
What what is that thrilled Paul so much about this church? They were certainly an outgoing church. One minister said to his church,
“What we need to concentrate on is caring for ourselves first. When that is right we can think of others outside!”
What a foolish sentiment this is. We need to learn to be caring people both for those in the church, to encourage them and for those outside the church so that they may be saved.
The Philippians were a caring church. When Paul wrote to the Corinthian church he holds up the Philippian church as a great example of what fellowship means. Note again how ‘joy’ is a feature of this church.
“And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.” 2 Corinthians 8:1-5
When Paul wrote this letter to the Philippians he was chained as a criminal. The joy he experienced was not the result of prosperity or success. It is was na mood but an attitude of mind that came from his grasp that the Lord is in control of everything. When we have this perspective on life everything changes, this is why Paul can write:
“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord . . .” Philippians 3:1
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4
What Paul wrote was not theoretical advice, he had learned this from bitter experience.
“But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.” Philippians 2:17-18
How we all need to understand this, our joy comes because we have an eternal perspective. Even when I am told that I have a terminal disease that joy can still radiate from me. The source of our joy is the Lord himself, as the following verses make clear.
“Welcome him (Epaphroditus) in the Lord with great joy . . .” Philippians 1:29
“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.” Philippians 3:1
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4
“I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me.” Philippians 4:10
This is why joy can be a command. When we are trusting the Lord who has died for us so that our sin is forgiven and forgotten and we have been empowered by God’s Holy Spirit, the relationship our new attitude of mind makes joy the obvious outcome. Nothing else matters as much as this. Paul is assuring his friends who were so concerned for Paul that his joy has not disappeared. This is a repeated theme – it keeps chining. He models security and joy even when facing adversity. What a high standard he depicts, and what a challenge this is to christians everywhere.
Joy because they were Partners in the Gospel
The centre of this short passage gives another reason for Paul’s joy:
“I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel . . .” Philippians 1:4
They had grasped the commission that Jesus has given to his people.
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20
This fellowship or partnership is very real. We had the privilege of being invited to China and were thrilled to experience the bond that there exists between Christians of different background, ethnicity and language. They lived for Christ. The basis for this partnership was the threefold bond between the Philippians, Paul and the Lord Jesus Christ. The apostle John begins his first letter with the same idea:
“We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.” 1 John 1:3
It is important to remember that the Greek word for fellowship, koinonia, is the root for the Greek words that are translated both ‘partnership’ and ‘sharing’
To be members of their partnership is all God’s doing and choosing.
“. . . all of you share in God’s grace with me.” Philippians 1:7
One aspect of being in this fellowship will be to suffer in the same way that Paul, the apostles and other Christians have.
“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing his suffering, . .” Philippians 3:11
This fellowship is certainly costly:
“Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles . . . not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you only . . . you sent me aid again and again when I was in need.” Philippians 4:15-17
The Philippian fellowship rested on a close relationship with the one God, revealed in Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul is full of joy because he can see that the Philippian church had been involved in the fellowship of the gospel right from the day they became Christians.
“I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:5
Today all true Christians are involved ion this same three way bond, we are under the leadership of Christ and his apostles and prophets as revealed in Scripture, we are in a church team whose aim is to represent God and his wishes by promoting the claims of Christ to the world. Churches must be outward looking or they will inevitably die. Forget Middle Earth. These christians shared the gospel with all they could by both what they say and how they care for others needs. The Macedonian Christians were relatively poor, yet they gave beyond their means to support gospel ministry. But first they gave themselves completely to the Lord Jesus.
Let us read these opening verses again and let them encourage us in our commitment to serving the Lord.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-6
A church minister was preaching on this passage and added,
“”Oh that everyone in our church could have this same attitude.”
There are some people who regularly jump from church to church because they cannot find what satisfies them We never will until we all understand the commitment and the cost of being committed to Christ.
How encouraging verse six is for all of us. This is God’s work in us, the work of the Spirit is to keep us labouring with and for Christ. When we meet him face to face the struggle will all be worth while.
“. . . being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
The message of the book of Philippians is clear. Gos is in control whatever problems were are facing. The Fellowship of the Gospel is far from being just a social friendship. It is like a team that are focussed on winning for the manager they love.
BVP