Today’s passage: Philippians 1:3-11
Helpful thoughts:
- A key term in this passage is partnership. As a church, our unity must be centered around the glory of God in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When it is, our partnership flourishes.
- God has promised to finish what He started (Verse 6). He saved us. He sanctifies us. He will perfect us. All glory be to God. (Romans 8:28-30)
- The love of a Christian for God and other Christians is intrinsically connected (Even strengthened) with knowledge (Verse 9). A humble approach to good doctrine should grow in us a love and affection for God and our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Questions to consider:
- The Apostle Paul knew the ups and downs of ministry just as well if not more than anybody. Why was he able to pray with joy in his every prayer for the church? Even when there are difficulties and issues to resolve amongst our church, why can we pray for one another with joy?
- What desires and personal ambitions can distract us from our true purpose and goal as a church? How does staying focused in partnership to fulfill the Great Commission make other matters seem less important?
- Why do some people minimize the importance of doctrine (Knowledge of the Scriptures) and call on others to simply “love” people? How do people sometimes approach doctrine in a way that would spur on this kind of response? What would it look like to thoroughly study the Word AND therefore be inspired and equipped to love people well?