Partners in the Gospel

Series: The Book of Philippians

Partners in the Gospel

Philippians 1:1-11

BACKGROUND

The City of Philippi was 800 miles from Rome, in modern day Greece.  It was comprised of retired Roman soldiers, native Macedonians and Greeks.  They were religiously pluralistic.

 The Church at Philippi

·      It was a diverse church.

·      It was a loyal church.

·      It was a giving church.

The Occasion of Paul’s Letter:  Paul had received a gift from the church, and he was addressing some of the issues the church was facing while writing a thank you letter.  

Verses 1-2

Christians are saints who are set apart because we are In Christ.

Christians are to become willing slaves of God—not from domination, but rather devotion. 

Verses 3-8

Believers share a deep relationship because of common faith.  

The Greek word for fellowship is Koinonia.  

This deep relationship causes us to be patient, forgive, and accept one another.   It also leads us to sacrifice for one another. 

Christians not only share a common faith in the gospel, but they should partner together to advance it.   

True brotherhood is developed while doing ministry together.

Consumerism adversely affects the depth of fellowship.

Practical Tips for Fellowship…

1.  Seek to develop meaningful relationships in the Church

2.  Join a Sunday School Small Group

3.  Invite a college student out to dinner after church

4.  Offer to serve our young families

5. Visit a shut-in

Verses 9-11

It is natural to pray for people that you love.   

Real love is grounded in truth.   

Knowing the difference between good and better is evidence of growing in love with God. 

Christians should seek an inner purity and to externally be blameless.  

Today’s Takeaways: