Pastor’s Notes

 Therefore 

What a huge punch this one word carries.  In chapter 2 of Philippians, Paul has already said so much from his cell in prison.  Paul writes to his “Partners in the Gospel” to stay united.  Paul speaks to those he so loves to stay focused on the gospel and to care well for each other.  Paul tells us the people and you and I today to be like-minded in what brought us all together in the first place.  The gospel of Jesus Christ!! The worship of our Creator!!  To praise our King and Father in  Heaven!! 

So “Therefore“….. Paul tells us that because of our remembrance of why we first came together, love each other well.  Endure with each other through struggles and different seasons of life.  Paul encourages us to lift each other up while refusing to tear those around us down.  You see, Paul saw the storm coming.  He knew the hardship that would come upon the believers and followers of Jesus. 

With that being said, Paul knew that the church was key.  Paul knew the church was essential, so he did his absolute best to bring the people together. 

In this week’s text, Paul goes into more detail about what grace towards each other looks like.  He also gives us all the bigger picture of how grace towards each other greatly impacts on how others see the power of God and the goodness in Jesus.  How we treat each other within the church will have a great impact on how the lost and struggling view the hope needed in Christ.  Not only does grace towards each other keep our church stronger, but grace towards one another will add others to our family.         

Scripture to go along with the message

Read Ephesians 4:29 on the subject of grace towards others. 

Highlight in your Bibles

Highlight verses 12 and 13 in Philippians 2. 

Questions to consider

1.) Where have you seen grace towards others build, restore, or strengthen what was once broken?

2.) How did this grace go on to bless you and others in the future?

3.) Now, where have you seen your lack of grace hurt you and others?