Pastor’s Notes
Have you ever thought that the pastor was speaking directly to or about you in a sermon illustration? Even though we know that he is not, at times the message is so relevant to our lives, we think that he is. Now can you imagine if the pastor was actually speaking about you and not only was he speaking about you, he called you out by name? Can you imagine!
This is what we see in the beginning of chapter 4. So far, Paul has spoken a lot about the importance of church unity. He has spoken from a generalized birds eye view of the importance of loving each other well and showing grace for the betterment of the church. With that being said, Paul leaves the birds eye view and goes right for real life examples in this week’s text.
In this week’s scripture, Paul gives us examples of two women who love the lord, but have a hard time liking each other. Have you ever been in this predicament before? Even though we should not ever go through such conflict or frustration as believers, I do believe it’s common and often experienced. However, Paul offers not just encouragement for this church, ladies, and you and I, but also direction in how to strengthen relationships with others who we have difficulties with.
Paul tells all of us to
“Rejoice” in the Lord.
“Let your gentleness be known to all.”
“The Lord is at Hand.”
Just like Peter did, Paul is once again pointing our attention outside of our circumstances. Paul knows that we as sinful and emotional individuals can not just simply turn off feelings which are created and give life to conflict. So what does Paul do? Paul tells us to focus our attention on the beautiful grace and love of God!
A rejoicing spirit is a gentle spirit and a healing spirit to the church and the world. The sequence of Paul’s opening commands first to rejoice and second to be gentle tell us that the most immediate outward expression of a rejoicing heart is Christlike gentleness toward all people. Focusing on God will naturally transform our heart to love others more like God loves others.
Are you at odds with someone? Then you first need to rejoice in the goodness of who God is! By rejoicing and fixating your eyes on our perfect loving Father, our hearts will follow in gentleness towards others.
Scripture to go along with the message
Read 2 Corinthians 10:1 as Jesus describes Himself.
Highlight in your Bibles
Highlight verse 4 & 5 in chapter 4 of Philippians.
Questions to consider
1.) Have you ever had conflict or frustration with someone within the church or faith?
2.) Why is such conflict dangerous and harmful?
3.) How can we apply what Paul has told us to our past, current, or future situations?