6. PAUL’S STEWARDSHIP AND TOIL (PHIL 1:27-30)

6. PAUL’S STEWARDSHIP AND TOIL (PHIL 1:27-30):

Paul writes to the Philippians to only let their manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether He come and see them or is absent, He may hear of them that they are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by their opponents. That is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of their salvation, and that from God. Paul wishes the church to reflect the love and life of Christ through their lives on the earth so that they will receive a good report about their faith and conduct with the genuine fellowship to strengthen one another. Also, Paul would know that the believers are not frightened by anyone or anything that is against them. Their conduct and right behavior will not only be an obvious sign of the destruction of their opposers, but also a sign of their spiritual growth, aligning with the ways of God.

Paul further conveys that for it has been granted to them that for the sake of Christ they should not only believe in Him but also suffer for His sake, engaged in the same conflict that they saw he had and then hear that he still has. Paul reminds the believers about the persecutions and sufferings he had endured and continued to face for the sake of the Gospel of God, and he emphasizes that they also have the same calling to endure the challenges they have to face for the sake of Christ, rather than just believing in Him and enjoying the privileges.

Stimulations for Self-Reflection:

1.      How does Paul want the Philippians' manner of life to be?

2.      Why does Paul want their manner of life to be worthy of the gospel of Christ?

3.      What does Paul mean by saying ‘Standing firm in one spirit’?

4.      What does Paul mean by saying ‘With one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel’?

5.      What is the significance of not being frightened by anything by their opponents?

6.      How the Philippians ought to suffer for Christ’s sake?

7.      How shall we not be frightened by our opponents for the sake of the Gospel?

How shall we prepare ourselves to be ready to suffer for Christ’s sake than just believing in Him?

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