A review of the basics is never out of order because we are influenced to a degree, by those things and people around us whether we realize it or not. There were Judaizers who came to Philippi urging the new believers to keep the traditions and practices of the Jewish religion. Some people inadvertently mislead … Read more
The word “finally” does not mean that the things he writes are sort of an add-on to the truths he has already taught. This adds a practical dimension to the teaching about having the mind of Christ. A spiritual mind can understand what is wrong as well as what is right. This mind is maintained … Read more
This begins the practical section of Philippians as Paul evaluates himself and others as an accountant would sum up figures to determine profit or loss. There are warnings given for the benefit of the believers against false teachers, against self-righteousness in themselves, against thinking we attain absolute perfection by our efforts and against false professions … Read more
If all the characteristics mentioned in this chapter teaching us of the mind of Christ were ours, we would have real joy in what God is doing in and through others, and in us. The examples of Paul, Timotheus and Epaphroditus should search us that we may see if we can be used for the … Read more
He was sent home carefully by Paul and was to be received joyfully. Such people deserve to be trusted respectfully. It is right for us to honor those who do what we can’t do, or go where we can’t go. In Epaphroditus’ service he was unreserved. That kind of person will give their lives for … Read more
This man is only mentioned here in Philippians but from the testimony given we can know he was trusted by the assembly to take money and deliver it to Paul. Paul also trusted him to return with this letter to the same people that sent him. Even though he was not a famous person well-known … Read more
Timothy followed the example of a trusted mentor who had sent him with a message and could be trusted to speak as a person who had the mind of Christ. Christ, as a servant, served God with “unparalleled humility, unreserved obedience and unquestioned victory.” He knew what He was sent to accomplish, and He did … Read more