FAMILY TALKS IN PHILIPPIANS #4: WELL-ADJUSTED LIGHTS IN A DARK WORLD (Philippians 2:12-30

Expository, Letters of Paul, New Testament, Philippians, Philippians - FAMILY TALKS IN PHILIPPIANS

WELL-ADJUSTED LIGHTS IN A DARK WORLD – PHILIPPIANS 2:12-30

FAMILY TALKS IN PHILIPPIANS #4 of 7

  • When you sing the children’s song, “This Little Light of Mine”, what do you think about?
  • In Matthew 5:14-16 Jesus tells us that we are the light of the world and that we should let our light shine. What happens when Christians let their lights shine?
  • In Philippians 2:15 Paul is telling the Philippians and us that we need to be well-adjusted “in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation”.

After talking about a well-adjusted commitment that centers around the example of Jesus in Philippians 2:1-11, Paul gives pointers on being well-adjusted as lights in this dark world.  

ENLISTED TO SHINE – Philippians 2:12, 14-15

  • 12 – Notice that the Philippians had a history of obedience.
  • What does the term “work out” imply?
  • “Fear and trembling” mean exactly that. Fear here does mean to be afraid.
  • 14 – Grousing and quarreling have put out the light in many a Christian and church.
  • 15 – Notice the qualities we are striving for as we work out our salvation.

ENPOWERED TO SHINE – Philippians 2:13

  • We can only work out what we have within.
  • In Christ we have all we need to live as light in the world. Consider Galatians 2:20, Romans 8:1-4, and Philippians 4:13.

ENCOURAGED TO SHINE – Philippians 2:16-30

  1. By the Example of Paul – Vss. 16-18
  • 16 – Paul wanted the Philippians to hold fast so he could rejoice in the “Day of Christ” that his labors were not in vain. Paul was not giving up on them. They should not give up on themselves.
  • 17 – A burnt offering was often accompanied by a drink offering that was poured on the altar or in front of it. As the Philippians lived a sacrificial life of service, Paul poured out his life as a sacrifice, adding to theirs. On Paul’s part, this is a statement of humility.
  • 18 – Paul considered suffering for Christ a joy and privilege. Do we?
  1. By the Example of Timothy – Vss. 19-24
  • 19-21 – Paul could not go himself, but was sending someone who had the same attitude and care for their Spiritual well-being.
  • 22-24 – Because of Timothy’s proven character as an obedient protégé, Paul was sending his best if he could not come himself.
  1. By the Example of Epaphroditus – Vss. 25-30
  • 25 – Epaphroditus was the one who was sent to minister to the needs of Paul. What qualities mentioned here are a good example?
  • 26-27 – Epaphroditus was concerned that the Philippians would not fret over him.
  • 28 – Notice Paul’s unselfishness.
  • 29 – In what ways should we honor faithful servants of Christ?