Philippians 4:2-3
People of God always been under pressure, individually and corporately, from time they were outnumbered: pressured to conform to whatever majority decides. Pressure comes not only from those in power, also from those who haven’t been converted. Apostle exhorts believers in Rome to pay attention, “not be conformed to the pattern of this world”. Instead, urges them… and us… to be transformed, to develop with God’s help a radically different way of thinking. As that happens, child of God becomes more like Jesus, less like the world, at least is how supposed to work.
In this country, have done as Eliashib the priest in last chapter Nehemiah. Gave fellow basically hostile to God studio apartment inside Temple. Similar has happened in church in America – given world rooms in the church: methods and principles the world treasures being adopted and followed in Christ’s church. Must not do that – if principle we follow appears like way world does something, let it be they copy the church, not other way round. Especially important when differences among members of church family arise. Must act according to principles found in God’s word the Bible w/o fail.
NOTE: seems like too much of what is being said publicly and probably privately now is filled with acrimony: “Bitter, sharp animosity, especially as exhibited in speech or behavior.” Amer. Heritage Dict. Webster’s from 100 years ago, first definition: “A quality of bodies which corrodes or destroys others” Must not be like that, helps if we don’t listen when others display acrimonious quality. Must heed clear instruction plus Jesus’ example in thought and conversation.
A. the same frame of mind
a big deal
great potential for much damage if situation not brought to proper godly resolution – what happens in Dodge rarely stays there
concern for what would to personal relationships beyond the two, had already become public enough for Paul to name names
even though Paul thinking about potential for church split, doesn’t solve it for them – reminds them of what needs to happen
content to let godly wisdom among true believers coupled with ministry of Holy Spirit to carry the day – leave outcome with Lord
substantial difference
not simple thing like color of carpet in meeting place, don’t laugh, made local news, brought shame on both Christ and church
apparently really matter of principle, not preference – remember, making it up as they go, didn’t have complete NT like we do
precise issue not identified, not necessary, helps later readers profit, apply to their own situation, resolve important issues well
given history/commendation, “these women who labored with me in the gospel”, don’t believe would pick fight/get exercised over secondary things, something genuinely trivial
need for unity
not peace/unity at any cost, esp. anything that would compromise sound doctrine and understanding about the Gospel
said on previous “page” “let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” – wants them to settle on solution showing that
not new idea, not unimportant – Jesus “preoccupied” with unity/oneness among followers when facing death in few short hours
differences don’t have to disappear, rather set aside so those who love Jesus work together in godly way pursuing same purpose
B. the same Lord
right beginning
“in the Lord” favorite phrase, >40x in letters, 9x in Phil. – as work this out (and later) act as if Jesus sitting there at same table
follow his example laid out in Gospels, strive for Jesus’ way of thinking, see people/things from his perspective, act as he would
sound biblical principles must never be sacrificed even though they may be ordered: what is of first importance, secondary, etc
preferences about way principles applied to situations don’t need to be same – have liberty to differ with proper mind and act
right help
whatever specifics were, apparent difference beyond ability of women to sort out – interpersonal communication vitally important but imperfect
perhaps unwittingly using different definitions, parallel conversations, needed other ears/eyes to clarify root issue and resolve
not clear who true partner was but… someone Paul and church knew / trusted – could act as peacemaker/mediator to reconcile
if others in church family have insight, expected they would help process along to goal of genuine gospel-centered reconciliation
right service
had already been of invaluable service in Gospel ministry, working side by side with Paul along with Clement and other laborers
unstated desire for resolution to conflict so future working together is possible – had been effective in past, could be again
task of bringing Gospel to all who need it so large it requires everyone working together in church family to achieve goal, completing work Jesus began and then entrusted to followers
C. the same Book
shared destiny
apparently no doubt everyone Paul had in mind to be considered true converts – Paul not one to say so if not convinced by consistent evidence
city seen by John that had Lamb for it’s light one with controlled entry: “there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.” Rev. 21:27
another encouragement to sorting out differences in this life – is good preparation for spending all of eternity together in Jesus’ presence
also clear strong differences not disqualifier – far more important how we deal with them, doing so in way that sets good example
clear identity
if was obvious to apostle these friends were Christian brothers and sisters, was also apparent to friends / neighbors they were motivated by principles other than what world endorses
how they behaved toward one another observed by all sorts of people… in the church… in the world – opportunity for influence
often not necessary to announce identity, what we model for family togetherness makes clear who we belong to, follow
single purpose
to become as much like Jesus as possible incl. his single-minded focus on doing his Father’s work… centered on Gospel
“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1Pe 3:15
means must give people reason to ask about our hope – conversation w/Hospice social worker, how many make poor decisions esp. about end of life things b/c have no hope
whether rejoicing as next verse urges or sorrowing can with God’s help do so with hope
Should strive to not allow differences to divide us from one another. When we see it happening, help sort it out to the glory of God and for sake of Gospel. Can be of one mind and heart b/c God’s people have so much in common including Holy Spirit who indwells us. What draws together and binds together not limiting but blessing, foretaste of what we will enjoy in fullness forever.
Reformanda 