Prepare for Sunday morning worship by using the guide below.
Philippians 4:1-9
4 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.
2 I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. 3 Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Watch the Sermon
Summary: This week's passage follows Paul's pattern of including general exhortations towards the very end of his letter. What is unique about this list of exhortations is that it's modeled after Paul's own behavior among the Philippians (4:9). Though we may be tempted to fly over a list of applications as "things we already know", this passage should cause us to stop, reflect, and see the fruit of striving for Jesus; individual, corporate, and spiritual peace. This is a peace that surpasses understanding and provides communion with the God of peace. We ought to strive for that worthy goal of an upward call and a peace with God that brings contentment and joy to the whole of our lives.
Review & Apply
Euodia and Syntyche are both listed as fellow workers with Paul, and yet they are clearly in the midst of a difficult conflict. Are there other New Testament examples of godly people in conflict? How do we prepare our hearts for conflict, knowing that even the godly are not exempt?
Do you think Paul is saying all kinds and forms of anxiety are sin? What are other Scriptures in the New Testament that might speak to the contrary?
Is it practical for Paul to call us to rejoice always? What can enable us to rejoice in trials, sufferings, or struggles?
Do you think your thoughts on a day-to-day level matter? How can verse 8 inform your thought-life?
What different areas of our lives does Paul address? What area of your life could be corrected by this passage?
Give
If you would like to give online CLICK HERE. For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. (1 Chronicles 29:10-18)
