If you haven’t read Part 1, posted on 03/06, go back and read it for the full context.
Introduction: Obviously, after reading these verses, there should remain no doubt that it is God’s will for His Church to be unified under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Look at how important that is to Him. This is seen not only in this passage but in numerous others as well.
For the sake of reviewing once again, let’s go back to the letter from Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, to the Philippian Church. Several unifying words stand out. As you read them, see if they are present in your life. And if not, make the necessary changes by the power of the Holy Spirit.
1. See the importance of the harmony of the saints! (Philippians 2:1-2) – “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”
Our Lord’s encouragement through Paul to the Church then and now was to work together, not apart; love each other, not fuss and fight; and serve Him to accomplish His will rather than your own will.
Are you working together? Are you intentionally loving each other with Christian love? Are you serving the Church of Jesus Christ with a spirit of cooperation instead of division?
Will you step back and see the big picture in order to reach and teach people about the gospel of Jesus Christ? Remember, you can be working diligently and yet not in harmony, consequently hindering the progress of the work of the Church.
2. Check out the humility of the Church! (Philippians 2:3) – “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
Please take a moment to reread this verse in the Bible. Do you recall what the word “strife” means? Here it is—it means selfish ambition, rivalry, self-seeking, a feud, or a faction.
So instead of prideful arrogance—a “know-it-all” attitude—or trying to one-up everyone, believers in the Church should remain teachable as well as leadable.
Are you teachable? Do you listen to wise counsel?
3. Finally, consider the honesty of the believers! (Philippians 2:4) – “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
Do you know what? The only way you and I can fulfill this instruction is by taking our place at the cross. Why? Because we are selfish by nature and therefore look out for number one—me, myself, and I!
Now, does it make sense that the Church is a supernatural organism—not just a mere organization—empowered by the Holy Ghost, which supersedes human ability?
Conclusion: Don’t forget: UNITY = Maturity + Diversity.
In other words, what makes a great Church is great members. Go back and evaluate to see if you fit this criteria, which is marked by harmony, humility, and honesty.
If not, ask Jesus to change your heart so that it lines up under His will—all for His glory!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
