If anything.... unity & selflessness.

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My wife and I are leading a study on the book of Philippians in a class at our church on Sundays. This letter from Paul is fantastic. Written to the first church established in Europe, Paul is encouraging the believers in Philippi to continue striving for holiness, unity and Christ-like behavior. The church; which began in Acts 16 with a rich Asian fashion designer (Lydia), a young girl bound by physical slavery, and an apathetic indifferent jail guard; is now thanked by Paul for their support of his ministry and encouraged to continue to live a purposeful life through the freedom that comes with the gospel.

Philippians chapter two begins with Paul appealing to the Philippians to become one and stay united. The phrase "if any" four times:

  1. If any encouragement
  2. If any comfort
  3. If any sharing
  4. If any tenderness and compassion
..... "Then have the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind" (2:1-2). This is such a powerful statement. Philippi, a church body that is mature, is reminded by Paul that oneness and unity is of the utmost importance. I've never been a part of a church that has gone through a 'split' before. I've known people who have been in that situation, and it's depressing. Even in everyday relationships- we, being the church and body of Christ, must make unity a high priority in our lives. Paul goes on to urge the Philippians (and us!) to ensure we're not doing anything out of selfishness or vanity, but that we put others above ourselves and seek to address the needs of others. What a high calling we have to live selfless instead of selfish lives. Our world is so full of selfishness it's almost sickening sometimes. Money, relationships, drug use, sexual immorality and adultery, material things, friendships, work, etc etc etc.... selfishness permeates the American culture and the concept of the American dream. We are in constant battle with satan fighting against a world which prioritizes fulfilling a selfish soul. As Paul encouraged the Philippian church- let us be reminded today what our priorities should be as disciples of Christ: Christian unity and selflessness. 

If anything... be united & be selfless.

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