Paul:
Joyful Perspective Comes with Time!
Philippians 2:12-18
Philippians 1 – single mind
Philippians 2 – an exhortation to have a submissive mind (others first), followed by four examples. Apostle Paul uses his own life as the second example to the Philippian believers. From Paul’s example of handling stress we learn:
A. Getting saved is not the end of the road for the believer, but the beginning of the process of sanctification – v. 12.
B. Progress in personal sanctification will contribute to the corporate unity – v. 12.
C. God initiates and enables our sanctification – v. 13.
II. Our growth in Christ requires effort on our part – vv. 14-16.
A. How to ensure growth:
i. without complaining or arguing – v. 14.
ii. By holding out the message of the Gospel – v. 16
B. Why we must grow:
i. In order to become blameless and pure w/o blemish
ii. Because we live in a corrupted world
iii. Because our holy conduct enables us to shine His light
III. Joyful disposition will expedite our growth - vv. 17-18.
A. On a personal level, joy comes from gaining a heavenly perspective of my earthly stress – v. 17.
B. On a corporate level, joy is sustained by interacting with fellow believers – v. 18.
Paul’s joy in sufferings is a result of a faith that has grown in the face of adversity.