Prayer for our Brethren
Intro
In today’s lesson, Paul is writing to the church in Philippi. He is probably writing from Rome, since he is currently imprisoned, awaiting execution.
The church at Philippi held a special place in Paul’s heart, as it was the first church he planted in Europe.
Acts 16:9-10
'And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. '
Paul expresses Joy throughout the entire book of Philippians. He is encouraging them, and showing that he remains a joyful servant of Christ, even through his current trials.
Today’s lesson is a great example of how we should pray for and support our fellow believers.
Shared Faith
Philippians 1:1-2
'Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. '
Paul was with Timothy and Rome, so he mentions him in his greeting. When he formed the church in Philippi, Silas, Timothy, and Luke were with him, so they had a special relationship with Timothy as well as Paul.
Paul calls them saints in Christ Jesus. Calling people saints in the New Testament designates them as people of God, much like the term Israel did in the Old Testament.
He calls himself a servant of Christ Jesus. Isaiah 53 described the coming Messiah as a suffering servant. Paul saw his suffering as a point of pride, as it showed that he was following in the footsteps of Jesus.
Can any of you think of a situation where you were having a tough time, but felt at peace? What was it that made you feel that way?
Thankful Faith
Philippians 1:3-8
' I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. '
I want to share a story now of the effect Joy can have on others.
Massena, one of Napoleon’s generals, suddenly appeared with eighteen thousand men before an Austrian town which had no means of defense. The town council had nearly decided to surrender when the old dean of the church reminded them that it was Easter and begged them to hold services as usual and to leave the trouble in God's hands. This they did; and the French hearing the church bells ringing joyfully concluded that an Austrian army had come to relieve the place and quickly broke camp. Before the bells ceased ringing, all the Frenchmen had vanished.
When we show joy in our lives, through faith, this joy has an effect on others. It has the ability to shut down other’s despair. Choosing joy in your own life has an affect as well. God promises us joy, so we only have to choose it to receive it.
Is there anyone in your life that arouses a sense of gratitude to God for them? How comfortable would you be to say to such a person, When I think of you, I give thanks to God for you?
Growing Faith
Philippians 1:9-11
'And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. '
Paul prays that the church at Philippi’s love would abound, but he also put a qualifier on it. He says with knowledge and discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent.
A lot of times today, we see churches and Christians excuse morally reprehensible behavior through the guise of love. If we truly love others, wouldn’t we want to call out their sin so that they can repent?
Galatians 6:1
'Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. '
We are to call out sin, but with a spirit of gentleness. You don’t have to stop loving the sinner.
Can you describe ways your faith is stronger now than earlier in your life? What contributed to that growth? What hindered it?
Conclusion
I think there are several things we can take away from Philippians today.
Choose Joy
How we should pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ
Thankfulness for them
With joy in our heart
For spiritual growth
Tell others we are thankful for them
