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"Fellowship of the Spirit..."

Text: Philippians 2:1

THE PHILIPPIAN CHURCH

The closest church to the Apostle Paul was arguably the Philippian Church. In his epistle to the Philippians Paul addressed the brethren there very affectionately. It was the Church that had a strong sense of rapport with him.

THE HINT OF TROUBLE IN THE CHURCHES

Every church would face challenges. Here is a brief overview of some of the problems that challenged the churches: –

1. Romans

Potential conflict between the Jews and Gentile believers.

2. Corinthians

The problem of carnality led to the danger of schism in the Church.

3. Galatians and Colossians

There was a threat from false teachers (especially the Judaizers).

WHAT ABOUT THE PHILIPPIAN CHURCH

The Philippians were also under threat of losing their special sense of unity. Paul wrote to instruct and encourage the brethren to strive to keep this special sense of oneness in the Church.

“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ,
if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit,
if any affection and mercy, fulfil my joy by being like-minded,
having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit,
but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.”
Philippians 2:1-3

1. Oneness was obviously in mind

a) Likeminded

b) Having the same love

c) Being of one accord

d) Of one mind

2. Every means must be employed to achieve this special sense of oneness

a) Consolation in Christ (Chris the Lord was mentioned)

b) Comfort of love

c) Fellowship of the Spirit (The Spirit of God was mentioned too)

d) Affection and mercy

e) Lowliness of mind