Paul’s letter to the Philippians is an amazing letter.
It is amazing because of how it was written. Paul was a prisoner writing to free people. He used his incarceration to encourage the people of Philippi. Scholars call this the “Epistle of Joy.” It really is amazing, isn’t it? The man under house arrest and often in chains wrote an encouraging letter to the church.
It is amazing because of the goal of the letter. Paul wanted the people of Philippi to live for Christ in such a way that they would “shine like stars in the universe” (Philippians 2:15). Paul wanted them to live Godly lives in an ungodly world. Paul described their generation as “a crooked and depraved generation” (Philippians 2:15).
This is the really amazing part of the letter: Paul gave them a way to make it happen. Paul knew that they really could live differently as they took on the mind or attitude of Christ (Philippians 2:5).
Paul wanted them to follow the example of Christ who humbled himself and gave Himself as the sacrifice for their sin. His willingness to leave the throne above served as an example to them of humility and sacrifice.
This ancient hymn gives us some of the most amazing knowledge of Christ. Christ was preexistent and enjoyed equality with God. He identified with humanity by coming to earth and experiencing the limitations of humans. This great hymn tells us that after the incarnation (His entry into the world in human form) Christ was highly exalted. God gave Him the name that is above every name. The day will come when all created beings will submit to His authority (Philippians 2:5-11).
Paul knew that real change in life comes internally. As we think differently, we will begin to act differently. You can act holy on the outside without being holy on the inside, but you cannot be holy on the inside without it showing on the outside. As we change our way of thinking we will also change our behavior. This is the process of repentance.
The work of Christ is an internal work that has external significance.
Real change comes when we experience repentance and faith, follow the example of Christ, and heed the exhortations of Holy Scripture. Then you will shine like stars in a rebellious and selfish generation.
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2 Responses
The world calls such “light” foolishness. Until they are crushed. The children of such light often side with the world, all too often. It is interesting the challenge we have to be in the world and not of the world, in our business and social walk and still be considered “successful.” There are a few markets where proprietary knowledge or skills make the world need what those children of light who are shining have to offer; in a material sense willing to pay up for the product or service. It is the quality of life we should be living that sets us apart. What a challenge! What a struggle to find our place in the Body; as providers, have the needs of our family met being content, yet ever pursuing: “Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done on earth as it is in Heaven?”
The debate of life is won in the Living: Word and Deed are one! Thanks for the help to make is so!
It is up to us to present the “Good News” in and out of our homes. It is up to our children and spouses/siblings to build on the foundation/structure erected for the Kingdom or abandon/tear down what was entrusted in favor of their own personal “mortal” kingdom. What animal does not mark their territory/feather their bed? Are we not intended to be set apart?
I wonder, who cares or knows? Is this just another voice crying in the wilderness or is there a “fellowship offering?”
Waylon, this was an awesome scripture to preach! The message is so clear… by becoming imitators of Christ Jesus, we do become “shining stars” to others. Thanks for drawing this message out for us!~Ann and Joe