“Let this mind be in you…” (Philippians 2:5) Paul is speaking to believers. He is awaiting trial and the Philippians have sent him money to help with his expenses while he is in Rome. Philippi is the first church (Acts 16:11-40) Paul planted on European soil. He sends this letter some ten years later.
It’s apparent at the end of chapter 1 of Philippians that the believers there are suffering for Christ the same way that Paul had suffered. Paul points out to them that he is still suffering but that the suffering furthers the gospel. Then he goes on to explain how his boldness has caused others to be even more bold and speak the word fearlessly.
The very first part of chapter 2 Paul is both encouraging and consoling them. Pleading the cause of Christ was difficult during those times. It could be disheartening. These current times aren’t as bad as back then in this country. Other countries; though, particularly those in the Middle East, are persecuting and killing Christians without prosecution. As time continues it’s getting harder to spread the gospel even on American soil. Paul’s letter becomes even more important for this day and age.
Think of the ones who have ‘soldiered on’ and carried the message of Christ even in the worst of circumstances. Then think of Paul. He says to be like-minded; that is, to have the attitude of Christ. Christ, who had all the power of God, humbled himself and became obedient to the plan. The plan was of salvation and redemption. He came to save the world and died to redeem the sinner. He arose so that all that believe will be partakers of the inheritance (Colossians 1:12). As joint-heirs (Romans 8:17) Jesus, while on this earth, prayed that believers be with him (John 17:24-26). It’s a beautiful prayer which begins at verse 1.
“Let this mind be in you…”--have the attitude of Christ. Encourage each other, be humble, and think of others. Most of all, be obedient.
It’s apparent at the end of chapter 1 of Philippians that the believers there are suffering for Christ the same way that Paul had suffered. Paul points out to them that he is still suffering but that the suffering furthers the gospel. Then he goes on to explain how his boldness has caused others to be even more bold and speak the word fearlessly.
The very first part of chapter 2 Paul is both encouraging and consoling them. Pleading the cause of Christ was difficult during those times. It could be disheartening. These current times aren’t as bad as back then in this country. Other countries; though, particularly those in the Middle East, are persecuting and killing Christians without prosecution. As time continues it’s getting harder to spread the gospel even on American soil. Paul’s letter becomes even more important for this day and age.
Think of the ones who have ‘soldiered on’ and carried the message of Christ even in the worst of circumstances. Then think of Paul. He says to be like-minded; that is, to have the attitude of Christ. Christ, who had all the power of God, humbled himself and became obedient to the plan. The plan was of salvation and redemption. He came to save the world and died to redeem the sinner. He arose so that all that believe will be partakers of the inheritance (Colossians 1:12). As joint-heirs (Romans 8:17) Jesus, while on this earth, prayed that believers be with him (John 17:24-26). It’s a beautiful prayer which begins at verse 1.
“Let this mind be in you…”--have the attitude of Christ. Encourage each other, be humble, and think of others. Most of all, be obedient.
