Church Unity & Peace

Does Paul love the church of God in Philippi?

Dear friends, I love you and long to see you. Please keep on being faithful to the Lord. You are my pride and joy [joy and crown]. (Philippians 4:1 CEV)

Can even a wonderful church have some squabbles? What was Paul’s plea to two women?

I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. (Philippians 4:2 NASB)

Did he ask others to help resolve the squabble? Were their names already in the book of life?

Yes, and I’m also asking you, loyal friend, to help these women who have struggled together with me in the ministry of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my coworkers whose names are in the scroll of life. (Philippians 4:3 CEB)

What is our principle cause for rejoicing?

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. (Philippians 4:4 ESV)

Rather than a church fight what should we be known for?

Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. (Philippians 4:5 HCSB)

How should we handle misunderstandings?

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication [petition] with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (Philippians 4:6 KJV)

What happens when we let go of grievances and let God take care of things?

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7 NASB)

What are the best things to think about all day long?

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:8 NIV)

Should a church leader be an example?

The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:9 NKJV)

A Generous Church

Was Paul grateful to this church?

How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. (Philippians 4:10 NLT)

Is this one of life’s greatest lessons?

Not that I speak because of lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content in it. I know how to be humbled, and I also know how to abound. In everything and in all things I have learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in need. (Philippians 4:11-12 WEB)

How can we endure?

I can endure all these things through the power of the one who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13 CEB)

Did they help Paul?

It was good of you to help me when I was having such a hard time. (Philippians 4:14 CEV)

How generous was the church of God in Philippi?

And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. (Philippians 4:15 ESV)

Did they give offerings to his missionary needs elsewhere?

For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times. (Philippians 4:16 HCSB)

What is a gift in reality?

Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. (Philippians 4:17 KJV)

How grateful was Paul for their kindness?

But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. (Philippians 4:18 NASB)

Does God supply?

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NIV)

Who does Paul praise?

Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Philippians 4:20 NKJV)

Are all Christians saints?

Give my greetings to each of God’s holy people [saints] —all who belong to Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you their greetings. And all the rest of God’s people [saints] send you greetings, too, especially those in Caesar’s household. (Philippians 4:21-22 NLT)

Do we have a spirit?

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. (Philippians 4:23 ESV)

The church of God at Philippi was Paul’s joy and crown. Even the most wonderful of churches can have some disputes like that between two great servants. What should we be thinking of? Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy. Do we occupy our minds with positive or negative thoughts? You decide!