Philippians 1
Unity in an Unpredictable World
September 1, 2015
Philippians 1:27-28a NIV
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. “
v. 27a – “Whatever happens”
Life is unpredictable and full of pressures.
Here, Paul talks about the two types of pressure we all face, internal pressures and pressures from those who oppose us.
v.27 – “Stand firm in one Spirit.”
Unity is proof the Holy Spirit is working in a group of people.
Story of my dad making my brother and I hug after we fought
We’re either looking for a fight or we’re looking for the Holy Spirit, but we can’t have both.
There are several misunderstandings about unity.
Unity does not mean we always agree.
Wisdom says to choose your battles carefully.
Our tribe says to win every debate, regardless of the relational costs.
Unity means we value the relationship more than winning an argument.
Rules of Engagement (Military)
When we’re right, we should be gracious.
Gloating is not a fruit of the Spirit. 😊
When we’re wrong, we should ask for forgiveness.
“You’re right, and I’m wrong. Please forgive me.”
We should always be gentle.
Psalms 55:21 NIV
His speech is smooth as butter; yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords.
The Table:
John 13:35 MSG
"Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. 35 This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples — when they see the love you have for each other."
