In Philippians 1:3-5, Paul thanks God for the Philippians’ partnership in the Gospel. They were his teammates, his co-workers in the work of the Gospel actively involved in the advance of the Gospel. What does it mean to be part of "the fellowship in the Gospel"? Can a church claim to enjoy this partnership today? I believe it can, and the rest of the book of Philippians identifies this church.
A church is actively partnering in the Gospel when they are unified in their own ministry.
- This church stands shoulder to shoulder, helping one another, as they press toward one goal (1:27–30; 4:1–3). Unlike a giant, amorphous mob, a local church should be unified in its goal: the advance of the Gospel for God's glory. This includes both the spread of the Gospel to those who have not heard it as well as relentlessly pressing to be more obedient themselves to Christ in every way.
- This church demonstrates a selfless attitude of concern for others like Jesus Christ demonstrated by coming to earth to die (2:1–5). Instead of living in a self-centered miniature universe, this church is involved in one another's lives with Christlike care and concern.
- This church finds joy sharing in one another’s spiritual lives (2:17–18). Whether hardship or victory, they give comfort or share in the joy of one another's progress in the Gospel.
- This church is mature both in its actions and its thinking (3:15). This church does not merely do the "right thing"; it is mature in its thinking, pleasing God in every area.
A church is actively partnering in the gospel when they are unified in support of other Gospel ministers.
- This church has a special place in the hearts of Gospel ministers because it shares in their ministry both through hardship and blessing (1:7–8). They have encouraged the hearts of many by their faithfulness and care. They endear themselves to many Gospel ministers because of their displays of Christian love.
- This church is encouraged to be more bold by the testimony of Gospel ministers (1:14). Through others' accounts of the Gospel's advance, they gain a renewed determination to press forward in their own community.
- This church encourages and produces Gospel ministers (2:20–30). This church is a blessing to Gospel ministers by their testimony and hospitality. They encourage their own to move out and advance the Gospel. They are looking to expand their church's influence and ministry.
- This church shares in the Gospel ministry in a monetary way (4:10–19). They give selflessly, quietly, and repeatedly to the cause of Christ and his servants. They realize they are actually giving to God by giving to his servants and they trust God to supply any need that might result.
Comments