We have already seen how we are to ‘work out’ our salvation through the practice of spiritual disciplines or exercises. It is in that context that Paul speaks of God’s will being worked in us for His glory. As we ‘work out’ our faith, God will do a work in us so that He can…
Just as physical exercise is necessary for a healthy body, spiritual exercise is necessary for a healthy spirit. Paul encourages the church at Philippi to ‘work out’ their salvation. He also mentions to engage in spiritual exercise with ‘fear and trembling’ This means to not relax in this exercise. It means to not grow lazy,…
To experience the joy of being of one mind and of being in one accord, it comes from having the mind of Christ. To have the mind of Christ is to have the attitude that Christ exhibited. Attitude is everything. Your attitude is similar to your outlook on life. It is how you look at…
The joy of one mind involves living with one mind and with humility. Verses 3-4 of Philippians 2 says, “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for…
Many people at the start of a new year will pick one word that they focus on for that year. I am not accustomed to doing that myself every year, however, this year there are two words that I am focusing on and praying for in my life. Those words are: holiness and wisdom. …
1 Peter 4:10 says, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” Every person that is born is given by the sovereignty of God certain talents and passions. Every born-again believer is given certain spiritual gifts to be used…
In chapter one of Philippians we learned of the joy of growing together and the joy of the Gospel. This joy increases and develops as we strive to be right with God and right with each other. Right relationships are the key to joyful Christian living. As such relationships are developed there is great joy…
When the angels appeared to the shepherds announcing the birth of Jesus it was said, “Behold I bring you tidings of great joy.” The Gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ. It encompasses the entirety of God’s Word. It is a joyous Gospel. There is no greater joy found than in knowing Jesus. Paul…
1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” A steward is one who cares for that which belongs to someone else. It must be understood that everything we have is a gift from God. We own nothing. It all belongs to Him. Therefore, we are stewards of…
The book of Philippians was written around A.D. 61 or 62 by the Apostle Paul under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Philippians is a letter written to the church in Philippi during the time Paul was imprisoned in Rome. Paul had visited Philippi on his second missionary journey. While there, many trusted in Christ…
Pastor Chris Noland 