Read: Philippians 4:1-7

[1] Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

Question and Reflection: When Paul challenges these believers to stand firm, in the Lord, how might this idea connect back to verses Philippians 3:18-19?

Application: In our day and time, what does it look like to ‘stand firm in the Lord’?

Exhortation, Encouragement, and Prayer

[2] I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. [3] Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Question and Reflection: What is Paul getting at when he commands these two women to ‘agree in the Lord’? How does it connect back to Philippians 2:1-11?

Application: We don’t know exactly what was causing this division between these ladies but we do know Paul invites a mediator into their disagreement. Why might it be important to bring in a 3rd party when there is conflict between individuals? How does this connect back to Matthew 18:15-20?

[4] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

Notice here, the command, to rejoice always. Not just in the mountain top experiences but in the valley of the shadow of death, as well. Why? Because God is just as worthy of praise in the hard as He is in the good. His worthiness isn’t based on our circumstances, it’s based on His character.

Question and Reflection: Paul closes this letter with an emphasis on rejoicing. As Paul thinks about those who have labored by his side and whose names are written in the Book of Life, it causes him to rejoice, always.

Application: Who are those fellow Believers in your life that cause you to rejoice? Take some time to thank God for them and if you’re able, let them know you’re grateful for their impact on your life.

Interested in the Book of Life check out these cross references: Exodus 32:33, Psalm 69:28, Revelation 3:5, 20:12, 15, 21:27

[5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Questions and Reflection: What does it mean to be reasonable? One writer, said, ‘it’s seeking what is best for everyone and not just for oneself.’ (ESV Study Bible, pg.1584) Another possible translation is gentleness. How might being reasonable or gentle help maintain unity in the life of the church?

For Paul, Jesus’ resurrection and return (the Lord is at hand) is the foundation for Christian living and relationships. So, what might be the connection between the Lord being at hand and the challenge to be gentle and reasonable?

Or, how might Jesus’ return fuel the command, not to be anxious about anything?

Application: Why is prayer so important when we do get anxious? How does prayer help fight anxiety? Lastly, how does prayer lead to the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding?

[7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

For Paul, peace isn’t the absence of suffering or hardship it’s the presence of His Savior, that leads to hope.

Questions and Reflection: Take some time, and read John 14:15-31. What is the relationship between the Person and Role of the Holy Spirit , and Believers walking in peace? Reflect on how peace with God, leads to walking in peace with others.

Applications: How does prayer and the peace of God, guard your hearts and minds in Christ? And, why, are these spiritual realities (that are yours in Christ) so important in pursuing unity and mission together in the life of the church?

Conclusion: What are you anxious about? What areas of your life do you feel like there is chaos and conflict? Are there spaces in your life, where you don’t have peace that surpasses all understanding? Are you finding it hard to rejoice in all things, all of the time? And, does that call feel especially hard right now?

What should we do? It sounds cliche, but we look to Christ. Simple but not always easy. End your time together rereading the Hymn of Christ found in Philippians 2:1-11. It is the central passage of Philippians and quite honestly it should be a central passage for every Believer. Mediate on these verses and allow them to fuel humility, unity, love and living for the glory of God.

Join us next week, as Pastor Brent preaches through these verses! If you took time, to go through them, you’ll be more than ready! God bless you all!