Philippians
1 – 2
Verse 1:18 tends to justify all churches:
So what do we do then? Listen. What
matters is that in every way, regardless of the motives—whether
pure or shady—the great story of the Anointed is a cause for joy. I will
continue to rejoice
We tend to bash those who preach the Gospel with unsavory
tactics. For example we look at prosperity preachers as not preaching the
Gospel with pure intentions. See they get people to give based on those givers
receiving great wealth. Most never prosper as promised, other than the pastor.
If that pastor is preaching the Gospel of salvation correctly, then let them
go. Many will be saved because of their dynamic oratory skills.
Verses 2:3 & 4 remind us not to follow our own agendas:
3 Don’t let
selfishness and prideful agendas take over. Embrace true humility, and lift
your heads to extend love to others. 4 Get beyond
yourselves and protecting your own interests; be sincere, and
secure your neighbors’ interests first.
Interesting we see Paul almost contradicting himself again.
One chapter we read it’s ok if some preach the Gospel do so with selfish
motives, yet here is says don’t let those emotions take you over. The point is
if someone gets caught up with prideful and selfish ambitions, yet still
preaches the Gospel our job is not to condemn. At the same time Paul is warning
us not to personally be consumed with those desires. The key is being like
Jesus and set aside your ambitions for the ambitions of others.
Imagine if the world operated this way!!
Verses 2:14 & 15 command us to stop internal conflicts:
14 Do all
things without complaining or bickering with each other, 15 so
you will be found innocent and blameless; you are God’s
children called to live without a single stain on your reputations among this
perverted and crooked generation. Shine like stars across the land.
What people see on the outside is very important since the
enemy will want many to find something conflicting with the message. If there
is internal bickering, this could crush a new believer’s faith. They receive a
message of salvation that says one thing and then the body of the Church is
doing something different. This is why conflicts need to be addressed, but not childishly
handled.
The second part is key since we are called to have faith
like a child, but not get sucked into childish acts of pride and selfishness.
Ever watch two children who want the same thing, it can get downright ugly in
the struggle for number 1. Think about children as the ultimate narcissist, yet
God’s children are different, they share!!
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