Philippians: True Unity in Christ

We all know relationships can be tricky. Even we as Christians can struggle to get along. The early church was no different. Paul wrote the book of Philippians to the church at Philippi, who had some people who could not agree with each other. Instead of opening with an in-your-face confrontation about the issue, Paul spends much of his letter encouraging the church. Throughout the letter, Paul explains why Christians can get along: because they are united by the good news of Jesus. In chapter 1, Paul tells the Philippians he longs for them to live their lives together in a way that is “worthy of the gospel of Christ” (verse 27). In the beginning of chapter 2, Paul explains how the church’s unity in Christ can help them look out for the needs and concerns of others—just like Jesus, who showed the highest level of humility for our salvation. In the final chapter, Paul gets to the heart of the matter: as believers in Jesus, the Philippians should get along with each other (Philippians 4:2-3). Paul goes on to urge them not to worry but to focus on the truth and to find rest, hope, and unity in Jesus. Even when our relationships with other Christians become challenging, Philippians reminds us we always can find true unity around the gospel of Jesus Christ. • Phil Cox • In Philippians 1:27 and 2:1-2, Paul urges Christians to be united because of the gospel of Jesus. Are there brothers or sisters in Christ you struggle to get along with? If you’re not sure what a healthy, gospel- centered relationship with these people would look like, who are trusted Christians in your life—such as pastors, counselors, parents, or teachers—who could help you figure out the next steps? If, then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Philippians 2:1-2 (CSB)

Read Verses:

Proverbs 15:1, 18, 28; Romans 12:19; 1 Peter 2:23