link to video on Right Now Media
https://www.rightnowmedia.org/Content/Series/368582
- Main Idea: When we follow the call to joyful sacrifice, we can find contentemnt in any cirecumstance and thus live generously.
In verses 10-14, Paul discuses
contentment. Ask yourself if you have great needs, or are you
discontented because you don't have what you want? We must learn to
rely on God's promises and Christ's power to help us be content. If
we always want more, we need to ask God to remove that desire and
teach us contentment in every circumstance. He will supply all our
needs, but in a way that he knows is best for for us.
People can often make Philippians 4:13
about themselves. But if we know anything about Philippians, it's
that Paul is not after personal gain. He advocates for putting others
first, for seeing our lives as garbage compared to knowing Jesus, and
to being content. This is one of the most-quoted verses in the Bible.
We often see it recited before sports games or captioned on a social
media post. But without its context, we can make the verse out to
mean that Jesus is a spiritual steroid shot that empowers people to
make game-winning goals or climb the corporate ladder. The power we
receive from our our belief in and relationship with Christ is
sufficient to do to his will and to face the challenges that
arise from our commitment to doing it. He does not grant us
superhuman ability to accomplish anything we can can imagine without
regard to his interests. As we struggle for the faith will will face
troubles, pressures, and trials. As they come, we must ask Christ to
strengthen us.
In verse 17, Paul is making it clear
that his primary desire is for the Philippians to gain the benefits
that come with being generous – maturity, joy, and trust in god. In
other words, he's more concerned about the Philippians than himself.
As the Philippians share in Paul's suffering, Paul's equally invested
in them. Think about what stands out to you about Paul's attitude in
this verse. Consider what it could look like to receive gifts with a
similar attitude as Paul?
Think about people in your life who
aren't Christians. Write their names down and commit to praying for
them this week. Ask God for opportunities to talk about Jesus with
them.
- Why do you think contentment can be so tough for us?
- Jo explained the significance of Paul mentioning Cesar's household in the final lines of this letter. He's reminding the Philippians once more that Jesus is Lord – not Caesar. God is bringing people into his family and Caesar can't stop him. What's hopeful for you about the fat that Jesus is Lord and that God can move despite human authorities?
- What are some ways you've heard people use Philippians 4:13?
- In what ways could Philippians 4:13 offer encouragement for you as you pursue contentment in all circumstances?
- The word Paul uses in verse 14 that's translated “to share in my troubles, is sygkoinoneo. It implies a partnership with someone, often over a period of time. The Philippians partnered with Paul in his mission to spread the gospel from the beginning. What does it show about the Philippians that they not only gave, but also persisted in giving to Paul?
- What about the Roman's conversions offers you hope for those you know who aren't following Jesus?
