Philippians 4:1 | Resources
Discussion Questions
Who comes to mind when you think of your “dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters”?
What do you think Paul meant when he called them his “joy and crown”?
How are you doing “standing firm in the Lord” today?
What were your thoughts or reactions to some of the new partnerships we shared with you today in our service?
What does it look like for you individually or our small group to help/be involved/ support these new partnership efforts?
In light of our text/sermon, what would it look like to obey?
Memory Verse
“So then, my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends.” Philippians 4:1 (CSB)
Devotional
An interesting part of many of Paul’s epistles are the introductions and greetings at the beginning. They sometimes provide us with a deeper view into his heart, as in Philippians 4:1 when he addresses the Philippian church as those “whom I love and long for” and “my joy and my crown.”
Let’s be honest: for some of us, church isn’t always easy. Relationships that should be natural feel anything but. Maybe we put ourselves out there and our efforts aren’t reciprocated. Maybe we even feel rejection or lack of acceptance in a place where everyone is supposed to belong. All Christians, but especially those of us who have felt disappointment at church experiences, can learn a lot from how Paul views this local body of believers. His words specifically illustrate relational intimacy, spiritual supremacy and unbounded proximity.
Relational intimacy is clear with Paul’s word choice – “love,” “long for,” and “beloved.” Further reading of Paul’s epistles also shows a mentality that is far from just “image management.” He doesn’t pretend that he is okay when he isn’t, sometimes even lamenting the circumstances he is facing. He also isn’t afraid to call out or challenge those in need of correction, including two individuals in verse 4:2 immediately after these greetings. He seems comfortable with messy interactions like a physical family would have.
Spiritual supremacy is indicated by the phrase “my brothers.” Being a Christfollower was supreme for Paul in his relational efforts. Think of some of the criteria that we use in determining who we seek to be in fellowship with – similar stage of life, common interests, compatible personalities. Those aren’t inherently bad, but Paul focuses on the most important thing we have in common.
Unbounded proximity is apparent in the background of Paul’s travels. He visited Philippi at least three times on his missionary journeys but was certainly not “living life” with the Philippians on a regular basis. However, he didn’t let proximity or convenience hinder his loving and longing for them.
How do you stack up in those areas? What viewpoints or heart attitudes may need change in order to experience the fullness of Christ’s body?