leadership from Philippians – Christopher L. Scott

This post examines the fourth explanation under Paul’s heading in Phil 1:27, “Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News” (NLT). After this Paul told the Philippians to suffer in their faith (1:28-30), to focus on others (2:1-4), and to have the same attitude as Christ (2:5-11). Now, as the fourth explanation of Phil 1:27, Paul is encouraging believers to shine brightly like stars in the universe (Phil 2:12-18).

Leaders Shine Brightly for Christ in (Philippians 2:12-18)

Photo Credit: Nicolas Raymond

I. AN INTRODUCTION TO PHILIPPIANS 2:12-18

A. An Outline

A brief outline of this passage could be seen in this way:

Phil 1:27

Phil 1:28-30
Phil 2:1-4
Phil 2:5-11
Phil 2:12-18
- Phil 2:12-16
  - Phil 2:17-18 (Paul)
  - Phil 2:19-24 (Timothy)
  - Phil 2:25-30 (Epaphroditus)

B. A Brief Joke Related to the Topic

Today’s post looks at Paul’s life for Christ and passion for ministry in Philippians 1:19-26. Previous posts in these series have been:

“Paul Preaching at the Ruins” by Giovanni Paolo Panini (1692-1765)

¹⁹For I know this: it will lead to my deliverance through your prayer and support of Christ Jesus’ Spirit. ²⁰Accoring to my eager expectation and hope, I want to be disgraced in nothing, but rather always in public and now in my body Christ is exalted, whether through life or through death. ²¹For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. ²²But if living in body is fruitful work for me, then I do not know which I will choose. ²³For, you see, at this present time I am distressed between the two, because I want to leave be with Christ, for it is much better to be with Christ. ²⁴But, it is necessary to remain alive for you. ²⁵I know, since I am convinced of this, that I will remain and stay with you all in your progress and joy in the faith. ²⁶Therefore, the reason for your boasting will abound in Christ Jesus because of my return back to you. (Phil 1:19-26)

I. PAUL WOULD NEVER BE ASHAMED BECAUSE HE LIVED FOR CHRIST (1:19-21).