Broadcast Word: Lesson 30

Quintessential Strength

Strength is measured in different ways depending on its context.  Strength can be measured in brute force, strength as in stamina, strength as in mental toughness, and so on.  St. Paul reminded the Philippians to stand firm (4:1).  The final chapter of this book is divided into several sections.

Read Balance of Chapter Four

• Church work is taxing and sometimes disagreements occur. That’s natural human nature. But when disagreements continue without resolution, trouble follows. We are told that two Philippi women (Euodia and Syntyche) were in some sort of disagreement. Paul requested that these women agree with each other in the Lord. What do you think the phrase “in the Lord,” means here? (ASV uses “same mind”)
• Paul is very quick to thank those women for their work as they labored for the Lord. He also mentions Clement and others who also labored for the sake of Christ. What does Paul remind us about their reward?
• Verse four and following contains a series of reminders for all of us as workers in the harvest. Let’s take a look at some of them as we consider how they impact different factions that may arise in the church.

• Paul reminds his fellow workers to emulate him. What are some of the characteristics listed in verses 8-9?
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• Remember our word, “strength?” Perhaps now we have a better understanding of a king of strength that is necessary in the Kingdom’s work. How would you characterize this kind of strength as fellow workers (yokefellows)?
• Verse ten begins Paul’s statement of thanks for all their prayers and gifts. Remember, their pastor, Epaphroditus, traveled to Rome to comfort Paul in his situation. Why does verse ten sound like the church had forgotten about its founder until now? Does it mean that they weren’t tuned into what Paul was doing prior to now or perhaps a change of heart?
• This section (verse ten and following) is particularly helpful for us today. It reminds us that we belong to God and God is the owner of all things. In some cases, we may have abundance then again, may be left wanting. What does Paul remind us about either situation?
• Verse thirteen is one that needs to be committed to memory. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
• Paul commends the church for sharing in his troubles. From verses 14-19, list the things that the Philippian church did for Paul?
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Quintessential Strength! Who or what is it?

Remember, God uses his people to provide comfort, encouragement, financial support, and all other types of support when others are in need.  Because that’s the conduit between the Christ who is strength and those in need.

This is the final lesson in this series The Broadcast Word – The Seed Scattered: The Beginnings of the Christian Church. Beginning with Pentecost, we have seen how the Holy Spirit has enabled and empowered individuals and groups to tell the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Messiah of the world. Missionary teams were established in spite of many trials.  The Spirit touched the hearts of additional individuals throughout the post resurrection period to attend to new church plants made throughout Asia Minor and Europe. Yes, the Word was preached and the Seed planted, then watered by those who followed.  This study was written and taught in 2001 and is now made available on my website.  May God continue to bless you in your study of His Word.

Connected in Him, I stand

GHR