WORKING TOGETHER IN THE LOCAL CHURCH Most congregations troubled at times Church works when we work together! Philippi no exception, 1:15-18 Paul’s appeal/solution, 1:27 Trouble between two women in 4:2 Chapter two the focus of study

IMPORTANCE OF WORKING TOGETHER Stand fast For the faith of the gospel In one spirit, with one mind, striving together World’s greatest work: advancing the Lord’s cause by teaching the gospel

UNITY THROUGH HUMILITY Phil. 2:1-4 Oneness realized through humility Envy, strife begotten by selfish ambition, conceit Appeal: Exhortation in Christ, Comfort of love, Fellowship of Spirit, Tender mercies (v. 1)

Means: Oneness-Like-minded, same love, one accord, one mind (2) Basis: Lowliness-esteem others better than self (3) Action: Helpfulness-Looking out for others Example: Christ (5-11)-Started in the mind, forgot himself (rank, privilege), served, humbled self, obeyed completely, exalted by Father

LESSONS My way/idea is not necessarily the best (“rule or ruin”; “my way or else”). Listen to others’ ideas. Problems begin with undue focus/insistence on self. I am not more important than others (“Big I, little you”). Conflicts come from selfish ambition, conceit.

WHAT IT TAKES “All of self, and none of Thee.” - childish, elementary “Some of self, and some of Thee.” - juvenile “Less of self, and more of Thee.” - “nearly there” “None of self, and all of Thee.” - mature, adult