Studies in Philippians(14) Holding Fast the Word of Life Philippians 2:14-16

Last Week Paul is challenging these brethren to shine as lights in the midst of this crooked and perverse generation

2019 Theme Lights in a Dark World Philippians 2:15

Last Week Paul is challenging these brethren to shine as lights in the midst of this crooked and perverse generation We noted that this applies as much today as when it was written Godly attitudes are needed – without complaining or disputing We are to be blameless and harmless – not giving legitimate cause to accuse

Holding fast the word of life (16) Holding fast – to have or hold upon, to hold out towards, to direct upon, to aim at and hit The primary usage is holding firm to something Proverbs 23:23 1 Timothy 6:20, 4:16 – “take heed” “Holding forth”, KJV – another thought, conveyed by our context (we are lights) – Matthew 5:15-16

Holding fast the word of life (16) Holding fast to God’s word: Philippians 1:27 – let you conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, standing fast in one spirit 2 Timothy 4:2 – preach the word 2 Timothy 2:15 – handling it accurately

The word of life – His word gives us life Romans 1:16 Holding fast the word of life (16) The word of life – His word gives us life Romans 1:16 Ephesians 2:4-6 – made alive by His grace John 6:48, “I am the bread of life” John 14:6, “I am the way…the life”

The word of life – His word gives us life Holding fast the word of life (16) The word of life – His word gives us life John 6:63, “The words I have spoke to you are spirit and life” Acts 5:20, speak the words of life John 1:4, In him was life, and the life was the light of men.

The word of light – John 1:4 Holding fast the word of life (16) The word of light – John 1:4 Our text ties together life and light (15-16) Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” John 9:5, 12:46, I am the light of the world 2 Corinthians 4:4, that light is rooted in the gospel

Holding fast the word of life (16) The word of light We are to reflect that light Ephesians 5:8, children of light 1 Thessalonians 5:5, sons of light and of the day John 12:36, sons of light John 8:12, Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

Rejoicing in the Day (16) Paul’s hope was for success – that he might be able to rejoice in the end Paul’s letters were filled with encouragement and a goal of saving souls – new converts AND strengthening the saved

Rejoicing in the Day (16) Consider the following: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 Romans 9:1-3, 10:1 Philippians 1:7, 3:1 2 Corinthians 6:1 – hearts open wide Galatians 4:16 – have I become your enemy? Is this not the motive behind godly conduct? 3 John 4, 2 John 4

Rejoicing in the Day (16) The day of Christ The day of His return When we will all stand in judgment- 2 Corinthians 5:10, Romans 14:10-12 Are we preparing for that day? 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 2 Peter 3:10ff

Shining as lights (14-15) That I have not run in vain Again this is about saving souls Paul doesn’t want anyone to be lost That was why he followed up on his brethren BUT, when brethren drifted away – he took it personally (grieved by it) EVEN if it is not your fault, you still grieve – 1 Corinthians 3:12-15

Shining as lights (14-15) That I have not run in vain 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy. 2 Corinthians 1:13-14, you are our boast in the day of the Lord Jesus

Holding Fast the Word of Life Phil. 2:14-16 Are you faithfully hold fast to His word? Holding Fast the Word of Life Phil. 2:14-16