2. Paul & The Philippian Church
He planted the church Partners in his evangelistic work Concern for their faith while he’s in prison

3. Sources of Danger to Faith
Outside opposition
Stated matter of factly
“Same conflict you saw in me…hear in me” (see Acts 16)
Disruption (v. 17)
Angry response to impact of God’s work (v. 19)
Misinformation (v. 21)
Community rejection (v. 22)
Physical assault (v. 23)
Incarceration (v. 24)
Run out of town (vv )

4. Sources of Danger to Faith
Conflicts within
Hints of internal conflict (Phil. 2):
Possible divisions (v. 2)
Motivated by self-interest (vv. 3-4)
Grumbling and disputing (v. 14)

5. Modern Opposition and Conflict?
Gay rights Women’s roles Science vs Faith Instrumental Music Perceptions of the Church Misinformation (Denominationalism)

6. Is there a way for the church to last and live providing joy for those who built it?

7. Short answer: “with one mind striving together…not alarmed by opponents”
Church unity and Joy
Do things that unite: same mind, love, spirit, purpose
Avoid self-centered actions
Have Jesus’ humility

8. Conduct Yourselves…Worthy
1:27
2:12
Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm…
So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence…,

9. “Just as you have obeyed…work out your salvation…”
Not effect salvation – already saved “accomplish” or “work at” Obey what has just been said

10. “God who is at work in you”
“God is the one working in you”
“You” is plural
God working in/among the church?
God working within individual Christians?
Context is Christians working together points to God working in/among the church.
“to will and to work” points to the purpose or result of God working in the church

13. Building Together Stand firm in the faith
Strive together for the Gospel
Work humbly
Have joy