Complaining and Arguing

How?

How can I live out verse 14: "Do everything without complaining or arguing" (NIV)?

I want to live at peace with others.

That isn't always easy. In fact, it's not always possible.

Does context provide an answer to my concern? Check out verses 12-16.

Paul specifically refers to the work of the Philippian church as they "hold out the word of life."

That makes sense. Arguing and complaining about sharing the saving story of Jesus is just plain silly.

Philippians 2:4

"Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others" (NIV).

It is important that I examine my motives. Do I truly look to the intereests of others? Or do I pretend so I can feel better about my inherent selfishness?

Philippians 2:3

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves (NIV).

Do you live this out, Dear Reader? Do I?

Foundation of a Strong Congregation

The Bible is so practical.

Contemporary leadership writing emphasizes the importance of creating and maintaining an organizational vision and mission to keep people moving in the same direction and generating institutional momentum.

In 2:1-2, Paul asks the members of the church at Philippi to do this very thing.

One of the most common criticisms I hear nonChristians level against the Church today is the huge number of denominations.

I don't have a good response to this criticism. They're right.

But an important first step in addressing this issue is applying these two verses to each individual congregation.

I'm fortunate to attend a church which has formalized Paul's guidance and applied the latest organizational research to our leadership and membership structures.

It's the first time I've experienced at a church the kind of unity in purpose that Paul requests. My church is a very special place with an effective outreach.

Outline of Philippians 2

I. Be Humble, Like Christ
II. Timothy and Epaphroditus

Online Showdown

A few years ago, I was in an extended online argument with an arrogant atheist. (Of course, I'm confident his perspective was that he was in an extended argument with an arrogant Christian!)

Ultimately, he put out a challenge: reenact 1 Kings 18 with two piles of sticks. The twist was that he would assume the role of science (lighters and a match) while I would serve on behalf of Jesus through prayer alone.

I said yes to the challenge, and my opponent abruptly left that message board.

We are called to suffer for Christ, even today, as we are laughed at for our faith. But as Paul makes clear in verses 28-30, our continuing courage will be a powerful witness.

Dear Reader, how can you stand up for Christ today?

Church Unity?

Paul teaches, in verses 27-28, that unity within the Philippian church will serve as a sign to outsiders that Christians are right and non-Christians are wrong.

No wonder Christians have such a poor public outreach to non-Christians in today's world.