Salvation is God’s work within the body of the church from start to finish. The Philippians (and us) are to work out what this God-given salvation looks like in practice within the body of Christ and in imitation of Christ’s own humility and obedience.
Philippians 2:12-18, Salvation and Joy Read More »
Paul’s use of this hymn is not simply theological or metaphysical, but social. If Jesus relinquished his divine privileges, then we should give up our social privileges. If Jesus became the servant of all and suffered death, then we also should become the servant of others and put to death whatever stands in the way.
Philippians 2:5-11, The Christological Hymn Read More »
The secret to achieving unity is humility. If we count others better than ourselves and put the interests of others above our own, then unity and fellowship will naturally result.
Philippians 2:1-4, Unity through Humility Read More »
These four final verses are the beginning of the substantive discussion of Paul’s letter and serve as Paul’s thesis statement that his audience must live a life worthy of the Gospel.
Philippians 1:27-30, Paul’s Thesis Statement Read More »
In these verses Paul tells us about the three adversities that he faces – Imprisonment, Rivalries, and Death – and how each of these adversities leads to the advancemnet of the Gospel and ultimate rejoicing.
Philippians 1:12-26, Paul’s Circumstances Read More »
As you read this introduction, think about how your own life is characterized by this great work of Jesus and how that work is accomplished in partnership with others. Think about what this work looks like presently in your life.
Philippians 1:1-11, The Introduction Read More »
In one of the last letters Paul wrote before his execution, he rejoices with his first partners in his ministry and reminds them of the person they both work for.
Philippians – Background Read More »
The word Mark uses for “transfiguration” is metamorphoses, the title of Ovid’s poem. In Mark’s use of this term, like his use of the word “gospel” to open his work, he wants us to see that Jesus is Lord and God, not Ceasar.
Epiphany – The Transfiguration, Mark 9:2-13, pt.2 Read More »
The Transfiguration shows us Jesus’ metamorphosis from an itinerant preacher and healer in Galilee into the fullness of his purpose and being as the Messianic Son of God to be crucified in Jerusalem as the ransom for many.
Epiphany – The Transfiguration, Mark 9:2-13 Read More »
In Mark, the problem in the human condition is that we are overcome by those things that seek to pull us into non-existence (i.e. sin). Jesus’s mission is to restore us to the fullness of our creation. His mission is to eliminate and overcome those defects in spirit and body.
Epiphany – Exorcisms and Healings – Mark 1:21-2:12, pt.2 Read More »
