6 November 2024 Philippians 2:12-18

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Please read the passage before reading the commentary.

Paul seems to have had a special affection for the Christians in Philippi, so much so that if they were not to persevere in their faith in Christ Jesus, he would regard himself as not having worked profitably but in vain.  This demonstrates his affection and the value of his work among them.

Paul sees the possibility of an imminent martyrdom for him as a sacrificial libation, an offering to the Lord.  As such, he urges the Philippians to regard this martyrdom as a good thing and to rejoice in it instead of lamenting it.

Paul praises their obedience and urges them to continue with joy, without any grumbling.

We now live in a post-election time.  Paul exhorts us to live with joy, without grumbling against those who won or against those who lost.  We are children of God without blemish even though we live in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation in this present age.  We are children of the light and must let our light shine for the glory and praise of God.

As Paul prepared to be poured out in sacrifice as a libation, he urged us to share his joy.  It takes faith to do this, to see God’s hand even in distressful circumstances.   We hear Paul’s word today as we remember how he loved the people of Philippi.  The Church has the same affection for us as Paul had for the Philippians.