Before you start reading this, pick up your Bible able read through the passage.
In the study on Philippians 1 we looked at a couple of weeks ago, both on the Wednesday and at Reality on Friday, you'll remember that in verse 27 it says, 'Above all you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ.'
What we learnt was that the things we do don't change how much God loves us, or the way he views us. BUT, the way we live should glorify God, and help point others to Him.
As you will have just read from today's passage, Paul is continuing his letter to the church in Philippi by talking about Timothy and Epaphroditus. He's commending them for what they've been doing and how they've been living. He's giving the people in Philippi some examples of how to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel.
What is so great about theses two? Why is it that Paul is writing about them? Why should those in Philippi imitate them? Well, they are both imitating Christ. In verse 20 Paul says this about Timothy, 'I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare.' Paul is commending Timothy because he's demonstrating a real love for his fellow believers. He's imitating Christ. Similarly Epaphroditus is also being commended in verse 30, 'because he almost died for the work of Christ.' He's clearly pretty committed to the Gospel.
These two people were willing to serve the Lord, and live their lives in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and for Epaphroditus, to the extent that he nearly died.
Are you willing to allow God to take over your life to the extent that you will live like this? Will you show genuine concern for others welfare like Timothy? Are you willing to serve the Lord no matter what it costs, even to the point of death?
At Reality a couple of weeks ago I asked this question, 'are you going to compromise on the faith that others are willing to die for? '
If this question makes you feel uncomfortable like it does me, then good. It shows that think it's important, that it's serious, and needs to be considered. It can also help you to pray.
Christ died for us. He was willing, will we love him by surrendering out all to him?
Reflection
Spend a few minutes and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you where you may have been compromising on your faith? Where might you not be living in a manner worthy of the Gospel?
Use those reflections to ask God to lead you each day, and ask for his guidance in going about your life in the most God glorifying way you can.
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