The unity of the Church at Philippi was apparently being threatened:
- by false teachers from without: 3:1-3
- by disagreement among the members from within: 4:1-3.
…These disagreements reveal a real spiritual problem within the church. A spiritual problem demands a spiritual remedy (not threats, rules, or force). Here is the cure for contention in the church – humble service.
- HUMBLE SERVANT OF GOD: 2:1-30
- A Humble Servant is like Christ: 5-11
- A condescending sentiment: 5-7a
- A condescending service: 7b
- A condescending sacrifice: 8
- A condescending settlement: 9-11 cf., 1 Peter 5:6
B. A Humble Servant is enjoyable to work with: 1-4
1. The servant is the source of love: 1-2
- He doesn’t strive or serve self: 3a
- He considers others better than himself: 3b
- He puts others first:
C. A Humble Servant is quick to obey without murmuring or disputing: 12-14. Remember, it is God’s work we do! Verse 13.
D. A Humble Servant is above reproach: 15a
E. A Humble Servant is fulfilling his appointed service: 15b – 16a.
F. A Humble Servant is pleasing to his instructor: Vs. 2, 16b
…Examples of Humble Servants:
- Paul: 17-18
- Timothy 19-23, especially verse 22.
- Epaphroditus: 24-30, especially verse 30.
A Humble Servant does not think of himself mainly – He thinks of others mostly – “others” is the key to “humble service.”