Philippians
Prize, 19 October 2025
19 10 25
Prize
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
October 19, 2025
Philippians 3:1-16
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: In a world full of attractions, knowing Jesus is the ultimate prize.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 3:12-14
One of my favorite lines when people learn I’m a pastor is when I tell them I hate organized religion. Usually, they are quite surprised. I sometimes joke that I like disorganized religion! Technically, I love “true” religion described by Jesus’ half-brother, James
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (James 1:27)
But tragically, countless people—including so-called Christians—have emphasized religion—organized religion—over the way of Jesus best described as a relationship with God.
Before we get into today’s text, I must define what I mean by religion. I’ve often looked at religion as the human quest to win God’s favor, His approval. For thousands of years people have engaged in religious practices such as prayer, fasting, pilgrimages, giving, and even self-harm to appease the god or gods, whether it’s to benefit them in this life or the next…with most being unsure of their ultimate status.
The message of Jesus was radically different. For starters, he taught his followers to call God Abba, Father, Papa, Daddy. It was shocking for Jesus’ audience to hear such an intimate word used to describe the Almighty.
Many have made comparisons between religion and the relationship of Christianity. They usually look like this:
Religion – our pursuit of God
Christianity - God’s pursuit of us
Religion – strive and achieve
Christianity – surrender and abide
Religion – what we do
Christianity – what Jesus has done
The context for our text today in Paul’s letter to a church in modern day Greece is the early days of Christianity. Jesus did not come to start a new religion, but as a Jewish rabbi, his mission was to seek and save…both Jew and Gentile. Jews have followed the 613 laws of Moses, known as the Torah. This includes everything from dietary restrictions (eating kosher) to worship rituals to male circumcision. Today, churches debate things like the role of women in ministry, the mode of baptism, and whether any spiritual gifts have ceased. In the early church, the role of Jewish laws and traditions were hotly debated.
Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. (Philippians 3:1)
Paul’s in prison rejoicing—not in his circumstances, but in the LORD!
Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—though I myself have reasons for such confidence. (Philippians 3:2-4a)
Paul uses strong language to warn about the enemies of the gospel, enemies of the good news. There are at least eighteen different theories on who these enemies were, but it seems like they were relying upon their religion to earn God’s favor rather than trusting in Jesus’ death and resurrection. Paul himself was a very religious, law-abiding Jew before he encountered the risen Christ.
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. (Philippians 3:4b-6)
He was a model Jew. Prior to his conversion to follow Jesus, I’m sure he would’ve been asked to speak at all the conferences, write best-selling books, and influence countless on social media. He was among the Jewish elite, but neither his ancestry and heritage nor his achievements were enough to earn God’s favor.
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. (Philippians 3:7)
Christ is better than any religion.
What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. (Philippians 3:8a)
Paul’s in prison for following and proclaiming Jesus. He has lost his status among the Jews, who now are his enemies. Everything he worked for he considers a loss…but knowing Jesus is worth it.
I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. (Philippians 3:8b-9)
His religious efforts he now considers rubbish. He actually uses a vulgar term in Greek (think feces). That’s what his religion means to him! I love the next sentence. It’s the centerpiece of today’s text.
I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. (Philippians 3:10-11)
Everyone wants to go to heaven…but nobody wants to die. Once again, we see how following Jesus is the opposite of the American Dream. To save our life, we must lose it. To experience resurrection, we must die to our selfish ways. I don’t like to suffer any more than you do, but we grow through trials. We are shaped by life’s storms. Growth and comfort cannot co-exist (Craig Groeschel).
Do you want to know Jesus…or just know about him? Do you want a relationship with God…or just religion, keeping him at arm’s length? Do you want God for what he can do for you—like a cosmic vending machine—or do you truly want to know Him?
The Greek word for “know,”ginosko, is intimate knowledge of another person, like a husband and wife. It’s not information, but the deepest connection.
The greatest thing in all my life is knowing Jesus. I admit it’s different knowing God than knowing someone you can see, hear, and hug. It takes time to recognize His voice, though we have 66 books to get us started!
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14)
Playwright Oscar Wilde famously said, “Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” Paul can relate. This great man of faith was once public enemy number one among Christians, overseeing their persecution and death! If you have stuff in your past, imagine the blood of martyrs on his? He could’ve wallowed in the guilt and shame, but instead he is looking ahead.
It's ok to look in the rear view mirror to see how far we’ve come, but if we stare at the past, we’ll crash into what’s ahead. Because of Jesus—not our goodness—the sins of Christ-followers have been forgiven. We can experience new life in Christ. He has a mission for us…to love God and to love others as ourselves.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14)
Paul is pressing on, he’s striving…not to be perfect, but to know Christ. Jesus is the prize, the reward, the greatest thing about the next life. He’s not shuffling to mediocrity. He’s running for Christ.
All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained. (Philippians 3:15-16)
He trusts God will guide the Philippians, even in their differences. They are a faithful church he deeply loves.
So What?
In a world full of attractions, knowing Jesus is the ultimate prize. There is no greater thing.
Do you know Jesus? Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus? It begins with saying, “Jesus, I give you my life. I believe you died and rose from the dead. I trust you to forgive my sins—past, present, and future. I repent of my selfish ways and surrender to you and your will. I want to follow you, into death and resurrection. Speak to me. Draw me close. Give me a hunger to pray and read the Bible. Fill me, Holy Spirit, with your power, gifts, and fruit. I owe you everything. Amen.” If you pray this for the first time today, please let me know. I have some gifts I’d like to give you.
If you are a follower of Jesus, how’s it going? Are you hearing his voice? Are you obeying? Are you sharing the good news with others? Are you making enough time for prayer? Are you pursuing intimacy with Christ?
Jesus is better than any religion. He’s better than money, power, or pleasure. In a world full of attractions, knowing Jesus is the ultimate prize. There is no greater thing.
Credits: thanks to W. Jerry Murray for ideas and input
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
October 19, 2025
Philippians 3:1-16
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: In a world full of attractions, knowing Jesus is the ultimate prize.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 3:12-14
One of my favorite lines when people learn I’m a pastor is when I tell them I hate organized religion. Usually, they are quite surprised. I sometimes joke that I like disorganized religion! Technically, I love “true” religion described by Jesus’ half-brother, James
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (James 1:27)
But tragically, countless people—including so-called Christians—have emphasized religion—organized religion—over the way of Jesus best described as a relationship with God.
Before we get into today’s text, I must define what I mean by religion. I’ve often looked at religion as the human quest to win God’s favor, His approval. For thousands of years people have engaged in religious practices such as prayer, fasting, pilgrimages, giving, and even self-harm to appease the god or gods, whether it’s to benefit them in this life or the next…with most being unsure of their ultimate status.
The message of Jesus was radically different. For starters, he taught his followers to call God Abba, Father, Papa, Daddy. It was shocking for Jesus’ audience to hear such an intimate word used to describe the Almighty.
Many have made comparisons between religion and the relationship of Christianity. They usually look like this:
Religion – our pursuit of God
Christianity - God’s pursuit of us
Religion – strive and achieve
Christianity – surrender and abide
Religion – what we do
Christianity – what Jesus has done
The context for our text today in Paul’s letter to a church in modern day Greece is the early days of Christianity. Jesus did not come to start a new religion, but as a Jewish rabbi, his mission was to seek and save…both Jew and Gentile. Jews have followed the 613 laws of Moses, known as the Torah. This includes everything from dietary restrictions (eating kosher) to worship rituals to male circumcision. Today, churches debate things like the role of women in ministry, the mode of baptism, and whether any spiritual gifts have ceased. In the early church, the role of Jewish laws and traditions were hotly debated.
Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. (Philippians 3:1)
Paul’s in prison rejoicing—not in his circumstances, but in the LORD!
Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—though I myself have reasons for such confidence. (Philippians 3:2-4a)
Paul uses strong language to warn about the enemies of the gospel, enemies of the good news. There are at least eighteen different theories on who these enemies were, but it seems like they were relying upon their religion to earn God’s favor rather than trusting in Jesus’ death and resurrection. Paul himself was a very religious, law-abiding Jew before he encountered the risen Christ.
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. (Philippians 3:4b-6)
He was a model Jew. Prior to his conversion to follow Jesus, I’m sure he would’ve been asked to speak at all the conferences, write best-selling books, and influence countless on social media. He was among the Jewish elite, but neither his ancestry and heritage nor his achievements were enough to earn God’s favor.
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. (Philippians 3:7)
Christ is better than any religion.
What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. (Philippians 3:8a)
Paul’s in prison for following and proclaiming Jesus. He has lost his status among the Jews, who now are his enemies. Everything he worked for he considers a loss…but knowing Jesus is worth it.
I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. (Philippians 3:8b-9)
His religious efforts he now considers rubbish. He actually uses a vulgar term in Greek (think feces). That’s what his religion means to him! I love the next sentence. It’s the centerpiece of today’s text.
I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. (Philippians 3:10-11)
Everyone wants to go to heaven…but nobody wants to die. Once again, we see how following Jesus is the opposite of the American Dream. To save our life, we must lose it. To experience resurrection, we must die to our selfish ways. I don’t like to suffer any more than you do, but we grow through trials. We are shaped by life’s storms. Growth and comfort cannot co-exist (Craig Groeschel).
Do you want to know Jesus…or just know about him? Do you want a relationship with God…or just religion, keeping him at arm’s length? Do you want God for what he can do for you—like a cosmic vending machine—or do you truly want to know Him?
The Greek word for “know,”ginosko, is intimate knowledge of another person, like a husband and wife. It’s not information, but the deepest connection.
The greatest thing in all my life is knowing Jesus. I admit it’s different knowing God than knowing someone you can see, hear, and hug. It takes time to recognize His voice, though we have 66 books to get us started!
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14)
Playwright Oscar Wilde famously said, “Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” Paul can relate. This great man of faith was once public enemy number one among Christians, overseeing their persecution and death! If you have stuff in your past, imagine the blood of martyrs on his? He could’ve wallowed in the guilt and shame, but instead he is looking ahead.
It's ok to look in the rear view mirror to see how far we’ve come, but if we stare at the past, we’ll crash into what’s ahead. Because of Jesus—not our goodness—the sins of Christ-followers have been forgiven. We can experience new life in Christ. He has a mission for us…to love God and to love others as ourselves.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14)
Paul is pressing on, he’s striving…not to be perfect, but to know Christ. Jesus is the prize, the reward, the greatest thing about the next life. He’s not shuffling to mediocrity. He’s running for Christ.
All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained. (Philippians 3:15-16)
He trusts God will guide the Philippians, even in their differences. They are a faithful church he deeply loves.
So What?
In a world full of attractions, knowing Jesus is the ultimate prize. There is no greater thing.
Do you know Jesus? Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus? It begins with saying, “Jesus, I give you my life. I believe you died and rose from the dead. I trust you to forgive my sins—past, present, and future. I repent of my selfish ways and surrender to you and your will. I want to follow you, into death and resurrection. Speak to me. Draw me close. Give me a hunger to pray and read the Bible. Fill me, Holy Spirit, with your power, gifts, and fruit. I owe you everything. Amen.” If you pray this for the first time today, please let me know. I have some gifts I’d like to give you.
If you are a follower of Jesus, how’s it going? Are you hearing his voice? Are you obeying? Are you sharing the good news with others? Are you making enough time for prayer? Are you pursuing intimacy with Christ?
Jesus is better than any religion. He’s better than money, power, or pleasure. In a world full of attractions, knowing Jesus is the ultimate prize. There is no greater thing.
Credits: thanks to W. Jerry Murray for ideas and input
Messengers, 12 October 2025
15 10 25
Messengers
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
October 12, 2025
Philippians 2:19-30
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: Paul’s friends are godly men of character worthy of honor.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:19-24
Many years ago, my friend—I’ll call him Bill—that’s his name—Bill was working as a physical therapist following years of training and study. A friend asked him to take over the finances of his growing company, becoming the CFO. Bill was so surprised, wondering why this successful entrepreneur would ask him to change careers and manage millions of dollars with no formal training in finance. The man replied, “Because I trust you.”
If you had a business—as some of you do—and you had to give it away to someone who is not related to you, who would you choose? Who do you trust?
Today as we continue our study of the book of Philippians, a short letter written from prison by Paul to a church in modern day Greece, we will be introduced to two people Paul trusted and loved…Timothy and Epaphroditus.
Trust. It takes years to earn and seconds to lose. The Bible introduces us to a wide variety of characters, some wise, others foolish, and some evil. All but Jesus had flaws, yet many were used by God to do great things in His Kingdom leading up to the faith of many here today 2000 years later.
Last Sunday, we looked at a beautiful poem or hymn about Jesus the Messiah and Paul’s encouragement to the Philippians to follow Christ and his example. Now he offers some personal notes about his two friends who are examples of humility, self-sacrifice, and what it means to pick up your cross daily and follow Jesus.
Timothy and Epaphroditus
I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. (Philippians 2:19)
Timothy is mentioned in the first verse of this epistle or short letter, but he’s probably not in prison with Paul as this is written. Paul hopes to send Timothy to Philippi. Notice he doesn’t just hope, he hopes “in the LORD.” He is seeking God’s will above his own. Timothy is a very special person to Paul. They were together when this church was founded. He knows Timothy will be a blessing to the Philippians and that he will return to Paul with news about them.
I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. (Philippians 2:20)
The Greek word for “like him” is rare, meaning “of like mind” or “one who shares the same feelings.” Timothy was Paul’s disciple, and when Timothy speaks, he speaks for Paul.
For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 2:21)
Is this true? I believe it is generally true. Humans tend to be selfish, which surely inspired Paul to write several verses earlier
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4)
This is so challenging, yet Jesus modeled this perfectly.
But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon. (Philippians 2:22-24)
Timothy did not serve Paul so much as he served in the work of the gospel, the good news that Jesus is LORD.
The Bible is filled with partnerships, from Adam and Eve (after God said it’s not good for man to be alone) to Moses and Aaron to Paul and Timothy here. There’s great, ancient wisdom in the book of Ecclesiastes which says,
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
What’s great about Timothy is he doesn’t seek the spotlight, but he’s willing to serve in the second chair, so to speak.
Paul and Timothy worked together traveling throughout the known world, including prison, but Timothy also served as an envoy to churches. Paul wrote two letters directly to Timothy which we have in our Bible…1 and 2 Timothy! In the second, he says,
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:1)
The next verse is one of my favorites in the entire Bible.
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. (2 Timothy 2:2)
It’s easy for me to remember the address…2 Timothy 2:2. This is a brilliant vision of discipleship…multiplication …reproduction. How many generations are mentioned? Four! Paul – Timothy – reliable people – others.
You can apply this strategy to any form of mentoring, whether it’s training athletes, passing on special recipes in the kitchen, maintaining family traditions, or educating people in the trades. In this case, though, Paul tells Timothy not to hoard his faith but share it…intentionally…with those who will do the same.
I know this doesn’t sound “fair,” but not everyone is worthy of your time and investment. Jesus loved everyone, but focused his time on twelve disciples and, further, three of his followers—Peter, James, and John—who passed the baton of faith to others who did the same again and again and now 2000 years later, here we are! Who introduced you to Jesus? Who can you introduce to Jesus?
Now Paul turns to his other friend.
But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. (Philippians 2:25)
Epaphroditus was a predecessor to a Door Dash driver! He delivered messages and supplies between Paul and the Philippians. He sacrificed to do so.
For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. (Philippians 2:26-27)
Have you ever been near death? We are quick to forget God’s mercy, healing, and answers to prayer. Obviously God sometimes says no or wait, but Paul celebrates the health of his friend.
Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me. (Philippians 2:28-30)
We are to worship God and honor people. Showing honor not only affirms the person, it shows others what matters, what we value.
So What?
Let’s go back for a moment and look at the character of these two men. Paul says Timothy…
- shows genuine concern for the welfare of others (2:20)
o can this be said of you?
- has proved himself (2:22)
o Are you all talk or do you walk the walk?
- has served in the work of the gospel (2:22)
o This is sharing Jesus in word and deed
o Do you share your faith? Do you share your story? Do you share His story?
o There’s an urban legend that St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the gospel. If necessary, use words.” He did not say that…and if he did, he would need words to say it! The work of the gospel involves words and deeds. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care…but we need both. We need to look after the widow, stranger, and orphan…AND tell them about Jesus.
o We talk about the things we love, which is why you hear me talk about my wife, our kids and g-kids, Dietsch’s ice cream, roller coasters, music…and Jesus. I don’t force any of those things on people. I’m not trying to sell anything. But these are my passions and I want others to experience them. I love introducing new friends to Heather. I love showing photos of my family. One of my favorite things to do is not only eat ice cream but treat others to ice cream. I have a season pass to Cedar Point and the other Six Flags parks that expires December 31, 2026 so if you want to ride coasters, let’s go! I say yes to most every invitation I have to play music. And when it comes to Jesus, I want the world to know they are loved so much that someone died for them. That’s a lot of love! Jesus is the greatest gift, but gifts are not yours until you receive them, accept them. In a world of hatred, anxiety, fear, and division, Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He is LORD of all and wants to lead your life and mind…if we will get out of the driver’s seat and—as the songs says—let Jesus take the wheel.
Paul calls Epaphroditus a brother, a co-worker, a fellow soldier. He was a faithful messenger who took care of Paul’s needs. I’m sure he had the spiritual gifts of mercy and helps. He was worthy of honor. He was so committed to the work of the gospel he almost died.
It would be incredible for those words to be said of me…are any of us. The great news is we get to choose how we live our lives and it begins with making good choices every day, every hour, every moment.
Paul trusted these faithful men. Much like a man entrusted his life work and business to my friend Bill, Paul entrusted his work in the gospel—the good news—to these men.
Paul’s friends were godly men of character, committed to Jesus, disciple makers, and worthy of honor. Are we?
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
October 12, 2025
Philippians 2:19-30
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: Paul’s friends are godly men of character worthy of honor.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:19-24
Many years ago, my friend—I’ll call him Bill—that’s his name—Bill was working as a physical therapist following years of training and study. A friend asked him to take over the finances of his growing company, becoming the CFO. Bill was so surprised, wondering why this successful entrepreneur would ask him to change careers and manage millions of dollars with no formal training in finance. The man replied, “Because I trust you.”
If you had a business—as some of you do—and you had to give it away to someone who is not related to you, who would you choose? Who do you trust?
Today as we continue our study of the book of Philippians, a short letter written from prison by Paul to a church in modern day Greece, we will be introduced to two people Paul trusted and loved…Timothy and Epaphroditus.
Trust. It takes years to earn and seconds to lose. The Bible introduces us to a wide variety of characters, some wise, others foolish, and some evil. All but Jesus had flaws, yet many were used by God to do great things in His Kingdom leading up to the faith of many here today 2000 years later.
Last Sunday, we looked at a beautiful poem or hymn about Jesus the Messiah and Paul’s encouragement to the Philippians to follow Christ and his example. Now he offers some personal notes about his two friends who are examples of humility, self-sacrifice, and what it means to pick up your cross daily and follow Jesus.
Timothy and Epaphroditus
I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. (Philippians 2:19)
Timothy is mentioned in the first verse of this epistle or short letter, but he’s probably not in prison with Paul as this is written. Paul hopes to send Timothy to Philippi. Notice he doesn’t just hope, he hopes “in the LORD.” He is seeking God’s will above his own. Timothy is a very special person to Paul. They were together when this church was founded. He knows Timothy will be a blessing to the Philippians and that he will return to Paul with news about them.
I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. (Philippians 2:20)
The Greek word for “like him” is rare, meaning “of like mind” or “one who shares the same feelings.” Timothy was Paul’s disciple, and when Timothy speaks, he speaks for Paul.
For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 2:21)
Is this true? I believe it is generally true. Humans tend to be selfish, which surely inspired Paul to write several verses earlier
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4)
This is so challenging, yet Jesus modeled this perfectly.
But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon. (Philippians 2:22-24)
Timothy did not serve Paul so much as he served in the work of the gospel, the good news that Jesus is LORD.
The Bible is filled with partnerships, from Adam and Eve (after God said it’s not good for man to be alone) to Moses and Aaron to Paul and Timothy here. There’s great, ancient wisdom in the book of Ecclesiastes which says,
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
What’s great about Timothy is he doesn’t seek the spotlight, but he’s willing to serve in the second chair, so to speak.
Paul and Timothy worked together traveling throughout the known world, including prison, but Timothy also served as an envoy to churches. Paul wrote two letters directly to Timothy which we have in our Bible…1 and 2 Timothy! In the second, he says,
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 2:1)
The next verse is one of my favorites in the entire Bible.
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. (2 Timothy 2:2)
It’s easy for me to remember the address…2 Timothy 2:2. This is a brilliant vision of discipleship…multiplication …reproduction. How many generations are mentioned? Four! Paul – Timothy – reliable people – others.
You can apply this strategy to any form of mentoring, whether it’s training athletes, passing on special recipes in the kitchen, maintaining family traditions, or educating people in the trades. In this case, though, Paul tells Timothy not to hoard his faith but share it…intentionally…with those who will do the same.
I know this doesn’t sound “fair,” but not everyone is worthy of your time and investment. Jesus loved everyone, but focused his time on twelve disciples and, further, three of his followers—Peter, James, and John—who passed the baton of faith to others who did the same again and again and now 2000 years later, here we are! Who introduced you to Jesus? Who can you introduce to Jesus?
Now Paul turns to his other friend.
But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. (Philippians 2:25)
Epaphroditus was a predecessor to a Door Dash driver! He delivered messages and supplies between Paul and the Philippians. He sacrificed to do so.
For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. (Philippians 2:26-27)
Have you ever been near death? We are quick to forget God’s mercy, healing, and answers to prayer. Obviously God sometimes says no or wait, but Paul celebrates the health of his friend.
Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me. (Philippians 2:28-30)
We are to worship God and honor people. Showing honor not only affirms the person, it shows others what matters, what we value.
So What?
Let’s go back for a moment and look at the character of these two men. Paul says Timothy…
- shows genuine concern for the welfare of others (2:20)
o can this be said of you?
- has proved himself (2:22)
o Are you all talk or do you walk the walk?
- has served in the work of the gospel (2:22)
o This is sharing Jesus in word and deed
o Do you share your faith? Do you share your story? Do you share His story?
o There’s an urban legend that St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the gospel. If necessary, use words.” He did not say that…and if he did, he would need words to say it! The work of the gospel involves words and deeds. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care…but we need both. We need to look after the widow, stranger, and orphan…AND tell them about Jesus.
o We talk about the things we love, which is why you hear me talk about my wife, our kids and g-kids, Dietsch’s ice cream, roller coasters, music…and Jesus. I don’t force any of those things on people. I’m not trying to sell anything. But these are my passions and I want others to experience them. I love introducing new friends to Heather. I love showing photos of my family. One of my favorite things to do is not only eat ice cream but treat others to ice cream. I have a season pass to Cedar Point and the other Six Flags parks that expires December 31, 2026 so if you want to ride coasters, let’s go! I say yes to most every invitation I have to play music. And when it comes to Jesus, I want the world to know they are loved so much that someone died for them. That’s a lot of love! Jesus is the greatest gift, but gifts are not yours until you receive them, accept them. In a world of hatred, anxiety, fear, and division, Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He is LORD of all and wants to lead your life and mind…if we will get out of the driver’s seat and—as the songs says—let Jesus take the wheel.
Paul calls Epaphroditus a brother, a co-worker, a fellow soldier. He was a faithful messenger who took care of Paul’s needs. I’m sure he had the spiritual gifts of mercy and helps. He was worthy of honor. He was so committed to the work of the gospel he almost died.
It would be incredible for those words to be said of me…are any of us. The great news is we get to choose how we live our lives and it begins with making good choices every day, every hour, every moment.
Paul trusted these faithful men. Much like a man entrusted his life work and business to my friend Bill, Paul entrusted his work in the gospel—the good news—to these men.
Paul’s friends were godly men of character, committed to Jesus, disciple makers, and worthy of honor. Are we?
Messiah, 5 October 2025
02 10 25
Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
October 5, 2025
Philippians 2:5-18
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: Jesus the Messiah is our perfect example, the humble servant.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:5-8
There are two types of people in this world—those who like poetry and those who…
On the surface, poetry can be something for artists and literary types. “Who has time for fancy words?” one may ask. “Just get to the point!”
Whether you know it or not, you probably engage in poetry most every day. It might not be through poems, per se, but songs. Today we’re going to look at one of the most brilliant poems or possibly song lyrics in the Bible. They don’t rhyme—at least not in English—but they provide a vivid description of the most important human who as ever walked our planet.
We’re continuing our study of the short book of Philippians. Paul was one of the early church leaders. After persecuting Christians, he had a supernatural encounter with Jesus which led to his conversion and later to planting churches throughout the known world. Philippians was written by imprisoned Paul to a church in modern day Greece to encourage them. Last week’s text ended with words about humility. Today we begin with the fifth verse of the second chapter.
These next seven verses are the central theme of the entire book of Philippians. Some have called this the “Christ hymn,” perhaps an early church creed. A creed is a summary of one’s faith. We’ll examine an important creed in the new year.
Before we unpack these seven verses in detail, listen to the ancient poem.
You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. (Philippians 2:5, NLT)
Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. (Philippians 2:6-8, NLT)
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11, NLT)
Listen to it again in a different translation (ESV).
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:5-8, ESV)
Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11, ESV)
What word or phrase stood out to you? Let’s dive into the New International Version text.
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: (Philippians 2:5, NIV)
He’s our example. He’s the perfect model of what it means to be human, because he became one of us, which is incredible.
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Philippians 2:6-7, NIV)
This isn’t an exact comparison, but I like to this of this as Jesus’ Clark Kent move. If you know anything about Superman, you know he spent most of the time as a journalist with nerdy glasses. He set aside his cape and superhero powers to become a regular man, which is not unlike what Jesus did when he came to earth as a baby. Jesus is fully God and yet fully human, something known as the hypostatic union, one person with two natures. This is a mystery, for sure, but it can be seen throughout the Bible. He chose to serve us, teach us, and ultimately die for us to pay the penalty of our sins and failures.
Let’s go back and look at the text again.
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Philippians 2:6-7, NIV)
Jesus is God. He has always been God. We worship one God in three Person, Father, Son and Spirit. We call this the Trinity, three in one. It’s a mystery, but what’s also a mystery is why all-powerful God would choose to come to this broken, messed-up world and live among us. Forget the agony of dying on the cross, just living on earth for 33 years instead of heaven—what a step down! It says he made himself nothing. Who wants to sign up for that? He became a servant. God became a servant!
The Greek word for emptying is kenosis, a theological term used to describe Jesus emptying himself of his divine glory to become one of us…or maybe emptying his divinity into a human body.
Jesus didn’t stop being God, but became one of us, fully human. He was secure in his identity, which obviously includes being a servant. We know Jesus chose a humble, human existence to set an example for us to follow. As it says in the book of Hebrews,
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. (Hebrews 4:14-15)
God the Son willingly set aside power and privilege to become one of us, and that’s amazing. Some of you may remember the old Joan Osborne song “One of Us” from the 90’s. She sang, “What if God was one of us?” I want to reply, “He was! He is! He gets us!”
Which reminds me, most of you have seen the “He Gets Us” campaign. It has its critics, but I love it. It sends the powerful message that Jesus sees us, knows us, and gets us. He knows pain, loss, betrayal, and suffering better than anyone…and certainly better than any religious figure.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:8, NIV)
The ultimate sacrifice is to die for another person, and Jesus died for us. He lived a perfect life but died because we’re not perfect. We need a Savior.
Humility is not thinking less of yourself but rather thinking of yourself less. Christine Caine says humility is “not a character trait to be developed, it’s the natural by-product of being with Jesus.” Nobody has ever modeled humility better than Jesus and his self-sacrifice…all the way to death. As the old song says, “He gave his life/what more could he give/oh how he loves you/oh how he loves me/oh how he loves you and me.”
It would be bad news if we stopped with Jesus on the cross, but “He is Risen!”
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11, NIV)
Two weeks ago we talked about paradox, and here’s one. Because of his humble obedience to go to the cross he was exalted. The Kingdom of God is upside down.
We’ve reflected upon Jesus through this brilliant poem of the Messiah which shows both Christ’s humiliation (incarnation, cross) and exaltation (resurrection, ascension, universal lordship). The gospel, the good news, in three words: Jesus is LORD.
So What?
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13)
Work out your salvation, like work out your body. We don’t work for our salvation, because Jesus paid the price on the cross. He saved every man, woman, and child that says yes to him and surrenders their lives to him. But we don’t stop the moment we say “yes” to Jesus. We need to develop our salvation. We need to grow, not just individually but as a church family. We need to follow daily. How? With fear and trembling! We fear, honor, and stand in awe of God…and submit to His will and plans.
Paul follows with clear, practical next steps for us all.
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” (Philippians 2:14-15a)
I’m so glad every Christian in the USA has mastered this! Ha! It has been said that gossip and slander are the most dangerous threats in the church today. A house divided against itself cannot stand.
THINK (true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, kind) before you speak! This will guard against divisions and protect the unity Jesus prays for us today.
Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. (Philippians 2:15b-18)
Here's Paul rejoicing yet again…from prison! The darker the world, the brighter the light of Christ will shine through us…if we get out of the way! We need to hold firmly to God and His word, the word of life. Jesus the Messiah is our perfect example, the humble servant. We need to know Jesus. We need to follow Jesus. We need to share Jesus, in word and deed…for his glory. Amen!
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
October 5, 2025
Philippians 2:5-18
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: Jesus the Messiah is our perfect example, the humble servant.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:5-8
There are two types of people in this world—those who like poetry and those who…
On the surface, poetry can be something for artists and literary types. “Who has time for fancy words?” one may ask. “Just get to the point!”
Whether you know it or not, you probably engage in poetry most every day. It might not be through poems, per se, but songs. Today we’re going to look at one of the most brilliant poems or possibly song lyrics in the Bible. They don’t rhyme—at least not in English—but they provide a vivid description of the most important human who as ever walked our planet.
We’re continuing our study of the short book of Philippians. Paul was one of the early church leaders. After persecuting Christians, he had a supernatural encounter with Jesus which led to his conversion and later to planting churches throughout the known world. Philippians was written by imprisoned Paul to a church in modern day Greece to encourage them. Last week’s text ended with words about humility. Today we begin with the fifth verse of the second chapter.
These next seven verses are the central theme of the entire book of Philippians. Some have called this the “Christ hymn,” perhaps an early church creed. A creed is a summary of one’s faith. We’ll examine an important creed in the new year.
Before we unpack these seven verses in detail, listen to the ancient poem.
You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. (Philippians 2:5, NLT)
Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. (Philippians 2:6-8, NLT)
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11, NLT)
Listen to it again in a different translation (ESV).
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:5-8, ESV)
Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11, ESV)
What word or phrase stood out to you? Let’s dive into the New International Version text.
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: (Philippians 2:5, NIV)
He’s our example. He’s the perfect model of what it means to be human, because he became one of us, which is incredible.
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Philippians 2:6-7, NIV)
This isn’t an exact comparison, but I like to this of this as Jesus’ Clark Kent move. If you know anything about Superman, you know he spent most of the time as a journalist with nerdy glasses. He set aside his cape and superhero powers to become a regular man, which is not unlike what Jesus did when he came to earth as a baby. Jesus is fully God and yet fully human, something known as the hypostatic union, one person with two natures. This is a mystery, for sure, but it can be seen throughout the Bible. He chose to serve us, teach us, and ultimately die for us to pay the penalty of our sins and failures.
Let’s go back and look at the text again.
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Philippians 2:6-7, NIV)
Jesus is God. He has always been God. We worship one God in three Person, Father, Son and Spirit. We call this the Trinity, three in one. It’s a mystery, but what’s also a mystery is why all-powerful God would choose to come to this broken, messed-up world and live among us. Forget the agony of dying on the cross, just living on earth for 33 years instead of heaven—what a step down! It says he made himself nothing. Who wants to sign up for that? He became a servant. God became a servant!
The Greek word for emptying is kenosis, a theological term used to describe Jesus emptying himself of his divine glory to become one of us…or maybe emptying his divinity into a human body.
Jesus didn’t stop being God, but became one of us, fully human. He was secure in his identity, which obviously includes being a servant. We know Jesus chose a humble, human existence to set an example for us to follow. As it says in the book of Hebrews,
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. (Hebrews 4:14-15)
God the Son willingly set aside power and privilege to become one of us, and that’s amazing. Some of you may remember the old Joan Osborne song “One of Us” from the 90’s. She sang, “What if God was one of us?” I want to reply, “He was! He is! He gets us!”
Which reminds me, most of you have seen the “He Gets Us” campaign. It has its critics, but I love it. It sends the powerful message that Jesus sees us, knows us, and gets us. He knows pain, loss, betrayal, and suffering better than anyone…and certainly better than any religious figure.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:8, NIV)
The ultimate sacrifice is to die for another person, and Jesus died for us. He lived a perfect life but died because we’re not perfect. We need a Savior.
Humility is not thinking less of yourself but rather thinking of yourself less. Christine Caine says humility is “not a character trait to be developed, it’s the natural by-product of being with Jesus.” Nobody has ever modeled humility better than Jesus and his self-sacrifice…all the way to death. As the old song says, “He gave his life/what more could he give/oh how he loves you/oh how he loves me/oh how he loves you and me.”
It would be bad news if we stopped with Jesus on the cross, but “He is Risen!”
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11, NIV)
Two weeks ago we talked about paradox, and here’s one. Because of his humble obedience to go to the cross he was exalted. The Kingdom of God is upside down.
We’ve reflected upon Jesus through this brilliant poem of the Messiah which shows both Christ’s humiliation (incarnation, cross) and exaltation (resurrection, ascension, universal lordship). The gospel, the good news, in three words: Jesus is LORD.
So What?
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:12-13)
Work out your salvation, like work out your body. We don’t work for our salvation, because Jesus paid the price on the cross. He saved every man, woman, and child that says yes to him and surrenders their lives to him. But we don’t stop the moment we say “yes” to Jesus. We need to develop our salvation. We need to grow, not just individually but as a church family. We need to follow daily. How? With fear and trembling! We fear, honor, and stand in awe of God…and submit to His will and plans.
Paul follows with clear, practical next steps for us all.
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” (Philippians 2:14-15a)
I’m so glad every Christian in the USA has mastered this! Ha! It has been said that gossip and slander are the most dangerous threats in the church today. A house divided against itself cannot stand.
THINK (true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, kind) before you speak! This will guard against divisions and protect the unity Jesus prays for us today.
Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me. (Philippians 2:15b-18)
Here's Paul rejoicing yet again…from prison! The darker the world, the brighter the light of Christ will shine through us…if we get out of the way! We need to hold firmly to God and His word, the word of life. Jesus the Messiah is our perfect example, the humble servant. We need to know Jesus. We need to follow Jesus. We need to share Jesus, in word and deed…for his glory. Amen!
Paradox, 21 September 2025
21 09 25
Paradox
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
September 21, 2025
Philippians 1:12-26
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: The Kingdom of God is filled with paradox the world does not (always) understand.
Paradox is a statement that appears contradictory but actually describes a deeper truth. One of the most popular examples is less is more.
The Bible is filled with paradox, which explains why following Jesus is the original alternative lifestyle. It is radical. It is counter-cultural. We are not to live like the world lives because we are not of this world. We are citizens of what appears to be an upside-down kingdom, the Kingdom of God.
Jesus said, “The first shall be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 20:16)
Paul said, “When I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)
Today we continue our series on the book of Philippians, a short letter written by Paul to one of the first churches he started in modern day Greece. He’s writing from an unknown prison and the theme of the letter—paradoxically—is joy.
Have you ever been imprisoned? Most of us have not been held in physical chains, but many of us have been in bondage, whether it’s to fear, addiction, mental illness, debt, loneliness, anxiety, hatred, or shame.
Paul is physically imprisoned for proclaiming the gospel, the good news that Jesus is LORD. You would think that prison would stop his ministry, but Paul says otherwise.
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. (Philippians 1:12-14)
Do you see the paradox? Paul is arrested for preaching good news and now possibly thousands of soldiers (the whole palace guard) learn about him and his message. Chains may or may not have been literal, but he was imprisoned and suffering physically.
For two thousand years, tens of millions of Christians have been persecuted for their faith, many even martyred. Roughly 4000-6000 are killed for faith-related reasons every year. North African Tertullian in the second-century said “The blood of Christians is seed,” meaning “the blood of martyrs is the seed of the church.” When you try to stop us, it will only strengthen and expand our movement.
Paul understood this. Amazingly, even in prison, he was not concerned about his well-being, but rather the Kingdom of God. He understood these words of Jesus:
Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. (Luke 9:23-24)
Every human experiences seasons of growth, from drinking to eating to crawling to walking to running. Spiritual growth has its own steps. Jesus began his public ministry by inviting people to “come and see.” Over time, he challenged them to greater maturity, culminating with “come and die”…in order to truly live.
Do you understand this? Are you experiencing this? If you’re like me, you wonder if it’s even possible. After all, we’re taught in our culture to be independent, to do whatever feels good, to declare our rights, and pursue happiness, safety, and comfort. But this is not the way of Jesus…or Paul. Their chief concern is the Kingdom of God.
It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. (Philippians 1:15-17)
Motivates matter, right? Not according to Paul in this instance!
But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. (Philippians 1:18a)
Paul doesn’t care. The gospel, the good news that Jesus is LORD, is being preached. Here the message is more than the medium, in this case likely competitors of Paul preaching the pure gospel with selfish motives. He then says,
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, (Philippians 1:18b)
He’s really rejoicing…in prison…in chains. Why?
for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. (Philippians 1:19)
There it is…Paul’s deliverance, whether it’s release from prison or eternal salvation.
Notice the two things that will turn out for his deliverance: the prayers of the Philippians and the Holy Spirit.
It’s a mystery the role we play and the role God plays in miracles, in the supernatural, in the transformation of lives.
I often think of it like sailing. Heather and I had a sailing class in college, the last class of the week on Friday afternoon we got to go sailing. There are two parts to sailing: the wind and the sail. If there’s no wind, you won’t move much. If the sail is not in the right position, you won’t move much…or at least not in the right direction! It’s a both-and.
The Greek word for the Holy Spirit, pneuma, literally means wind. I like to think our prayers are like putting up the sails. When we pray and the Spirit moves, there’s motion, movement, transformation.
Does God need us? Of course not, but He chooses to involve us in His work, His mission. We are His ambassadors on planet earth, re-presenting Him to others. Incredible!
Paul rejoiced at the prayers of the Philippians and the provision of the Spirit.
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. (Philippians 1:20)
“Paul, you’re in prison for your faith. Don’t worry about being ashamed. You are obviously a man of great courage.” Are we courageous about our faith…or ashamed? Jesus hung up for us. Can we stand up for him? Can we tell our story…His-tory? Paul didn’t care about himself. All that mattered was God’s glory, Christ exalted. He explicitly said,
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
Paradox!
We’re all going to die someday. The question is how will we live. Paul has already given up his life, his agenda, his will, his rights to Jesus. Every day he declared in word and deed, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done.” Did you know there’s tremendous freedom in letting go? Fully surrendered people don’t worry about…anything! If it’s all about Jesus, it’s up to him whether we live or die, so there’s nothing we need to protect, maintain, or stress about. It’s in His hands…even our very lives.
Do our lives matter? Absolutely! You were created in the image of God with dignity, value, and worth. But you were made by God, for God, and for God’s glory.
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ephesians 2:10, NLT)
Here’s Paul’s explanation of “should I stay or should I go?”
If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. (Philippians 1:22-24)
I feel this. I can’t wait to meet Jesus face to face, but my mission has not yet been accomplished…and neither has yours! We have work to do.
Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me. (Philippians 1:25-26)
Like a good pastor, Paul loves his flock, his sheep, his disciples. He cares for them, encourages them, and finds joy in their maturity.
I can relate. College First, when I hear stories of people taking next steps with God I rejoice. Whenever a selfish sinner surrenders to Jesus, I celebrate…with all of the angels, by the way! I love you and love to see what God is doing in and through us—not me, but us. Together. Jesus is building his church! Each of us has a part to play, a gift to use…not for our glory but God’s.
Thank you…for praying, inviting, serving, and investing. God is moving in and through us as we love, equip, and send and I can’t imagine anything more exciting.
So What?
The Kingdom of God is filled with paradox the world does not (always) understand. The more we decrease, the more God can increase. When we are weak, He is strong. When we die to our own ego and agenda, we can truly live the abundant life Jesus offers. Where are you weak? Where do you need to die?
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
May this be our declaration as we love, equip, and send.
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
September 21, 2025
Philippians 1:12-26
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: The Kingdom of God is filled with paradox the world does not (always) understand.
Paradox is a statement that appears contradictory but actually describes a deeper truth. One of the most popular examples is less is more.
The Bible is filled with paradox, which explains why following Jesus is the original alternative lifestyle. It is radical. It is counter-cultural. We are not to live like the world lives because we are not of this world. We are citizens of what appears to be an upside-down kingdom, the Kingdom of God.
Jesus said, “The first shall be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 20:16)
Paul said, “When I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)
Today we continue our series on the book of Philippians, a short letter written by Paul to one of the first churches he started in modern day Greece. He’s writing from an unknown prison and the theme of the letter—paradoxically—is joy.
Have you ever been imprisoned? Most of us have not been held in physical chains, but many of us have been in bondage, whether it’s to fear, addiction, mental illness, debt, loneliness, anxiety, hatred, or shame.
Paul is physically imprisoned for proclaiming the gospel, the good news that Jesus is LORD. You would think that prison would stop his ministry, but Paul says otherwise.
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. (Philippians 1:12-14)
Do you see the paradox? Paul is arrested for preaching good news and now possibly thousands of soldiers (the whole palace guard) learn about him and his message. Chains may or may not have been literal, but he was imprisoned and suffering physically.
For two thousand years, tens of millions of Christians have been persecuted for their faith, many even martyred. Roughly 4000-6000 are killed for faith-related reasons every year. North African Tertullian in the second-century said “The blood of Christians is seed,” meaning “the blood of martyrs is the seed of the church.” When you try to stop us, it will only strengthen and expand our movement.
Paul understood this. Amazingly, even in prison, he was not concerned about his well-being, but rather the Kingdom of God. He understood these words of Jesus:
Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. (Luke 9:23-24)
Every human experiences seasons of growth, from drinking to eating to crawling to walking to running. Spiritual growth has its own steps. Jesus began his public ministry by inviting people to “come and see.” Over time, he challenged them to greater maturity, culminating with “come and die”…in order to truly live.
Do you understand this? Are you experiencing this? If you’re like me, you wonder if it’s even possible. After all, we’re taught in our culture to be independent, to do whatever feels good, to declare our rights, and pursue happiness, safety, and comfort. But this is not the way of Jesus…or Paul. Their chief concern is the Kingdom of God.
It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. (Philippians 1:15-17)
Motivates matter, right? Not according to Paul in this instance!
But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. (Philippians 1:18a)
Paul doesn’t care. The gospel, the good news that Jesus is LORD, is being preached. Here the message is more than the medium, in this case likely competitors of Paul preaching the pure gospel with selfish motives. He then says,
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, (Philippians 1:18b)
He’s really rejoicing…in prison…in chains. Why?
for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. (Philippians 1:19)
There it is…Paul’s deliverance, whether it’s release from prison or eternal salvation.
Notice the two things that will turn out for his deliverance: the prayers of the Philippians and the Holy Spirit.
It’s a mystery the role we play and the role God plays in miracles, in the supernatural, in the transformation of lives.
I often think of it like sailing. Heather and I had a sailing class in college, the last class of the week on Friday afternoon we got to go sailing. There are two parts to sailing: the wind and the sail. If there’s no wind, you won’t move much. If the sail is not in the right position, you won’t move much…or at least not in the right direction! It’s a both-and.
The Greek word for the Holy Spirit, pneuma, literally means wind. I like to think our prayers are like putting up the sails. When we pray and the Spirit moves, there’s motion, movement, transformation.
Does God need us? Of course not, but He chooses to involve us in His work, His mission. We are His ambassadors on planet earth, re-presenting Him to others. Incredible!
Paul rejoiced at the prayers of the Philippians and the provision of the Spirit.
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. (Philippians 1:20)
“Paul, you’re in prison for your faith. Don’t worry about being ashamed. You are obviously a man of great courage.” Are we courageous about our faith…or ashamed? Jesus hung up for us. Can we stand up for him? Can we tell our story…His-tory? Paul didn’t care about himself. All that mattered was God’s glory, Christ exalted. He explicitly said,
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
Paradox!
We’re all going to die someday. The question is how will we live. Paul has already given up his life, his agenda, his will, his rights to Jesus. Every day he declared in word and deed, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done.” Did you know there’s tremendous freedom in letting go? Fully surrendered people don’t worry about…anything! If it’s all about Jesus, it’s up to him whether we live or die, so there’s nothing we need to protect, maintain, or stress about. It’s in His hands…even our very lives.
Do our lives matter? Absolutely! You were created in the image of God with dignity, value, and worth. But you were made by God, for God, and for God’s glory.
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ephesians 2:10, NLT)
Here’s Paul’s explanation of “should I stay or should I go?”
If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. (Philippians 1:22-24)
I feel this. I can’t wait to meet Jesus face to face, but my mission has not yet been accomplished…and neither has yours! We have work to do.
Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me. (Philippians 1:25-26)
Like a good pastor, Paul loves his flock, his sheep, his disciples. He cares for them, encourages them, and finds joy in their maturity.
I can relate. College First, when I hear stories of people taking next steps with God I rejoice. Whenever a selfish sinner surrenders to Jesus, I celebrate…with all of the angels, by the way! I love you and love to see what God is doing in and through us—not me, but us. Together. Jesus is building his church! Each of us has a part to play, a gift to use…not for our glory but God’s.
Thank you…for praying, inviting, serving, and investing. God is moving in and through us as we love, equip, and send and I can’t imagine anything more exciting.
So What?
The Kingdom of God is filled with paradox the world does not (always) understand. The more we decrease, the more God can increase. When we are weak, He is strong. When we die to our own ego and agenda, we can truly live the abundant life Jesus offers. Where are you weak? Where do you need to die?
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
May this be our declaration as we love, equip, and send.
Thanks, 14 September 2025
14 09 25
Thanks
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
September 14, 2025
Philippians 1:1-11
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: Paul expresses his gratitude and love for the church he started years earlier.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 1:1-6
Thank you. Few words are more powerful. Few words are more important. Echoing today’s scripture reading, I want to begin by saying College First Church of God, I thank my God every time I remember you.
Today we’re beginning a new series on the book of Philippians. It’s a letter written by Paul to early Christians in the city of Philippi in modern day Greece. Heather and I were privileged to visit Philippi in 2016. The ruins they have uncovered are amazing, and new discoveries continue to be made.
Before diving in, let me set the scene. Philippi was the first European place to hear about Jesus the Messiah. Acts 16 tells us about Paul’s first visit to Philippi and as we’ll see, the people there brought him great joy, arguably the central theme of the book. This letter was written by Paul while a prisoner in what is probably Ephesus in modern day Turkey. This church has sent him money which was essential since captors rarely provided food to prisoners.
Writing about joy from prison—an ancient prison without cable TV and air conditioning, mind you—seems unbelievable. How can you have joy in the midst of such suffering? It truly is a God-thing. As someone once said, it is well with my soul, but not my circumstances. If you can relate, you’re going to love this short book.
Let’s begin:
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (Philippians 1:1)
Paul wrote this letter to the Philippian church between 56 and 62 AD. His disciple, Timothy, is a co-author and had a relationship with this congregation. Philippi at this time was a Roman colony and most of its citizens were Romans.
This church began during the second missionary journey of Paul. Typically, he begin planting a church by preaching in the synagogue, but there were so few Jews in Philippi that they had no synagogue. There were, however, a group of godly women who would gather on the Sabbath by the banks of the river Gangites to recite prayers. Paul joined them and met Lydia, a successful businesswoman who traded purple cloth.
When Paul performed an exorcism on a fortune-telling slave girl, her owners had Paul and Silas thrown into jail when they realized she could no longer make them money. They have a hymn sing that night, an earthquake opens the jail, the jailer and his family become Christians, and they’re released the next day when it is discovered Paul and Silas were Roman citizens. There’s much more to the story in Acts 16 and beyond, but that’s a bit about the founding of this Philippian church.
Years later now, Paul is in another prison, though the location is up for debate since he was in at least four prisons for boldly preaching the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. His friend, Epaphroditus, visits Paul with a gift, and Paul sends this letter back to the Philippian church.
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:2)
This is Paul’s standard greeting in his letters, found in 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Colossians, and others. Grace is unmerited favor. It’s a gift. It’s amazing!
Peace is…peace, quietness, rest.
Jesus Christ, of course, is the center of this book, of Paul, of College First Church of God, of the universe! There’s a poem in Philippians 2:6-11 which is at the core of Philippians, a passage about Jesus the Messiah which we’ll cover later in our sermon series.
I thank my God every time I remember you. (Philippians 1:3)
I said this last Sunday and I’ll say it again…College First, I thank God for you. Fortunately, I’m not telling you through a letter written in prison! It’s a joy to be in Findlay, to do life together, to be on mission together to love, equip, and send in the name of Jesus.
In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:4-6)
Paul prays with joy. He always prays with joy when he prays for them. If you know anything about Paul’s other writings, he’s not always pleased with his recipients! This church, though, is special as they have been generous to him and faithful to the LORD.
It’s important to note the day of Christ Jesus is coming. It seemed like it would happen any day, and 2000 years later we’re about 750,000 days closer!
Don’t miss this: God will finish what He starts…but it usually takes time…and He’s got all the time in the world! I’ve been impatient so many times in my life, wondering if God will answer prayer, come through, fulfill His promises. He always does. God can be trusted…completely. He sees you. He loves you. He wants to do life with you.
I know some of you have experience church hurt. I’ve heard stories about abuse, neglect, injustice, and suffering. Your story is not over. Seek help. Get connected in a small group. You’re not the only one. But be encouraged, the best is yet to come.
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. 8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:7-8)
We often downplay emotions in our western society, but Paul not only has deep feelings for his readers, he defends his feelings. God gave us emotions. Jesus wept. He sweated drops of blood. He knows pain and suffering. He also knows deep love.
Likewise, Paul is following in the footsteps of Jesus. We can’t always trust our emotions, especially if we are hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (HALT). Make a note of that. That’s when you’re most likely to be tempted to sin.
But Paul’s expressing his love and longing for them.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11)
Paul prays three things. First, that their love will overflow in knowledge and wisdom. Love should always be the first characteristic of a Jesus follower. If we’re known more for anything other than love, we have some work to do. Rather, we have some surrender to do to receive and experience God’s love and then share it. I alluded to this last week.
If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3, NLT)
Paul prays for discernment. When people ask how they can pray for me, when there’s nothing urgent, I ask for wisdom and discernment. I don’t know what I’m doing as a lead pastor! I don’t know what I’m doing as a husband or dad or even friend! I need discernment…for myself and those I lead. When our Elders and other leaders gather, I often say, “We’re not here to decide anything, but rather to discern what God is saying and how He is directing.”
Our Elders have our monthly meeting this week and I would be grateful for your prayers.
Finally, Paul prays that they would be filled with righteousness…right living. That’s a great prayer. Imagine if all Christians were known for their love, discernment, and right living.
So What?
It’s possible to have joy…even in prison.
It is good to offer thanks to God for others.
Christ is coming soon and we need to be ready…and help others get ready.
In closing, let me personalize these final verses from the New Living Translation.
College First, I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. 10 For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. 11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (NLT)
Kirk Schneemann
Joy: Book of Philippians
College First Church of God
September 14, 2025
Philippians 1:1-11
Series Big Idea: Philippians reminds us we can experience joy no matter the circumstances.
Big Idea: Paul expresses his gratitude and love for the church he started years earlier.
Scripture Reading: Philippians 1:1-6
Thank you. Few words are more powerful. Few words are more important. Echoing today’s scripture reading, I want to begin by saying College First Church of God, I thank my God every time I remember you.
Today we’re beginning a new series on the book of Philippians. It’s a letter written by Paul to early Christians in the city of Philippi in modern day Greece. Heather and I were privileged to visit Philippi in 2016. The ruins they have uncovered are amazing, and new discoveries continue to be made.
Before diving in, let me set the scene. Philippi was the first European place to hear about Jesus the Messiah. Acts 16 tells us about Paul’s first visit to Philippi and as we’ll see, the people there brought him great joy, arguably the central theme of the book. This letter was written by Paul while a prisoner in what is probably Ephesus in modern day Turkey. This church has sent him money which was essential since captors rarely provided food to prisoners.
Writing about joy from prison—an ancient prison without cable TV and air conditioning, mind you—seems unbelievable. How can you have joy in the midst of such suffering? It truly is a God-thing. As someone once said, it is well with my soul, but not my circumstances. If you can relate, you’re going to love this short book.
Let’s begin:
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (Philippians 1:1)
Paul wrote this letter to the Philippian church between 56 and 62 AD. His disciple, Timothy, is a co-author and had a relationship with this congregation. Philippi at this time was a Roman colony and most of its citizens were Romans.
This church began during the second missionary journey of Paul. Typically, he begin planting a church by preaching in the synagogue, but there were so few Jews in Philippi that they had no synagogue. There were, however, a group of godly women who would gather on the Sabbath by the banks of the river Gangites to recite prayers. Paul joined them and met Lydia, a successful businesswoman who traded purple cloth.
When Paul performed an exorcism on a fortune-telling slave girl, her owners had Paul and Silas thrown into jail when they realized she could no longer make them money. They have a hymn sing that night, an earthquake opens the jail, the jailer and his family become Christians, and they’re released the next day when it is discovered Paul and Silas were Roman citizens. There’s much more to the story in Acts 16 and beyond, but that’s a bit about the founding of this Philippian church.
Years later now, Paul is in another prison, though the location is up for debate since he was in at least four prisons for boldly preaching the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. His friend, Epaphroditus, visits Paul with a gift, and Paul sends this letter back to the Philippian church.
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:2)
This is Paul’s standard greeting in his letters, found in 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Colossians, and others. Grace is unmerited favor. It’s a gift. It’s amazing!
Peace is…peace, quietness, rest.
Jesus Christ, of course, is the center of this book, of Paul, of College First Church of God, of the universe! There’s a poem in Philippians 2:6-11 which is at the core of Philippians, a passage about Jesus the Messiah which we’ll cover later in our sermon series.
I thank my God every time I remember you. (Philippians 1:3)
I said this last Sunday and I’ll say it again…College First, I thank God for you. Fortunately, I’m not telling you through a letter written in prison! It’s a joy to be in Findlay, to do life together, to be on mission together to love, equip, and send in the name of Jesus.
In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:4-6)
Paul prays with joy. He always prays with joy when he prays for them. If you know anything about Paul’s other writings, he’s not always pleased with his recipients! This church, though, is special as they have been generous to him and faithful to the LORD.
It’s important to note the day of Christ Jesus is coming. It seemed like it would happen any day, and 2000 years later we’re about 750,000 days closer!
Don’t miss this: God will finish what He starts…but it usually takes time…and He’s got all the time in the world! I’ve been impatient so many times in my life, wondering if God will answer prayer, come through, fulfill His promises. He always does. God can be trusted…completely. He sees you. He loves you. He wants to do life with you.
I know some of you have experience church hurt. I’ve heard stories about abuse, neglect, injustice, and suffering. Your story is not over. Seek help. Get connected in a small group. You’re not the only one. But be encouraged, the best is yet to come.
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. 8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:7-8)
We often downplay emotions in our western society, but Paul not only has deep feelings for his readers, he defends his feelings. God gave us emotions. Jesus wept. He sweated drops of blood. He knows pain and suffering. He also knows deep love.
Likewise, Paul is following in the footsteps of Jesus. We can’t always trust our emotions, especially if we are hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (HALT). Make a note of that. That’s when you’re most likely to be tempted to sin.
But Paul’s expressing his love and longing for them.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11)
Paul prays three things. First, that their love will overflow in knowledge and wisdom. Love should always be the first characteristic of a Jesus follower. If we’re known more for anything other than love, we have some work to do. Rather, we have some surrender to do to receive and experience God’s love and then share it. I alluded to this last week.
If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:1-3, NLT)
Paul prays for discernment. When people ask how they can pray for me, when there’s nothing urgent, I ask for wisdom and discernment. I don’t know what I’m doing as a lead pastor! I don’t know what I’m doing as a husband or dad or even friend! I need discernment…for myself and those I lead. When our Elders and other leaders gather, I often say, “We’re not here to decide anything, but rather to discern what God is saying and how He is directing.”
Our Elders have our monthly meeting this week and I would be grateful for your prayers.
Finally, Paul prays that they would be filled with righteousness…right living. That’s a great prayer. Imagine if all Christians were known for their love, discernment, and right living.
So What?
It’s possible to have joy…even in prison.
It is good to offer thanks to God for others.
Christ is coming soon and we need to be ready…and help others get ready.
In closing, let me personalize these final verses from the New Living Translation.
College First, I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. 10 For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. 11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (NLT)