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There’s only ever been two types of character in the Bible – God and the Devil; Heaven and Earth; Man and Christ; The Spirit and the Flesh; Enemies of the cross and those who embrace it; Philippians 3:15-21 warns us of the way of man and encourages with the hope for those in Christ.

We don’t just want to exist. We want to live…to feel alive. We mostly go looking for life through our achievements or fleshly pursuits. While it promises much, it never delivers. Paul teaches that experiencing true life comes from knowing Jesus.

Paul writes to the Philippians to instruct them that believers who are motivated by their love of Jesus serve and suffer for others good and the advancement of the gospel, in light of the day of Christ.

How are we to view obedience as a Christian? We need to be careful not to stray into legalism at one end or apathy at the other. God has given us the gift of his Son and freed us from the curse of death. But with great freedom comes great responsibility. Thankfully, God is working in us to reflect the light of Christ for his good pleasure.

Gospel-centred humility is not only an aspect of living a life worthy of the Gospel of Christ, but paramount to strengthening and safeguarding the unity of the church. The Apostle Paul encourages the Philippian church to look to the self-sacrificing humility of Jesus - both for their encouragement and as an example for how they should relate to one another.

How does a Christian live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ when suffering and persecution come? The Apostle Paul encourages the Philippian church to stand firm and not be frightened in light of two significant reasons.

The Gospel shapes how we view and endure suffering. Looking at Paul’s imprisonment and his opponents, we see that suffering is meaningful under a sovereign God. It can be an opportunity for the Gospel to grow, strengthen believers, and deepen trust in Christ. Despite the pain and confusion of suffering, we can trust that God redeems it for His glory and our good. Remember, Jesus suffered too, encouraging us to persevere, knowing He understands, sustains, and is with us through pain. In life or death, Christ remains our hope, peace, and greatest prize.

Christ-like affection toward one another produces prayers that build each other up for God’s glory.

The Philippian church was an ‘accidental’ church that partnered with Paul for the sake of the gospel. Paul writes to them to remind them of the complete sufficiency of Jesus Christ for the believer in all circumstances.

A confident declaration that the gospel is God’s powerful means of salvation for everyone who believes. Christ’s work on the cross was so powerful and complete that it covers our past, present and future sins.