Peace Among Us
Series: Philippians
February 28, 2021
Frank Foreman
Peace is such an elusive condition.It is hard to imagine, for instance, that our world will ever achieve lasting total peace. It seems that people have dissension within their nature. Of course, believers are called to strive to develop and model a more "Godly nature." --------------- The Apostle Paul spoke plainly to two women in the Philippian church, pleading for them to put aside differences of opinion and make a commitment to unity. It was vital to their relationship but also to the church as a whole. --------------- This week, Frank opens up the fourth chapter of Philippians and shares truths that are still applicable today as we pray for and strive for peace in our church family.
Episode Notes
Pause: With so many interested in peace, why do we always seem so far from it?
Proverbs 6:16-19, There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are an abomination to Him... one who sows discord among brothers.
Matthew 18:15, If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.
Titus 3:10-11, As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
Pause: Why is God so harsh with Christian quarreling?
Big Idea: Real and lasting peace is found in the Lord.
Pause: What does it mean to be “in the Lord?”
1. Agree in the Lord.
Verses 2-3, I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the Gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.
Philippians 2:2, ...complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Disunity destroys the integrity of the church’s testimony.
Romans 15:5-6, May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Rejoice in the Lord.
Verses 4-5, Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand...
Paul calls all of us to be reasonable and generous with each other.
Philippians 3:1, Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord.
Psalm 119:151, But You are near, O Lord, and all Your commandments are true.
James 4:8, Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.
3. Find peace in the Lord.
Verses 6-7, ...do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Worry shows a lack of trust in God’s wisdom and power.
Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.
Next Step: Find peace through a maturing prayer life.
- Matthew 6:6
- 1st Peter 3:7
- Ephesians 6:4
- James 5:16
- Acts 6:4
- 1st Corinthians 14:16
- Matthew 15:8-9
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