Unity and Care - 3rd of Philippians Series

Paul speaks of a great controversy in his spirit. He outlines the current struggles that he must endure. It seems that he has a full plate, yet he immediately follows these things with this concern:

Philippians 2:1-4 (KJV)

[1] Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, [2] fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. [3] Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. [4] Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

He shows concern for the behavior of the Body of Christ. Nowadays, people would fight back with “Matthew 7 says not to judge!!” Paul, however, cared about the believers’ eternity. He exemplifies that it is important to correct others in a Godly manner.

This passage reveals the importance of living in unity. “If there is any” implies that unity should come immediately. There need not be enormous amounts of understanding or experience, rather, if there is any consolation, any comfort of love, any fellowship of the Spirit, any affection of mercy then there must be unity. The Church, no matter denomination or location, should have the same Lord, same Savior, same King and the same goal. A like-minded attitude among believers who express the same love and live in one accord helps to foster the work of the Lord’s people.

We can also see that each person should serve others above themselves. Many times, we may hear, “you have to take care of yourself before you can help them.” And while taking care of yourself is biblical, the Body of Christ should be serving others above themselves. While tending to our own needs, we must watch out for our brothers and sister in Christ. The Church is called to function stronger than a family. Esteeming others as better than yourself means that you hold their needs and wants above your own no matter the situation.

Both unity and humble care for others are difficult to master. These do not come naturally, as our flesh is selfish. Despite this, through our openness and the working of God’s Spirit, they can be grafted into our actions and personality. We need to seek the Lord and pray that these attributes become part of who we are.