"No Complaints"

EPISODE 51

Unite in Purpose as His Church

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Some folks just love to complain! From "one star" reviews on Yelp, to people's sprawling social media tirades, it's not hard to find someone with a bone to pick.

The church in Philippi was a shining example of a group of Christians working together in unity. Unlike many of Paul's other letters, he has no complaints about them. So let's look at four aspects of their faith that made them such a thriving congregation.

They Were Grounded

"Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel" (Phil. 1:27).

The gospel is our focus. It's tempting to get distracted by the color of the carpet or the temperature of the building. But our focus as believers is on defending and spreading the gospel of Christ. Stay focused on your real purpose as Jesus' disciple.

They Were Glad

"Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise, you also should be glad and rejoice with me" (Phil. 2:17-18).

We have a joy for each other and in the Lord. Joy is an attractive quality. When others see your enthusiasm, they want to join in with you. And our joy isn't a show or an act, but it flows out of a pure and loving heart.

They Were Generous

"Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. ... I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God" (Phil. 4:14, 18).

We find ways to help others. And we don't have to look too hard to see people in need around us. We're continually looking for more opportunities to be generous and helpful towards those in need. So how can we use our time, money, and energy to support the spread of the gospel?

They Were Growing

"And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment ... filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" (Phil. 1:9-11).

When we're busy with his work, we'll grow in joy and faith. A byproduct of action is an increasing desire for more action. It's inertia. It's momentum. And so we need to start the ball rolling if it's not already, and continue to increase our joy and faith in Christ.

May God help us become a unified church like the Philippians today, grounded, glad, generous, and growing.