Scripture Focus (Philippians 4:1-9) – “Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. [2] I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. [3] 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. [4] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. [5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [8] Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. [9] What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
Protection Against Relational Bitterness (1-3)
Concerning relationships at the end of the age, Jesus says in Matthew 24:10 – “Many will be offended.”
Jesus warns that in the last days, intense pressure, persecution, deception, and rampant lawlessness will cause many who once professed faith to become deeply offended – at God, at the church, at circumstances, or at the cost of following Christ.
WE MUST MILITANTLY GUARD OUR HEARTS AGAINST EVERY FORM OF BITTERNESS
A. Something to remember together (1) – “Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.”
We are spiritual siblings, called unto family love in Jesus
B. Something to pursue together (2) – “I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.”
We must submit the tension of our disagreements to the greater strength of our unity in the Lord. Those who have denied themselves, taken up their crosses, and are following Jesus do not fight for self.
C. Something to guard together (3) – “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.”
We should be agents of reconciliation wherever division appears in the Body of Christ