GOD AT WORK

Philippians

Introduction:

1. Philippians: a joyful letter to a healthy – but very normal – congregation.

2. How it’s possible: confidence in the continuing work of God.

3. Providence: a theme for which we hunger.

Discussion:

1. The tone this letter sets

a. Phil. 2:12 – “work out your own salvation”

b. Phil. 2:13 – “for it is God who works in you”

2. The theme throughout the letter

a. 1:6 – “he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion”

b. 1:12-14 – “what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel”

c. 1:28 – “but of your salvation, and that from God.”

d. 2:27 – “but God had mercy on him”

e. 3:14 – “for the prize of the upward call of God”

f. 3:15 – “if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also”

g. 4:6 – “but in everything...let your requests be made known to God”

h. 4:7 – “the peace of God...will guard your hearts and minds”

i. 4:9 – “practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you”

j. 4:13 – “through him who strengthens me”

k. 4:18 – “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God”

l. 4:19 – “my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches”

3. The truth of the letter applied

a. God’s work in the interest of his people never ceases.

b. God works for the good of his people overall.

c. God works in cooperation with his obedient servants.

Conclusion:

1. The model is what he has done through Christ.

2. The outcome is the glory our God and Father.

3. The church at Philippi began through the work of God.