Word@Work Phil37 - Philippians 3:17
Published: Fri, 11/13/09
Word@Work from BeaconLight
APOSTOLIC EXAMPLE
Phil. 3:17 Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. (NIV)
Christian maturity does not come automatically, nor simply with the passage of time. Three essential inputs are required: teaching, example and discipline. Without seeing the Jesus-way-of-life in others, it is difficult to appreciate the radically different style of living which comes through the Spirit's power. But without teaching we will never be able to understand how to engage with God's grace in order to live differently. Many try to 'live a good life' by copying good examples, but that is all it is - imitating 'in the flesh' but without the power which comes from the Spirit. But even the Spirit's work is frustrated unless we discipline ourselves in obedience.
Paul had just given them God's explanation about this way of life (see Phil 3:7-14). All Paul's letters have two parts, the 'theory' and then the 'practice'. And he is very specific in instructing husbands, wives, children, employers, employees, rich, poor, refugees, city folk, the suffering, the persecuted, the old, the young. He talks about business and money, sex and relationships, the church and the world, heaven and hell: but all in the context of knowing Jesus. Now he says that God had enabled him to put his own teaching into practice. Despite his personal weaknesses (see Rom 7:18-25) the way he lived, was an example to others, and they become a model for others too.
Although teaching without example is sterile (it is unable to reproduce spiritual life), when the teaching and the example match each other, the gospel is validated. Despite the sin in every believer, there are plenty of good examples to follow, and much opportunity to be a role model to others. Take time to observe those who are following after Jesus, and be encouraged that you can also live with their confidence, peace and joy. Abandon the careless which gives Jesus a bad name. Follow Him as the Apostles did; knowing that the Bible gives you understanding, the Holy Spirit gives you the strength and wisdom, and your decision to keep cooperating with the Lord helps to establish the necessary disciplines in life. That kind of believer is literally the 'salt of the earth' (see Matt 5:13).
Prayer: Father God. Thank You for giving me examples of godly living in the Bible and in the church. Help me to understand how to live for You, and then obey You, relying on Your Spirit's help as I discipline myself to live to Your praise and glory. May I become a good example to other believers and to those who are looking to see the gospel lived out authentically. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages
Christian maturity does not come automatically, nor simply with the passage of time. Three essential inputs are required: teaching, example and discipline. Without seeing the Jesus-way-of-life in others, it is difficult to appreciate the radically different style of living which comes through the Spirit's power. But without teaching we will never be able to understand how to engage with God's grace in order to live differently. Many try to 'live a good life' by copying good examples, but that is all it is - imitating 'in the flesh' but without the power which comes from the Spirit. But even the Spirit's work is frustrated unless we discipline ourselves in obedience.
Paul had just given them God's explanation about this way of life (see Phil 3:7-14). All Paul's letters have two parts, the 'theory' and then the 'practice'. And he is very specific in instructing husbands, wives, children, employers, employees, rich, poor, refugees, city folk, the suffering, the persecuted, the old, the young. He talks about business and money, sex and relationships, the church and the world, heaven and hell: but all in the context of knowing Jesus. Now he says that God had enabled him to put his own teaching into practice. Despite his personal weaknesses (see Rom 7:18-25) the way he lived, was an example to others, and they become a model for others too.
Although teaching without example is sterile (it is unable to reproduce spiritual life), when the teaching and the example match each other, the gospel is validated. Despite the sin in every believer, there are plenty of good examples to follow, and much opportunity to be a role model to others. Take time to observe those who are following after Jesus, and be encouraged that you can also live with their confidence, peace and joy. Abandon the careless which gives Jesus a bad name. Follow Him as the Apostles did; knowing that the Bible gives you understanding, the Holy Spirit gives you the strength and wisdom, and your decision to keep cooperating with the Lord helps to establish the necessary disciplines in life. That kind of believer is literally the 'salt of the earth' (see Matt 5:13).
Prayer: Father God. Thank You for giving me examples of godly living in the Bible and in the church. Help me to understand how to live for You, and then obey You, relying on Your Spirit's help as I discipline myself to live to Your praise and glory. May I become a good example to other believers and to those who are looking to see the gospel lived out authentically. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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