Community Group Guide the Church at Martinsburg Paradox: An (un)Natural Response to Natural Circumstances Philippians 1:1-2 Pastor Jacob Atchley May 3, 2015

Introducing the Sermon Series

A paradox is a statement or proposition that seems self-contradictory or absurd but, in reality, expresses a possible truth. The book of Philippians communicates a series of paradoxes: joy in the midst of suffering, unity in the midst of diversity, freedom in the midst of imprisonment, contentment in the midst of turmoil. These are only a few.

The apostle Paul wrote this epistle to the church at while he was in prison. The Philippians had sent one of their own, Epaphroditus, to take support to Paul. In turn, Paul supports them through this joy-filled letter.

Central Themes in Philippians

1. Joy

Paul remembers them joyfully in prayer “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy” (1:3-4)

He rejoices at the proclamation and spread of the gospel “What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice.” (1:18)

The goal of his ministry was the saints’ progress and joy in the faith “Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.” (1:25)

He encourages them that joy comes through harmony with one another “…complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” (2:2)

He rejoices at their concern for him “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me…” (4:10)

He wants them to rejoice over each other “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.” 1 (2:17-18) “I am more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious, so receive him in the Lord with all joy…” (28-29)

He encourages them that joy is the hallmark of the believer for all times and in all things “Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord…” (3:1) “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (4:4)

It is quite paradoxical that in a time of great hardship and persecution from every side, Paul was joyful. We can take note of Paul’s spiritual maturity. At a time in life filled with joy.

2. Gospel Focus

The Philippians were partners with Paul in the gospel “…because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” (1:5) “It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.” (1:7) “I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel…” (3:3)

Paul’s imprisonment served to advance the gospel “I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel…” (1:12)

Paul was commissioned for the defense of the gospel “The Latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.” (1:16)

Paul admonished the Philippians to be worthy of the gospel “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…” (1:27)

Timothy served with Paul in the gospel ““But you know Timothy’s proven worth, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel.” (2:22)

Amazingly, in the defense and proclamation of the gospel, Paul was persecuted and imprisoned, but the very efforts of the world to dissuade him from God’s mission and to squash the spread of the gospel were the very means of the advancement of the gospel and Paul’s spiritual maturity.

3. Christ-Like Mind

They were encouraged to have one mind or the same mind “…I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind…” (1:27) “…complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” (2:2)

2 They were commanded to have “this mind” – Christ’s mind – a mind of humility and obedience “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” (2:5)

They are warned not to set their minds on earthly things “Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.” (3:19)

The peace of God guards hearts and minds in Christ Jesus “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (4:7)

They are exhorted to think about worthy things “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.” (4:8)

4. Prayer

Paul thanked God and prayed for those in gospel partnership with him “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” (1:3-5)

Paul prayed for their love to abound “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment…” (1:9)

The Philippians prayed for Paul’s deliverance “for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance…” (1:19)

Paul exhorts to let their requests be made known to God “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (4:6-7)

Scripture Passage Have a volunteer read the following scripture passage(s).

Philippians 1:1-2

[1] Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: [2] Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3 Discussion Questions Unpack the biblical text to discover what the Scripture says or means.

1. What fuels Paul’s joy for the Philippian church? Consider Philippians 1:6-8.

2. In the midst of overwhelming circumstances, how can Paul (and other Christians) “rejoice in the Lord always”? (Phil. 4:4) How does the gospel secure for Christians lasting joy?

3. Paul rejoices over others (Phil. 2:17-18, 28-29). Do you rejoice over your brothers and sisters in Christ? If so, how do you rejoice? If not, why?

4. How is Paul’s imprisonment and suffering used by God for good? Consider Philippians 1:14 and Romans 8:28.

5. In what ways have you experienced gospel paradoxes (joy in the midst of suffering, unity in the midst of diversity, freedom in the midst of imprisonment, contentment in the midst of turmoil)?

Prayer As you pray with your group, consider praying for the following things:

• Any personal requests. Pray for the personal requests that may have been shared in your group.

• A desire to have the Word of Christ dwelling richly in the hearts of your fellow group members (Col. 3:16).

• Ask the Lord to help you keep your mind set on Christ so you may experience the paradoxes of life with Christ.

Weekly Scriptures Encourage your group members to consistently read Scripture. The daily Scripture reading plan from the church is be a helpful place to start.

Monday - Philippians 1 Thursday - Philippians 4 Tuesday - Philippians 2 Friday – Acts 16 Wednesday - Philippians 3 Saturday – Psalm 16

Weekly Update Remind your group of some of the important things coming up for the church.

Upcoming events:

• May 10th: Parent/Child Dedication • July 19th: Baptism Celebration

4 Follow-up Midway through this week, send a follow-up email, text, etc. to your group with some or all of the following:

• A note of encouragement, following up on any specific prayer requests mentioned during your group gathering.

• Encourage individual members of your group with specific passages of scripture that deal with something they might be experiencing.

• Challenge your group members to read through the entire book of Philippians this week.

• A reminder to pray for the requests made during your group time.

Commentary

Philippians 1:1-2

Paul, along with Timothy, gives the standard early Christian greeting of grace and peace. Paul does not identify himself as an apostle but designates Timothy and himself as servants. The emphasis on service anticipates the rest of the letter, and this emphasis is seen especially in what is said of the humiliation of Christ Jesus (2:5–11). It is uncertain what level of formal church governance is implied by overseers and deacons. The former are presumably elders, who would be charged with spiritual oversight of the congregation (cf. Acts 14:23; 20:17, 28; 1 Tim. 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; James 5:14; 1 Pet. 5:1–4), while the latter would be entrusted with matters of practical service (cf. Acts 6:1–7; 1 Tim. 3:8–13).

Philippi: The City and Its People

Located in the northeast part of the Roman province of Macedonia, Philippi was a strategic city. It possessed an abundance of natural resources such as water supplies, wood, metals, and most importantly, extensive gold mines on the Hill of Dionysus. The most conspicuous landmark of the city was a 750-foot rock cliff adorned with sculpted reliefs that depicted the religious cults of that time. 800 miles from Rome and only 10 miles from a seaport, Philippi was a prime spot for commerce. The history of Philippi is very well recorded. The New American Commentary gives us this fascinating description: “Philippi had a long, varied history. The occurrence of several name changes may be indicative of its importance. Many scholars suggest the earliest name was Tasibasta, ‘the place of the Thasians,’ and some believe the city was also called . All agree that the ancient name was , ‘fountains’ or ‘springs,’ a name given because of the abundant water supply there. The city rose to prominence when it became the capital of the Greek empire. In 359/358 B.C., Philip II of Macedon gained control of the city after the residents appealed to him for help against the neighboring . He renamed the city Philippi, the first time a city had been named for its benefactor. With the resources there, especially gold

5 and timber, Philip dreamed of uniting Greece and conquering the world. His untimely death ended his plans, but his son Alexander, inherited his vision. At the age of nineteen, Alexander ventured from Philippi and in twelve years established a world dominion for the Greeks. Philippi became the showpiece of Greek culture, and Alexander devoted significant energies to its development. About two hundred years later, Roman soldiers conquered Macedonia (168 B.C.). They divided the territory into four districts, each having its own legislature, and discontinued the mining operations. The city’s significance diminished until about 40 B.C., following the battle of Philippi. Civil war broke out following Julius Caesar’s death in 44 B.C. Antony and Octavian fought Brutus and Cassius on the plains near the city. Two battles ensued. Antony’s army defeated Cassius first, and two weeks later Octavian defeated Brutus. Antony and Octavian disbanded their armies and established a colony at Philippi in 42 B.C. and in 30 B.C., respectively. The city was revived by army veterans, giving the city a predominant Italian flavor. Additionally, Octavian conferred upon it the ius Italicum, giving the colonists the same privileges and rights as those who lived in Italy. Although Roman colonies emulated Rome, each enjoyed considerable self- government. Colonies elected their officials in pairs: two duumviri (judicial and political figures), two aediles territorium composed of land surrounding the city. Philippi’s territorium consisted of 730 square miles which encompassed many small villages. This made the city significant to the area, but Macedonia had five other colonies. Philippi never attained the status of Thessalonica, the principal city of the province, located 100 miles away.”1

1 Melick, R. R. (1991). Vol. 32: Philippians, Colossians, Philemon. The New American Commentary (22–24). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers. 6