Wednesday Service #52 Ephesians 6 Philippians 1-2 By Josh Monday

We have MDMP twenty two. Thank you, j Con forty four to twenty, thank you, and Brad Gillis, thank you right, get some rest in the family, yes, exactly, family time, Yeah, Amen to that. And then we have Wednesday Service people that commenter we had seven thank god, MDMP twenty two b thank you, Brad Gillis, whiskers white and no poop scoop. I always liked that so true it said I really needed this, It was really help. Words that fit in my life right now, like to not hold onto anger, Yes,

thank you for sharing the word. Yes, amen, so true. Holding onto anger is definitely a kin to drinking poison, to watch a hated person die. Yes, yes, amen, I'm glad that these studies are helping and assisting. All glory to God for that. But yeah, so this week has been cool. It's been super rainy and super windy here in southern California. A lot of wind, well here in not so much wind just in southern California, but a lot of wind here in rialto where I live, lots

of wind. It's been crazy. But hopefully you guys had an awesome week. Hopefully you had fun with your families during the holidays. We have New Year's coming up this week, so everybody that's listening b K careful, be safe, keep your family safe, and when you're driving on a you know, if you end up driving on New Year's then just just be be careful, you know, be safe because you know there's a lot of drug drivers driving, people that are intoxicated different substances, So just try to be safe

as you can. And what an amazing, amazing time to get to have by doing these Bible studies. And I appreciate everybody that's listening to the ship. So without further ado, let me just jump into the intro for Ephesians six real quick. It says Aphesian six concludes the epistle with practical guidance on family and societal relationships, followed by a vivid description of the spiritual battle Christians are engaged in.

It introduces the full armor of God, which believers must dawn to stand firm against spiritual attacks, and emphasizes the essential role in a believer's life. All right, so let me just go ahead and get down. Yeah, definitely, we're gonna have some very important verses to go over. Try, guys. It is another one of those mondays. I gotta get up and get ready for this show because I am

feeling it today. But it's all right, just because I was out on the wind all day and your body's all ten stuffed all day and the I was out on the wind and the cold all day today. So but yeah, some very important verses to go over. And first we're going to start out with Aphesian six, verses one through four. Let me just go ahead and pull it up on the screen real quick, and don't worry, guys, I'll catch my second win here and start crushing it

for you guys. So Aphesian six, Child and Parents Aphesian six, Verse one, Children, obey your parents and the Lord. For this is right. Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment, with promise that it may be well with you, and you will and you may live long on the earth. And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. So in I will stop there, and my teaching point. It says, children, obey your parents, okay,

It says. This command emphasizes the importance of family structure and the obedience within the Christian household. Fathers are instructed not to provoke their children to anger, but to bring them up in discipline and instruction of the Lord. All right, let me close that. So the relationship between children and parents is a foundational aspect of Biblical teaching, reflecting the

order and structure God has established for families. The Bible provides guidance on the roles and responsibilities of both children and parents, emphasizing love, discipline, and the instruction and the ways of the Lord. In the Old Testament we have

Deuteronomy six, verses six through seven. But it says it is written these words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts and you shall teach them diligently to your children, and speak to them when you sit at home, and when you walk along the road, when you lie down, and when you get up. See, parents are entrusted with the responsibility of raising their children in accordance with God's commandments. This includes providing physical, emotional,

and spiritual needs. The Bible underscores the importance of teaching children about God and his laws, and then fathers in particular are called to lead their families in spiritual matters. Iphesians sixty four instructs, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath. Instead, bring them up in the discipline and

instruction of the Lord. This vert verse highlights the balance between discipline and nurturing, ensuring that children are guided without being discouraged, and then when it comes to discipline and instruction, discipline is a key component of parental responsibility and tending to guide children towards righteousness. Proverbs thirteen twenty four states he who spares the rod hates his son, but he

who loves him disciplines him diligently. This proverb emphasizes the necessity of correction as an expression of love, aiming to steer children away from harmful paths. And as you see, Proverbs is written by Solomon. And if you see, I mean he has the wisdom, right, but you know his dad, David, I don't think. See, he had different you know, several different wives, right, David did, so his household was all scrambled, you know. So that's why his children did what they did.

You know, one ended up raping the sister, and then the other one ended up killing that brother. And then you know, Solomon, you know, just a lot of things happen. So let me just continue here. It says instruction in the Lord is equally vital. Parents are to model godly behavior and instilled biblical principle in their children. Proverbs twenty two, verse six. Advisors train up a child in the way that he should go, and when he is old, he

will not depart from it. And this training involves consistent teaching and living out the faith in everyday life. And then the biblical responsibilities of children. Children are called to honor and obey their parents, recognizing their authority as established by God. The fifth commandment, found in Exodus twenty twelve states, honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your

God has given you. This commandment is reiterated in the New Testament, which we just read in Ephesians six, verses one through three, which says, children, obey your parents and the Lord, for it is right honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment, with the promise that it may go well with you and that you may have long life on the earth. Obedience to parents, as seen

as the reflection of obedience to God. Colossians three, verse twenty reinforces this, stating, children, obey your parents and everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. This obedience is not merely about following rules, but is an expression of respect and of love. And then the role of love and respect. Love and respect are central to the relationship between children and parents. Parents are to love their children unconditionally, reflecting the love of God. In turn, children are to

respect their parents, acknowledging their role and authority. This mutual love and respect create a harmonious family environment with God's principles can flourish. So I'm going to tell you guys something that happens with me, with me and my children. So sometimes when they do something wrong and I get mad. Or let's say they do something wrong and then they don't listen and then I tell them not to do

it and then they do it again or something. Sometimes I have to think about the way God thinks about me when I mess up? Right, So how does God treat me when I mess up? So I think about it that way so that it reminds me that I

have to give grace like God gives me grace. So I try to play this game in my mind, not a game, but I try to play this, uh, this role in my mind that where I'm thinking about okay, so, or like when when my kids get me like upset, right when they do something where you're like, oh man, that bugs me, And then I think about it like, oh, I bet you God thinks like that about me when I do certain things wrong, you know, or when I sin or when you know, when I used to sin,

or when I used to do things that were like really bad. Right. So I just think about that. It makes me think that all the time because God is you know, God is our father. God is my father, right, so uh, And I'm a father to my I'm a dad to my kids. So I want to make sure that I am trying to treat them the way that God treats me. Right, That's kind of the way I try to do it. And I always think about that. Now. Am I one hundred percent accurate and always good? No?

Obviously not the best parent in the world. I try to do my best, and but you know, as far as discipline, I have to get better. I think at that because sometimes I'm super nice. I'm too nice. My wife she has the Sometimes she I end up having to discipline them. But sometimes they get more scared of her because I don't see him as often because I work so much, so she's always home with them. Right. So, yeah, So I'm working on everything now, you know what I mean.

Pray about it so God can help me. Challenges and encouragement. The Bible acknowledges the challenges that can arise in the parent child relationship. Proverbs twenty nine, verse seventeen offers encouragement. Discipline your son and he will go. He will give you rest, He will bring delight to your soul. This verse reassures parents that their efforts in discipline and instruction

will ultimately DeJoy in peace. For children, the Bible provides encouragement to remain steadfast and honoring their parents even when it may be difficult. The promise of blessing and long life serves as a motivation to uphold this commandment. Conclusion, the Biblical teachings on children and parents should provide framework for building strong, godly families. But adhering to these principles,

families can experience the blessings of harmony, love, and spiritual growth. So, yeah, the couple of those Bible verses, so you guys know Proverbs twenty two verse six, Colossians three, verse twenty. Then we have Ephesians six, verses one through four, which we just went through, and then two Corinthians twelve, verse fourteen is another one. Proverbs twenty nine, verse seventeen is another one,

and then Colossians three, verse twenty one is another one. Okay, So if you guys want to write those down, you guys can always rewind this. Those are great verses that connect to what we just discussed right now on verses

one through four. So to give you a recap, we have Ephesians six, versus one through four instructed childrens to obey and honor their parents and the Lord, linking obedience to their faith in God's plan why also promising blessing as stated in the Old Testament, it commands fathers and by extension, parents not to provoke their children to anger, but to raise them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, emphasizing loving guidance, teaching God ways, and leading

by example as agents of God. The meaning centers on healthy God honoring family dynamics where children learn respect for authority and parents lovingly guide them spiritually. And we've kind of had a really great uh, you know, we kind of talked about the core meanings of this verse, these four verses, So let's go ahead and continue. We're going to be on We're going to be on verse five.

Let me go back down to the teaching points here, all right, okay, perfect so Aphesian six, Verse five, bond servants be obedient to those those who are your masters, according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ, not with eye service as men pleasers, but as bond servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, with good will, doing service as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive this same

from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. And you masters, do the same things to them, giving them, giving up threatening, knowing that your own master also in heaven, and there is no partiality with him. So we have this passage. It speaks to the attitude of service and respect in all work relationships. Masters are reminded to treat their slaves in the same way without threats, recognizing that both master and servant had the same master in heaven.

So the topic of slaves and masters is at in various passages throughout the Bible, reflecting the historical and cultural contexts of the times. The scriptures provide guidance to the relationships between slaves and masters, emphasizing principles of justice, fairness, and spiritual are in mutual respect. In the Old Testament, slavery was a common practice in ancient nearest And societies, including Israel. The Mosaic Law provided regulations to protect the

rights and welfare of slaves. For instant Hebrew slaves were to be released in the seventh year of service, as stated in Exodus twenty one, verse two. If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free without paying anything. This provision ensured that slavery among the Asia life is not perpetual and allowed for restoration of freedom.

The law also mandated humane treatment of slaves. Exodus twenty one, twenty six through twenty seven states if a man strikes the eye of his male or female servant and destroys it, he must let the servant go free in compensation for the eye. And if he knocks the tooth of his male or female servant, he must let the servant go free and compensation for the tooth. These laws underscore the value of human life and dignity within the institution of slavery.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul addresses the relationship between slaves and masters and several of his epistles. In Ephesians six, verses five through nine, which we just read, it says, Paul teaches Fal's teachings, emphasizes that both slaves and masters are accountable to God, who shows no partiality. Masters are called to treat their slaves with fairness and respect, respect recognizing their shared humanity and equal standard before God.

In the Letter to Philament, Paul appeals to Philament to receive his runaway slave ones in amiss once a miss, not merely as a slave, but as a beloved brother in Christ. This appeal highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends social and economic barriers, fostering a new relationship based on Christian love and fellowship. So the biblical instructions regarding slaves and masters are rooted in broader Christian principles

of love, justice, and equality. Like Galatians three, verse twenty eight declares, this is neither Jew nor Greek, nor slave nor free. There is neither Jew nor Greek, nor slave, nor free, male or female. You are all one in Christ Jesus. This verse underscores the spiritual equality of all believers, regardless of their social status, and it says why the Bible acknowledges the existence of slavery in ancient times. Teachings lay the groundwork. Its teachings lay the groundwork for the

eventual abolition of slavery. By promoting the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. The call for mutual respect and recognition of a shared identity in Christ challenges the injustices associated with slavery and encourage a relationship based on love and service. So we'll go over a brief description of

these verses. So, in verses five through nine, it teaches bond servants employees slash slaves to obey earth these masters with reverence, sincerity, and wholeheartedness as if serving Christ directly, not just to please people, knowing the Lord rewards good deeds for all. It instructs masters to treat their bond servants fairly without threats, recognizing they share the same master in heaven who shows no partiality, linking all to Christ's

ultimate authority. This passage applies principles of mutual respect service to Christ and all relationships including work. Emphasize in integrity and eternal reward over earthly status, and verses five through eight obey with respect and sincerity. Serve your masters, employees or supervisors with reverence, fear and trembling, and a genuine, sincere heart, not just when watched. Avoid eye service. So

serve Christ, not just people. Do God's will from your heart, serving wholeheartedly, as if serving the Lord, not just to gain favor. Serve with goodwill, give your best effort with a great attitude, knowing the Lord will reward you good you do, regardless of your earthly status. And then in verse nine, it's talking about masters to or employers. Treat fairly. Do the same to your slaves employees, stop threatening them,

recognize shared mastership. Remember both you and your bond servant have the same master in heaven, and he shows no favoritism. And then what's the core meanings and applications behind this? As worship, all work becomes a spiritual act of serving Christ, transforming the workplace into a mission field. Integrity over appearance. True faith means working diligently, honorably even when unseen, reflecting

God's character. And then God's impartiality. God sees and values the sincere heart and all regardless of social position, promising reward for good work. Next, we have the famous put on the whole armor of God versus that a lot of people use. That I sees I've used quite a bit, you know, when I talk about spiritual warfare, and when people bring up spiritual warfare. But let's go ahead and read Ephesian six, verses ten through twenty, and we'll go

through it. Here. It says, find me, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers, the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day. And having

done all to stand. So what is this verse telling us, Well, it's telling us to be strong in the Lord, in the power of his might. So obviously the Lord God is stronger than all of the evil that you're going to go against. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the walls of the devil. So you're putting on the whole armor of God, so you're able to go into battle against

the devil and dodge the wiles of the devil. Right, So it says, for we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, meaning we shouldn't be fighting against other humans, because other humans aren't the problem. The problem is the principalities, the powers, the rulers, and the darkness of this age. And in if you go to the Geneva Bible, that actually says worldly governors also, we need to understand that.

And then it says against the rulers of darkness of this age, against spiritual host of wickedness in heavenly places. What is that talking about. Well, it's not talking about earthly places. All these other principalities are earthly. These ones are actually in heavenly places between where Earth is located and where God's throne is located. That's where Heaven is located in between there, right, So Heaven is also where God's throne is located. But it's not talking about the

ones that are you know, that are next to God's throne. No, no, no, it's talking about the area between Earth and Heaven. Now what would that be, Well, that would be where the moon, sun, and the stars are located. That's where the spiritual host of wickedness are in They're in heavenly places, right, So

we need to understand that. It's important because the Book of Daniel you have the Angel coming to answer the prayer and then it's fighting against the Prince of Persia, who is one of these spiritual hosts of wickedness in heaven the places. So it's on its way back from heaven to go answer Daniel's prayer, and it's fighting against the Prince of Persia. It has to call Michael the archangel,

and then it has to come and speak to Daniel. Right, So we got to understand that things are happening in the spiritual world that we don't even understand, and we are just living our life, going along all busy, busy praying to God once in a while. Hey Father, God, thank you for everything you did for me today. Ooh with thanks, Hey God, thank you for this, you know whatever.

But we don't understand the spiritual battles that are happening and the things that angels are doing for us, or that God is actually sending angels to do for us, because they're spiritual battles happening because we don't wrestle against lesh and blood, but principalities of evil. Wow, it gets really deep, you know. And obviously demons are involved in this as well, part of these principalities, but I think

there's uh the spiritual host of wickedness. So let's say it was only demons only, or if it was just the devil only, why would he say, why would why would Paul say this against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual host of wickedness and heavenly places, right, Why would he say against principalities? Why wouldn't he just say, for we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against demons and the devil.

There's obviously more to this here. There's fallen angels as well, So that's why he's mentioning these principalities of evil and heavenly places. And I think it's very very interesting that you have these planets which are wandering stars in heavenly places, right, which are actually named after other gods. And these other gods are like you know, to me, I believe that they're played by fallen angels, right, because obviously they are trying to deceive the people into worshiping them instead of

worshiping the One True God. Yahweh right. So that's what we need to understand here. So there's a lot at play in this verse. Some people just think that we're just, oh, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but just demons in the devil. Now, there's more to it. There's fallen angels,

there's spiritual hosts of wickedness. There's just more to this verse, I think, and after keep studying and studying in all the years that I've been studying these, you know, when it comes to spiritual warfare, and having certain people on my show where I've kind of talked to, like the you know, some people I believe are very intelligent in this kind of stuff. That's kind of where I'm at.

That's what I think this is talking about. Because I think Paul, if he was just talking about demons and the devil, what you say, he would just say, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but you know, demons and Satan, so be careful whatever. But he is obviously he does bring up the devil, right, he says, the wiles of the devil. Of course, the devil is obviously part of it, right, the main the main guy that

we're going against. Right, it says, therefore, take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day. And having done all to stand, so you put on the full armor of God so that you could go into battle and at least you're fighting, You're not just getting trampled, you know. And let's see what it says here for putting on the whole armor of God. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, right boom, you

got the breastplate of righteousness. So you got basically you know, your your armor is going to be your breastplate of righteousness. And then having shod your feet with the preparation of the Gospel of peace. Okay, above all taking the shield of faith, which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And what I always tell you, guys, faith cometh by hearing, hearing by the word of God. That is Romans ten seventeen. So

what is that talking about. Well, that's a way for you to build your faith by doing what by hearing the word of God like we're doing right now, us reading the word of God to you or me reading the Word of God to you, is making it so that you are building your faith. So that's why I do this, because I want to attract people to the faith. I also want to build your faith at the same time, and I want to make sure that we're going through the whole entire Bible, so you get everything that you

need to build your faith. Right. So it's a shield of faith. And obviously I'm not the one building your faith. God is the one building your faith. I'm just the vessel that's speaking to you. And that's it. But the shield of faith, right, So he got you know, when you first become a Christian, you got this little tiny shield, right, so you just try to block the walls of the devil and sometimes whatever he's shooting at you. You know, these battles you're having, you're not you're not able to

fight against it. But as you mature as a Christian, you're getting better and better and your shield of faith is getting bigger and you're able to block the walls of the devil. That's that's kind of what the way Paul's explaining this, right, and we need to make sure that we know this right. And then it says, and take the helmet of salvation, right, and take the helmet

of salvation. Now you got a helmet of salvation, and that's protecting your your your cranium, your brain, your mind, and your mind is the battlefield, right that the devil wants to try to infiltrate and he can't read your mind, but he can put thoughts in your head, right, he can try to tempt you with thoughts, you know. And that's what happens, you know, one thought of a sin turns into another, and then it turns into you actually committing that sin. Right, So take the helmet of salvation

and protect your brain. Right. And then it says, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Okay, so now we have our offensive weapon, which is the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Let me give you example of using the word of God as the sword of the Spirit when you're going against the devil. Well, we have Jesus when he's taken to the highest mountain. Right, we have Jesus on the highest mountain getting tempted. So let's go ahead and check

this out real quick. And so we have Jesus is tempted three times in the wilderness after Jesus fasted for forty days. Right, So he fasted for forty days, and that means that Jesus is at his weakest point. Now we have God in the flesh coming down to be able to feel how it is to be tempted. And not only is he tempted while he's you know, starving for a couple of days, or maybe you know, tired from not sleeping all night. He is forty days fasting.

So he is at his weakest point, it says, challenge. Oops, so it is Luke, Oh, not the ICB. You want to be in the new king James. So you guys, it says, being tempted for forty days by the devil. In those days he ate nothing, And afterward, when they had ended, he was hungry. And the devil said to him, if you are the son of God, command that stone, this stone to become bred. And Jesus answered him, saying, it is written man shall not live by bread alone,

but by every word of God, which is Deuteronomy. Right then the devil, taking up on a high mountain, showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to him, all this authority I will give to you and their glory, For this has been delivered to me, and I will give it to whommeever I wish. Therefore, if you worship before me, all will be yours. If you will worship before me, so basically asking him to worship him, right to bow

on and worship him. And Jesus answered and said, get behind me, Satan, for it is written you shall worship the God, the Lord God, and him only you shall serve. And it says, worship the Lord, which is Yahweh your God, and him only you shall serve. Then he brought him to Jerusalem. That's also Deuteronomy. Okay. Then he brought him to Jerusalem, set him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to him, if you are the son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written which is going

to be the Psalms. He says, he shall give his angels charge over you to keep you in their heads. They shall bear it. They should bear you up. Let you dash your foot against a stone. So now he's quoting Bible verses to Jesus, so he knows the Bible as well. And it says. And Jesus answered and said to him, it has been said you shall not tempt

the Lord your God. Then the devil had ended. Now, when the devil ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time that Jesus returned to the power of the spirit to Galilee, and news of him went through all the surrounding region, and also the angels came and they ministered to him. Okay, so the angels, they probably wanted to attack, you know, they're seeing God in

the flesh, Jesus in the flesh. They're getting attacked by Satan obviously, you know, Michael, the Arkins, who probably wanted to come down and regulate. But it was just it was meant to be. It was something that God had to go through, you know, had to be in flesh right and be tempted, feel how it is to be tempted,

and obviously win the battle and not sin. But in a way I believe, I don't know, it doesn't the Bible doesn't say this, but from the outside looking in, it almost feels like since God knows exactly how it is to be tempted, that he's like he's giving us more grace, you know, or you know he gives he gives us grace anyways, but maybe assist him a little bit more. Maybe that's just me thinking out loud of giving us a little more grace because he feels how

it is to be tempted. But okay, back to the point, it says, in the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. So the offensive weapon is the word of God, same exact thing that Jesus is using in Luke four, verses two through fourteen. What is Jesus saying, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. The devil he's resisting the devil. The devil's gonna try three times, but he resists the devil,

and he shall flee. That's James four, verse seven. But he says, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. And then you have him saying, get behind me, Satan, for it is written, you shall worship the Lord God, Yahweh your God, and him only you shall serve. And then once again boom, you shall not tempt the Lord. Tempt the Lord your God, right,

Yahweh your God right. So very interesting that Jesus is using the word of God, because it's the same thing that Paul says is the offensive weapon, which is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

And it says, praying always with all prayer and supplication, and the Spirit being watchful to the end, with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints, and for me, the utterance may be given to me that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the Gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Because he was actually in jail when he wrote this, and he's looking at the Roman soldier explaining exactly what, explaining exactly what? Where is the belt of truth? Isn't

it supposed to be in there? Sorry? Stand therefore, having girded a ways with truth, there we go, girted a ways with truth? All right? Sorry? So yeah, he sent he's an ambassador in chains. It says that I may speak boldly as I ought to speak. Okay, very interesting right there, Very interesting what Paul goes over, because it is it's exactly the way Jesus, you know, use the word of God as his offensive weapon. Obviously, Jesus is shield of faith is bigger than we can any of

us could imagine, you know. So his faith is already there. He already knows the word of God, because he is the Word of God. Right, So he's his spiritual sword is sharpened and ready to go. And he's obviously he is the Way, the Truth, the Life. So he's already girded his ways with truth. His whole body is you know, his whole being is truth. Right, having put on the bleused fate of righteousness, Jesus as righteous as you can be right. And then it says, shot your feet with

the preparation of the gospel. He is the Gospel right above all, taking the shield of faith. You know. So we've got to understand that Jesus is in this position forty days and forty nins. He is at his weakest point. But you know he's he resists the devil using the word of God, and he shall flee the devil flees. Does the devil keep tempting and tempting and tempting till Jesus says, I can't take it anymore. I gotta sin. No, he just tempts him, tempt him, tempts him, and he's

got to back off, resist the devil. He shall flee James four, verse seven. Okay, so let's go ahead and check out my notes say about the armor of God. The concept of the armor of God is a metaphorical framework presented by the apostle Paul in his Epistle to the Ephesians, specifically in Ephesians six ten through twenty. This passage is a call to spiritual vigilance and preparedness, urging believers to equip themselves with divine protection against the spiritual

forces of evil. The imagery of armor is drawn from Roman soldier gear familiar to Paul's audience, and serves as a vivid illustration of the spiritual resources available to Christians at the spiritual context we already read through the whole

Ephesians six ten through twelve. The belt of truth we got the belt or girdle was essential for a Roman soldier, securing his tunic and holding his weapons Spiritually, the belt of truth represents the believer's integrity and commitment to God's truth, which holds everything together and provides a foundation for a foundation for spiritual warfare. Then we have the breastplate of righteousness.

The breastplate protected the soldier's vital organs in a spiritual sense, righteousness from the imputed righteousness of Christ, and the believer's ethnical conduct guards the heart against the accusations and attacks of the enemy. Gospel of Peace. The footwear of readiness symbolizes the believer's stability and preparedness to proclaim the gospel. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, enables Christians to stand firm and advance the message of reconciliation. Shield

of faith. The Roman shield was large and designed to protect the entire body. Faith as a shield is a believer's trust in God's promises and power, capable of extinguishing the fiery doubt, darts of doubt, temptation, and fear launched by the adversary. Helmet of salvation, the helmet of salvation. The helmet protected a soldier's head, a critical area in battle. Salvation as a helmet signifies the assurance of eternal life and the protection of the mind against discouragement and despair.

The Sword of the Spirit. The sword is the only offensive weapon in the armour, representing the Word of God scriptures, a powerful tool for defense and attack, enabling believers to counter lies and deception with divine truth. And then we have prayer. Paul concludes the passage by emphasizing the abhortance of prayer and alertness. Prayers the means by which believers

maintain communication with God seek his guidance and strength. It is through prayer that the armor is effectively utilized ensuring that the believer remains vigilant and prepared for spiritual battles. Theological significance the Armor of God underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the necessity for divine empowerment. It highlights the believer's dependence on God's strength and resources rather than

human effort. Each piece of army reflects, each piece of armor reflects a critical aspect of the Christian life, rooted in truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. This passage serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against spiritual forces and the victory assured through Christ. That's the main thing, So very very interesting, perfect I like that little section right there, so we have. Let's go

over a brief description of what we read. Ephesians six ten through twenty is about spiritual warfare, urging Christians to be strong in the Lord and put on the fulham of God, to stand against the devil's schemes, which are not against people, but against evil spiritual forces, and to pray for boldness to spread the Gospel. It's a call to equip oneself with divine resources to fight deception and evil. Now with physical weapons, but the spiritual truth and reliance

on God's power. Like I always say, when Jesus went against the devil, did he pull out a sword? Did he pull out an ar fifteen? No? Did he pull out a physical sword? Is what I mean? No, he pulled out the Word of God, which is the the sword of the spirit. Okay, key themes and meanings. The reality of spiritual warfare life for believers involves a constant battle against evil spiritual powers, not just human opponents. The enemy, the adversary is Sayan and his forces who use deceit

lies in schemes to attack believers. Strength from God. Believers must be strong and the Lord's might, not their own. We already talked that, we kind of already did a breakdown of the sword of the spirit, the helme and salvation, the shield of faith, prayer essential for spiritual alertness, strength, and the boldness to proclaim the Gospel purpose, to stand firm withstand evil, and boldly proclaim the mystery of the Gospel.

In simple terms, Paul tells Christians to stop being naive about spiritual battles, to stop fighting each other, and instead rely completely on God's power using the spiritual armor. Armor he provides truth, rights in faith, et cetera, and constantly praying so they can stand strong against the devil's attacks and share the good news of Jesus. All right, perfect, Now we'll talk a little bit about Verses eighteen through twenty. Prayer and alertness praying in the spirit at all times,

with every kind of prayer and petition. Paul emphasizing the importance of constant prayer and vigilance and spiritual battle. Prayer and alertness are two interrelated concepts that are emphasized throughout the Bible as essentral components of a faithful and vigilant Christian life. These practices are not only acts of devotion, but also serve as a spiritual discipline that enable believers to remain steadfast in their faith and responsive to the

leading of the Holy Spirit. Prayer in the Bible, prayers a fundamental aspect of believers in relationship with God. It is both a privilege and a command, allowing individuals to communicate with the Creator, express their needs, offer thanksgiving, and seek guidance. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on prayer, highlighting its importance and power. In the Old Testament, figures such

as Abraham, Moses, and David exempty lives of prayer. Abraham interceded for Sodom Genesis eighteen twenty three through thirty three. Moses prayed for the Israelites in Exodus thirty two eleven through fourteen, and David composed many psalms that are prayers of praise laminate in supplication. The New Testament further emphasizes prayer, Jesus Christ serving as the ultimate model. He often withdrew to solitary places to pray and taught his disciples how

to pray through the Lord's prayer. Jesus also encouraged persistent prayer, as seen in the Parable of the Persistent Widow Luke eighteen one through eight. The apostle Paul underscores the necessity of prayer and the life of the believer. He exhorced the Thessalonians to pray without seizing first Thessalonians five, verse seventeen, and instructs the Philippians to present their requests to God

with thanksgiving Philippians four, verse six. Prayer is depicted as a vital component in the spiritual armor in Ephesians six, verse eighteen. Alertness in the Bible, alertness or spiritual vigilance, is closely linked to prayer. It involves being watchful and discerning, recognizing the spiritual realities and challenges that believers face. The Bible frequently calls for alertness, particularly in the context of spiritual warfare and the anticipation of God's return. Jesus repeatedly

instructs his disciples to be alert. In the Garden of Yosemite, he admonished them watch and pray so that you will be so that you will not enter into temptation, for the spirit is willing, but the body is weak. This highlights the necessity of combining prayer with alertness and to withstand spiritual triers trials Matthew twenty six, verse forty one. The Apostle Paul side the Apostle, Peter warns believers to

be sober minded and alert because you're adversary. The devil prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour one Peter five, verse eight. This call to vigilance is a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the need for constant readiness. Paul also emphasizes alertness in his letters. In one Corinthians sixteen, verse thirteen instructs be on the alert, stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage, be strong. This exhortation underscores the importance of being spiritually awake and

prepared to defend the faith. The interconnection of prayer and alertness. Prayer and alertness are intertwined, each reinforcing the other. Prayer cultivates a heart attuned to God's will and strengthens the believers, the believers resolved to remain vigilant. Conversely, alertness ensures that prayer is focused and responsive to the spiritual needs and challenges at heart at hand. In Colossians four, verse two, paulse captures this relationship. Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful

and thankful. This verse encapsulates the call to life marked by continuous prayer and spiritual awareness, grounded and gratitude for God's faithfulness. Together prayer alertness to quick believe, we should navigate the perplexities of life with discernment and faithfulness, standing firm against the schemes of the enemy and remaining ready to return to the Lord. Perfect. All right, so good stuff, Let's go ahead and continue reading. I think that was

enough right. Therefore this portion it says, a gracious greeting, but that you also may know my affairs, And I am doing taichikus a beloved brother and faithful minister. And the Lord will make all things known to you, whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace to the brethren, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ

in sincerity a man. So that is the end of Ephesians. Okay, the end of Ephesians. Awesome good stuff. So let's go over some practical applications. Encourage children to honor and obey their parents as a reflection of their obedience to God. Next one, in your workplace, serve with integrity and respect as if surfing Christ himself. Next daily, put on the full armor of God through prayer and meditation on his

word to stand firm against spiritual challenges. Next one, cultivate a lifestyle of prayer, being alert and persistent in interceding for others. And being alert also means being sober minded. That's what Peter's talking about when he says, be alert and sober minded.

weapons we use. Let's go ahead and go to that real quick. Second Corinthians ten three through five. Second Corinthians ten three through five, it says we'll start at two. But I beg you that when I am present, I may not be bold, that I may not be bold with the confidence by which I intended to be bold against some who think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. For though we walk in the flesh,

we do not according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare, not cardinally, but mighty in God, for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments, in every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when the obedience is fulfilled. Perfect we read verse six as well. But great stuff. And then prayer. We have first Thessalonians five, verse seventeen, which

occurrences which encourages believers to pray without seizing all. Right, so perfect, So now we are done with Ephesians. Now we're going to go into the introduction for the whole entire Book of Philippians. Okay, and then I'll go into

the introduction for Philippians one. The Book of Philippians is a New Testament letter from the apostle Paul, written from prison likely Rome to the first church he established in Europe, the Philippians, expressing joy, gratitude, and encouragement from them to live as citizens of Heaven by having the mind of Christ, serving one another, and finding contentment in all circumstances despite suffering. Key themes include joy and suffering, humility, unity, and steadfastness,

making it a happy prison epistle despite Paul's imprisonment. Thanks to the Philistine's generous support and spiritual partnership, author and date. The author is the apostle Paul around a D sixty to sixty two. They're not sure from prison in Rome. Recipients the Christian community in Philippi a strategically a strategically located Roman colony in Macedonia? Did I say that right? Macedonia? What did I say before? Macedonia? Macedonia? Am I saying

it right? I hope? So as I remember someone said, ah, I don't. I got to stop listening because you keep saying Macedonia Macedonia. I think consider it. Paul establishes this church during his second missionary journey, Acts sixteen occasion a thank you note for their financial support and to address

internal conflict, incurring them in faith in unity. Key themes and characteristics Joy in the Lord a central theme emphasizing God given joy regardless of circumstances, rooted in christ heavenly citizenship, contrasting the earthly Roman citizenship with their ultimate heavenly citizenship in christ christ centered mindset, urging believers to have the humble self, sacrifice and attitude of Jesus. Philippians two three

through eight. Unity and service, promoting fellowship, mutual support, and serving God in each other, suffering and perseverance, teaching that suffering for Christ is to be met with joy and can advance the Gospel contentment learning to be content in

all situations through Christ. Philippians for eleven through thirteen. Some of the distinctive features a personal affectionate letter with a remarkably joyful tone despite Paul's imprisonment, highlights the prominent role of women in the church, lydia udia and synthic syntheca centature. I don't know how to say it's sent sentache. It's s y n t y c h E synth syntai chi sentaichi. We'll just say that, even though that sells Asian or something. No major doctrinal air or false teaching

to refute. A letter encouraged an example, okay of encouragement and example perfect? All right. Let me go ahead, and my nose is a little itchy here. Let's go ahead and go to Philippians boom verse one. Perfect. All right. Now, let me just read the intro to Philippians one this time before we read the whole attire for the whole attire chapter or the whole book of Philippian. Okay, Philippians one gives us a glance into the emotional and spiritual

state of Paul while he was in prison. It emphasizes his unwavering commitment to Christ, the joy he found in sharing the Gospel, and is enduring hope despite his physical circumstances. This chapter serves as a powerful reminder that in life or death, in freedom or chains, the Gospel of Christ is not hindered, but rather advances. So, whether he's in prison or not, he's going to advance the Gospel message, right, which is amazing. That's what he should be doing. And

we talked about it. It's around sixty to sixty two ADS when Paul's it says during Paul, Oh, during Paul's house arrest in Rome, is what it says here in my other notes. So maybe that's true. Maybe he was actually in prison. We don't know. I don't think all the way. Let's go ahead and start reading Philippians one.

Verse one, Greeting Paul and Timothy Bond, servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippine with the bishops and deacons, Grace to you in peace from God, our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Like I always say, guys, our letters say dear John, dear Jack, whatever, in the very beginning, and then we write the whole letter. At the very bottom we put our name. But these are scrolls, so you don't want to have to open the whole entire scroll up to

see who the letter's from. Instead, the very first sentences is going to be Paul always doing this. He introduces himself as a bond server to Jesus Christ in the beginning of his letters, right like I was trying to tell you, guys, let's go ahead and continue Philippians one,

verse three. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mind, making requests for you with all joy, for your fellowship in the Gospel, from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing that he was begun a good work, and you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Just as it is right for me to think of this you all, because I have you in heart, and is such as much in your chains and in the defense

and confirmation of the Gospel. You are partakers with me of grace, for God is my witness. How greatly. I long for you in the affection of Jesus Christ. So let's go ahead and stop there real quick. So in verse three through five, Joy in Partnership, Paul expresses gratitude for the Philippine or the Philippines for the Philippians partnership in the Gospel, highlighting the importance of community in advancing

God's work. So we have joy in partnership. Joy in partnership refers to the profound sense of happiness and fulfillment that arises from working together with others in a shared mission of purpose, particularly with the context of Christian fellowship and ministry. The concept is deeply rooted in the Biblical understanding of community and the collective pursuit in God's will.

So biblical foundations we have Philippians three versus our Philippians one Versus three through five, which I just read says, I thank my God every time I remember you. In every prayer for all of you, I always pray for joy because of your partnership in the Gospel from the first Day until now. The apostle Paul expresses his joy in the partnership of Thelyppian Church, highlighting the mutual support

and shared commitment to the spreading the gospel. This passage underscores the joy that comes from being united in purpose and mission. And then another verse would be Ecclesiastes four nine through ten and says two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls, the other will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and no one and has no one to help him up.

This scripture emphasizes the practical benefits and joy of partnership, illustrating how working together enhances productivity and provides mutual support. And then one Corinthians twelve, verses twelve through fourteen. The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts. And although its parts are many, they all form one body. So it is with Christ or in one So it is with Christ for one spirit. We are all baptized into one body. Whether Jews or Greeks, slave are free,

we are all given one spirit to drink. The metaphor of the Body of Christ illustrates the joy found in diverse partnership within the Church, where each member contributes uniquely to the whole. All right, so this is just all talking about joy in partnership. Okay, So in church ministry, joy and partnership can be experienced through active participation in church ministries where members collaborate to serve the community and advance the gospel. This involvement fosters a sense of belonging

and share joy. Also in small groups and fellowship. Engaging in small groups or fellowship gatherings provides opportunities for believers to experience joy in partnership through prayer, study and mutual support. Small groups and fellowship would be like you know, Bible studies and things like that. Mission trips and outreachs. Participate in mission trips or outreach programs allows believers to experience the joy of working together to impact lives and communities.

For christ conclusion, joy in partnership is a vital aspect of the Christian life, reflecting the communal nature of the faith and the shared pursuit of God's purposes. Through unity, mutual edification, and shared mission, believers experience a profound joy that strengthens their faith and witness. Okay, so that is going to be there, and then we already read verse six.

Confidence in God's work, Paul assures the Philippians that He he who began a good work in you, will continue to continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. This emphasizes God's faithfulness and completing his work and believers so we could dig a little deeper into that. Confidence in God's work refers to the trust and assurance believers

have in the actions, plans, and purposes of God. This confidence is rooted in the character of God as revealed in scripture, his faithfulness and his sovereign control over all creation. It is an essential aspect of faith, enabling believers to rely on God's promises and his ability to fulfill them. So I just want to go with the definition of that, all right. Now, let's go ahead and read verse nine Philippians. One.

Verse nine says, and this I pray that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and in all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God. All right, So let's go ahead, and it says Paul, praise for the Philippians love to be abound more and more in knowledge and depths of insight, so they may

discern what is best. Let me Okay, so I guess someone was coming in and out. I just want to make sure that. Yeah, the wind is really battering on guess, so you might be hearing some background noise, but it's

it's all right, it's all right. So we were just talking about verses nine and ten, where it says and this, I pray that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, and that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere without offense to the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. If I reread that right now, I apologize. I'm just kind of got

stopped there. But anyways, so the power of prayer, let's look a little more into that. So the prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, serving as a means of communication between believers in God. It is both the privilege and responsibility, offering believers the opportunity to express

their adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. The power of prayer is a reoccurring theme throughout the Bible demi in its ability to affect change, provide comfort, and deepen one's relationship with God, and the Bible is a replete with examples and teachings of the power of prayer, and the Old Testament prayers depicted as a powerful tool used by the

faithful to seek God's intervention. For instance, one Kings eighteen thirty six through thirty nine, Paul's prayer on Mount Carmel results in God's sending fire from heaven, demonstrating his power and affirming Eliza's prophetic authority. Similarly, in Second Chronicles seven, verse fourteen, God promises Solomon that if his people humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways, he

will hear from heaven and heal their land. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ emphasizes the importance and efficiency of prayer. In Matthew seven seven through eight, he encourages his followers saying, ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find knocked, and the door will be open. For everyone who asks receives. He who seeks finds and to him who knocks the door will be open. Right. So, in conclusion, the power of prayer is a profound and

dynamic force in the life of a believer. Through prayer, Christians can experience God's presence, receive his guidance, and witness his transformative power in the lives and the world around them. The Bible consistently affirms that prayer, when offered in faith in accordance with God's will, has the power to bring about significant change and deepen one's relationship with the Creator. Right, And like I always say, prayer is amazing. And it's also we're blessed to even be able to pray to God,

you know, because we have Jesus as our mediator. Okay, perfect, Now, let's go ahead and kind of do a recap of Versus three through eleven. Philippians three through eleven is Paul's expression of profound joy and gratitude for Thelyppian Church, thanking God for their partnership in the Gospel even as he's imprisoned, and praying that their love will grow in knowledge and discernment, leading to pure, blameless living filled with fruits of righteousness

that bring glory to God. The core meaning centers on God's faithfulness to complete the good work he started in them, encouraging believers to find joy and maturity in Christ amidst trials,

knowing their lives produce spiritual fruit. In verses three through five, Paul gives thanks to the Philippians consistent support and partnership in spreading the Gospel from the very beginning, a source of deep joy for him confidence in God's work, and verse six, he is confident that God, who began a good work in them, will faithfully carry it on the

completion by the day of Christ Jesus. And then in verse seven, Paul sees them as sharing in God's grace with him, both in the imprisonment and defending the Gospel, highlighting their spiritual bond. And then in verses nineth through all prayer for spiritual growth, he prays he praise their love will overflow with knowledge and depth of insight, which is discernment, also discerning what is best. This wise love helps them discern what is best and approve excellent things

purity and blamelessness. Their goal is to be pure and blameless for the day of Christ and then fruits of righteousness. Ultimately they'll be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, bringing praise and glory to God. So basically, Paul is saying, thank you for sticking with

me in the Gospel. I'm so happy for you and praying that your love for God and others grow to be super wise so you can tell what's truly good and live pure lives, producing good actions fruits that make God God look amazing. That's in simple terms, right, all right, here we go perfect. Now, let's go ahead and go to verses twelve through eighteen. Christ is preached, So we'll start out by reading verses twelve through fourteen, and then I have some notes, and then we'll read fifteen through

eighteen after that. So Christ has preached, it says in verse twelve. But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happen to me have actually turned out to be furtherance of the Gospel. So that has become evident to the whole palace guard and to all the rest that my chains are in Christ, and most of the brethren and the Lord, having become confident in my chains, have much more bold to speak the word without fear.

So Paul is Basically, he's advancing the Gospel through adversity here, right, even though he's in chains, he's still trying to further the Gospel, which is awesome. So Paul shares his imprisonment has actually served as an advanced served to advance the gospel, demonstrate that God can use any situation for his glory. Right. The theme of advancing the Gospel through adversity as a profound and reoccurring motif throughout the Bible. It underscores the

belief that God hold on real quickly. We just highlight the sermon where I'm at. The belief that God can use challenging circumstances to further his divine purposes and spread the message of salvation. This concept is vividly illustrated in the lives of biblical figures in early Church, demonstrating that trials and tribulations can serve as catalysts for the growth of the dissemination of the gospel. Biblical examples Joseph. The account of Joseph in the Book of Genesis a classic

example of God using adversity to fulfill his plans. Sold into slavery by his brothers and later in prison in Egypt, Joseph's trials ultimately positioned him to save many lives during a severe famine. His rise to power in Egypt allowed him to provide for his family and debserve the lineage through which the Messiah would come. Joseph himself recognized God's hand in suffering, saying, you intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now

being done, the saving of many lives. And then the Early Church, the persecution of the early churches, recording the Book of Acts, signifying a significant role of spreading the Gospel. After the Mardam of Stephen, a great persecution broke out, causing the Church in Jerusalem and causing broke out against the Church of Jerusalem, causing believers to scatter and to sorry to scatter. After the Martin of Stephen, a great persecution caused the Church to scatter throughout Juday and Samaria.

The dispersion led to the wider proclamation of the Gospel, as noted in Acts eight, verse four, and then the apostle Paul also in his ministry, is a testament to advancing the Gospel through adversity. Despite facing numerous hardships, including an imprisonment and shipwrecks, Paul remains steadfast in his mission. In his letter to the Philippians, written from prison, Paul

expresses how his imprisonment has served to advance the Gospel. Now, I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the Gospel, and his wavering faith and perseverance inspired others to preach the Gospel with boldness. So in conclusion, for contemporary believers, the principle of advancing

the Gospel through adversity offers both encouragement and challenge. It calls Christians to view their trials as opportunities for witness and growth, trusting that God can use them even for the most difficult circumstances for his for his glory. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience and faithfulness in the face of opposition, as the Gospel continues to spread through the lives and testimonies of those

who endure hardship for the sake of Christ. All right, perfect, guys, so let me just go ahead and continue reading here. Now we're in Philippians one verse fifteen. As some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill. The former preached Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely supposing to add affliction to my chains, but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for

the defense of the Gospel. What then, only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ has preached, And in this I will rejoice, Yes, i will rejoice. Give me one second here, I'm just gonna pause this, all right, Yes, thank you guys, Sorry about that, guys. You know you guys know I try to do my best not to posit, but just had some visitors, so I just wanted to make sure that what we walk them out. But anyways, are that you know they got

out of without being too loud on here. But anyway, so we read from twelve through eighteen. All right, So let me just go ahead and me pull my teaching

points up again real quick. So read twenty oney, okay, perfect, So let me just go over a brief descriptions that we read Philippians one twelve through eighteen means that the apostle Paul views his imprisonment not as a setback, but as an unexpected opportunity that has significantly advanced the Gospel in Rome, making it known throughout the Imperial Guard, and bolding other believers to preach Christ more boldly, even while some preach from rivalry, finding joy because Christ is proclaimed

in all situations, whether sincere or not. The core message is finding divine purpose and joy and suffering for the sake of Christ's kingdom, demonstrating God's sovereignty, and turning obstacles into Gospel opportunities. Key meanings Gospel advancement. In verses twelve through thirteen, Paul's chains make his situation known, allowing the Gospel to reach the Guards, the Imperial the Emperor's at leads, and others in the Palace, an audience he would have

he wouldn't have had otherwise increased boldness. Seeing Paul's courageous endurance in prison has encouraged many fellow believers to speak God's word more fearlessly, and then mixed motives and ministry and verses fifteen through eighteen, God's will goodwill sorry. Some preach Christ out of genuine love, knowing Paul is defending the gospel, rivalry and envy. Others preach Christ out of self ass ambition, hoping to cause Paul trouble in his confinement,

rejoicing in all circumstances. In verse eighteen, Paul's ultimate point is that he rejoices and will rejoice because, regardless of the preachers impure or pure motives, Christ is proclaimed, which fulfills God's purposes. The overall theme, Paul teaches that difficult situations like his imprisonment aren't roadblocks, but divine setups for God's glory, revealing his power and expanding his message. A lesson for the Philippians and us to find joy and

purpose even in adversity. Okay, so now let's go and continue reading Philippians one verse nineteen. For I know that this is to live is Christ. For I know that this will turn out to be a deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness as always so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to

live is Christ, and to die is Gain. But if I live in the flesh, this will mean fruit for my labor Yet what I shall what shall I choose? I cannot tell. What I shall choose, I cannot tell well, for I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and to be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless, to remain in the flesh is more

needful for you. And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with all of your progress and joy of faith that you're rejoicing for me may be abundant in Christ, Jesus by my coming to you again. Okay. So in verse twenty one, Paul declares for to me, to live is Christ and to die is Gain, illustrating the ultimate purpose and hope found in Christ.

So living for Christ refers to the commitment and lifestyle of a believer who seeks to emulate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in every aspect of their daily existence. This involves the transformation of character, priorities, and actions to align with the principles and commands found in Scripture. It is a holistic approach to faith that encompasses spiritual growth,

moral integrity, and active service. To call to live for Christ's rooted in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to follow the example of Jesus. In Galatians two, verse twenty, the apostle Paul declares, I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body. I live by faith in the Son, Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me. This person encapsulates the essence of living for Christ, dying to self and

allowing Christ to live through the believer. Okay, so we have transformation and renewal. Living for Christ involves the transformation of the mind and heart. Romans twelve, verse two says, do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Obedience is a fundamental aspect of living for Christ. Jesus said in John fourteen fifteen, if you love me, you will keep my commandments and then bearing fruit. A life live for Christ is marked

by bearing spiritual fruit. In John fifteen to five, Jesus states, I am the vine. You are the branches. The one who remains in me, and I and him will bear much fruit. Okay. From apart from me, you can do nothing. The fruit of the spirit as outlined in Galatians five twenty two through twenty three, includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,

and self control. Okay, So in conclusion, while there is no conclusion to this entry, it is understood that living for Christ is a lifelong journey of faith marked by growth, service, and devotion to the Savior. Okay, very important, all right, and then we haven't read verse twenty seven yet, but we'll go over a brief description of these verses. So Philippians one nineteen through twenty six means the apostle Paul finds joy and purpose in his imprisonment. Trusting God's Spirit

will bring deliverance, either release or strength. So Christ is honored whether through his life or death. Viewing death as gain being with Christ but remaining excuse me, but remaining in the flesh is necessary for the Philippians faith growth. Declaring to live is Christ and to die is gain. Prioritizing faithful labor in Christ's magnification above personal comfort or

even itself. The key themes deliverance through the Spirit. In verse nineteen, Paul is confident that through the prayers of the Philippians and the help of the spirit, God will deliver him, meaning vindicate him or provide strength to Christ is magnified. Christ's magnified in all circumstances, Verse twenty. His hope is hope that Christ will be honored in his body, not disgrace, whether he lives or dies, showing the ultimate

devotion to live is Christ. To die is gains. This famous line means his life, his life's purpose is Christ, and death offers the ultimate gain of being with Christ, which he considers far better. First fruit labor in flesh twenty two through twenty four, Verses twenty two through twenty four. Remaining alive means continued ministry producing fruit for others, which means him lean towards staying even though death is desirable, and then purpose for others Verses twenty five through twenty six.

Paul continued presence serves as the Philippian's spiritual progress, joy and faith and reasons to glory in Christ Jesus. In simple terms, Paul is in jail but not worried. He trusts God to turn his bad situation into something good. He loved to die and go to Heaven, that's gain, but he'd gladly stay alive and keep working to help others grow in faith so they can praise Jesus more his whole life, living or dying, and making Jesus look great. All right, So let's go in and continue reading. We

have strife and suffering for Christ. Philippians one, verse twenty seven. Only let your conduct be worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I might hear of your affairs, that you may stand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together for the faith of the Gospel, and not in any way terrified by the advers adversaries, which is to them proof of perdition, but to you of salvation that from God.

For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for his sake, having the same confid which you saw in me. And now here is in me. Okay, so

and now here is in me? All right? So in Philippians one twenty seven, Paul declares for to me to live or sorry, Paul, or just the Philippines to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel, standing firm in one spirit and striving together to the faith and unity is a central theme in the Christian faith, emphasizing the oneness of believers in Christ. The Bible underscores the importance of unity among God's people, reflecting the unity of

the Trinity the New Testament. The apostle Paul frequently addresses the concept of unity within the church. In a Phesians four, verse three through six, Paul exhorts believers making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. All right, So I want to get too into that. Christian conduct is the outward expression of inward

transformation brought about by faith in Christ. The Bible provides clear guidelines on how believers are to conduct themselves, synthesizing holiness, love, and service, and one Peter one fifteen through sixteen. Believers are called to be holy in your conduct, for it is written, be holy because I Am Holy. This call to holiness reflects the character of God and sets believers apart from the world all right. In summary, unity and

conduct are intertwined in Christian life. Unity is the foundation upon which believers build their conduct and build their conduct, and their conduct in turn strengthens and maintains unity within the body of Christ though unity and godly conduct. Through unity and godly conduct, Christians bear witness to the transformative

power of the Gospel. All right, So brief description of verses twenty seven through third Philippians one twenty seventy to thirty means Christians should live like citizens of Heaven, united in spirit, courageously contending for the Gospel truth, without fear or persecution, understanding that suffering for Christ is in a punishment but a gift and privilege, a sign of God's saving grace for believers and impending judgment for opponent's mirroring

Paul's own struggles. It's a call for consistent, courageous, unified, and humble living that reflects Christ's character even amidst hardships. Seeing suffering is a way to share his work, share in his work Verse twenty seven. Your daily conducts should reflect your true citizenship in God's kingdom, not earthly ones,

embodying humility, love and service. Verse twenty seven b The united standing, firm and unity, be united in purpose, one spirit, one mind, working together for the Gospel's sake, not fragmented. Verse twenty eight. Don't be intimidated by opposition in your steadfast is a powerful witness, showing opponents their ultimate destruction

and believers their salvation. In verse twenty nine, God grants their special privilege not just to believe in Christ, but also to suffer for Him, a grace shown through shared struggle.

And in verse thirty, recognize that the opposition you face is the same kind of that Paul face, solidifying your place in Christ's ongoing witness in that since Paul tells the Philippians to be unified courageous examples of Christian living, doing hardship as a divine opportunity to display God's grace and advance the gospel, even when it means enduring suffering alongside Paul. All right, perfect, Let's go to some practical

applications for Philippians. One, we have cultivate community. Engage actively in your church or small group, recognizing the importance of partnership in the gospel. Next, trust in God's faithfulness. Reflect on areas of your life where you need to trust God to complete his work in you. Next, we have pray with purpose. Incorporate Paul's prayer for love and discernment into your daily prayer life. Next, we have embraced challenges.

View difficulties as opportunities for the Gospel to advance, trusting that God can use all circumstances for his purposes. Next, we have lived with purpose. Evaluate your life priorities to ensure that they align with the statement to live is Christ. And then we have promote unity. Seek to build unity within the Christian community. Focus on shared faith and purpose. And let's go over some additional scriptures that connect to

Philippians one. We have Romans eight twenty eight, which reinforces the idea that God works all things for the good of those who love him. One Corinthians one, verse nine highlights God's faithfulness in calling believers into fellowship with his son. Philippians four one through three courges believers to live a life worthy of their calling, emphasizing unity and peace. And then we have two Timothy eight and nine. It calls believers to not be ashamed of the testimony of the Lord,

even in suffering. All right, so perfect, Now, let's go ahead and go to Philippians two. We're gonna go over a Philippians two introduction. Let's do that real quick, okay, perfect. So, Philippians two is a chapter from the Apostle Paul's letter to the early Christian community in Philippi. It provides an inspiring exploration of humility, service, unity, and example set by Jesus Christ. It serves as a road app for living a Christ's centered life and underlines the importance of humility

and unity for effective Christian witness. The historical setting Philippi was a Roman colony inhabited largely by a retired soldiers Roman culture prize status. Paul's message of Christ self empty in class with the local honor system. Writing from imprisonment, Paul, thanks the generous yet persecuted church. All right, let me just get to the teaching points here, all right, Philippians two,

Unity through humility Philippians two, Verse one. Therefore there is, therefore, if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like minded, having the same love of one accord of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfless ambition or conceit, but in loneliness of mind. Let each esteem others before themselves. Let each of you look out not only for your

own interests, but also for the interest of others. Okay, so we have unity and humility here. Well, excuse me. So Paul begins by urging the Philippians to be like minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Unity in the body of Christ is essential, and it is achieved through humility and selflessness. So let's go ahead and click that. So unity, it's a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the oneness of God and his desire

for his people to live in harmony. The concept of unity is rooted in the nature of God himself, as seen of the shamal here O Israel, the Lord, our God, The Lord is one Deuteronomy six, verse four. This oneness is reflected in the call for unity among believers that are in the mirror of the unity the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In the New Testament, Jesus prays

for the unity of his followers. I have given them to the glory you gave me, so that you may be one as we are one, so that they may be one as we are one. John seventeen twenty two. This prayer underscores the importance of unity as a testimony to the world of God's love and truth. The apostle Paul further emphasizes this in his letters, urging believers to maintain the unity of the spirit. Hsians four, verse three says, make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit

through the bond of peace and then. Humility is a virtue highly esteemed in scripture, often linked with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. It involves a proper understanding of one's position before God and others, characterized by a lack of pride and self exaltation. Proverbs twenty two four states the reward of humility and the fear of the Lord are wealth and honor and life, highlighting the blessings

that accompany a humble spirit. Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of humility, and Philippians two, verses five through eight, Paul describes Christ's humility. Let this mind be in you, which is also in Christ. Jesus, who existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied himself taken the form of a servant, being made in human likeness and being found in appearance as a man. He humbled his self and

became obedient till death, even death on a cross. This pastors caused believers to emulate Christ's humility and their relationship with one another. In summary, unity and humility are intertwined virtues that we the character of God and the teachings of Christ that are foundational for the life and witness of the Church, enabling believers to live in harmony and serve one another in love. Okay, perfect, So let's go. Let's go ahead and do a brief description of what

we read. Philippians one, two, one through four is a powerful call for Christian unity, urging believers to act with humility, selflessness, mutual consideration. Inspired by Christ's example. Paul tells them to have one mind, one love, one spirit, one purpose, avoiding selfless ambition and vain conceit, instead valuing others above yourselves and looking out for each other, looking out for each

other's needs, not just for their own. This unity stems from their share blessings in Christ like comfort, love, spirit, fellowship, and mercy unity in Christ verses one and two. Because they share Christ's encouragement, love, spirit, compassion, they should be united in thought, love, and purpose. In verse three, believers should drop self centered motives, rivalry, and empty pride vain conceit.

Vers Also in verse three, a core command is in humility, count themselves more significant than others, seeing others as more important. And then in verse four, instead of focusing on personal gain, Christians said, actively look out for the interests and needs of others. The passage sets the stage for verses five through eleven, where Paul explains that Christ's self is humble sacrifices the ultimate model for this attitude. Okay, so let's

go ahead, and let's go ahead and continue reading. It says the humbled and exalted Christ, this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. This is a we're starting at Philippians two. Verse five. It said, let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ. Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made himself no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant and coming in

the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore, God also highly exalted him, giving him the name which is above every name than in the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, and those in heaven, and of those on earth and those under the earth, that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the

fe Okay, so this is very important obviously, right. So something I think is interesting is they're talking about everybody in heaven. Okay, this is covering every knee that's ever touched the earth, every knee in heaven, every knee on Earth, and every knee under the earth in shield. That's what I think is so awesome about this verse. It lets you know that every knee will bow that are on earth, everybody that's in heaven. It's covering every knee, and that's

what it's talking about. And it's interesting that it says under the earth, right to those in heaven, to those on earth, and those under the earth meaning in the earth, which means they are in shield. Which obviously there used to be two sides before there was Abraham's Bosom on one side and then you had shield on the other side. Right, So we got to understand that now we just have shield there and it's hell. It's in the earth, that's

where it's located. So I think that's very interesting. And also it says, therefore God has highly exalted him and given him the name which is above every name, that in the name of Jesus, every knee should bow to bow. Right, So I think that every knee should bow to the

name of Jesus, every knee should bow of those in heaven. Okay. So, and then I think it's also interesting that it says, we're just talking about how Jesus made himself no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant, right as a servant, and come in the likeness of man, meaning he wasn't man. Right, he's coming in the likeness of man, right, which means before he wasn't man right, because you know, I believe it's God in the flesh and being found in appearance

as a man. So he's it, and say that he is a man. It says that he is being found in appearance as a man, meaning he comes down in human form. He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Right, So let's go ahead and check out my notes. It says verses five through eight highlight the ultimate example of humility and obedience in Christ and Jesus Christ, who emptied himself taking the form of a servant Philippians two, verse seven.

His willingness to humble himself even to the point of death on the cross is a model for Christian behavior. Sigal Deeper. It says, the life and teachings of Jesus Christ serve as the ultimate example for Christians, embodying the principles of love, humility, obedience, and sacrifice. Excuse me. The New Testament provides a comprehensive account of his actions and words that are foundational for Christian ethics and conduct. Compassion.

Central to Christ's example is his love and compassion for humanity. John thirteen thirty four through thirty five. Jesus commands a new commandment. I give you love one another as I have loved you, so that you may also, so that you may so you also must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another. His interactions with individuals from all walks of life, including marginalized and sinners, demonstrate his boundless love

and mercy. Mercy the Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke ten twenty five through thirty seven further illustrates the call to love one's neighbors without prejudice, humility, and service. Christ's humility is exemplified in his incarnation and earthly ministry. Philippians two, verses five through eight states we just read it let

this mind be in you, which also in Christ. Jesus, who existed in the form of God, did not consider requality with God something to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness, and being found as appearance of a man. He humble self and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. Jesus washing of his disciples feet in John thirteen one through seven is a profound act of service, teaching that true greatness and the Kingdom of God is found in

serving others. And then we have obedience to the fathers another thing. Jesus's life was marked by perfect obedience to the will of the Father. In John six thirty eight, all right and sacrifice and redemption. The sacrificial nature of Christ's mission essential to his example. His death on the cross is the ultimate act of love, and redemption is described in Romans five, verse eight. But God proves his love for us. In this while we were still sinners,

Christ died for us. This selfless act provides the means for salvation and calls believers to live sacrificially for others. In Matthew sixteen twenty four, Jesus instructs, if anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. So in conclusion, the example of Christ is a comprehensive guide for Christian living, encompassing love, humility, obedience, sacrifice, forgiveness,

and faith. His life and teachings continue to inspire, the challenge and challenge believers to reflect his character in their daily lives. And then we also have the exaltation of Christ in verse nine. Because of his obedience, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name above all names Palyippians two, verse nine. This demonstrates that true exultation comes through humility and submission to God's will.

The exaltation of Christ is a central theme in Christian theology, referring to the glorification and honor bestowed upon Jesus Christ following his earthly ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection. This exaltation encompasses his resurrection, ascension, and his current reign at the right hand of the God the Father. It signifies the divine approval and authority granted to Christ, affirming his identity as the son of God and the fulfillment of his redemptive work.

The resurrection of Jesus's foundational event marked in the beginning of the exaltation. According to the scriptures, God raised Jesus from the dead on the third Day, demonstrating his victory over sin and death. The apostle Paul emphasizes this in his letter to the Romans. He was delivered over to death for our trespasses and was raised to life for

our justification Romans four, verse twenty five. Ascension. Following his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, an event that further signifies let me, an event that further signifies his exaltation. The ascension is recorded in Acts one nine through eleven, where Jesus is taken up before the eyes of his disciples and a cloud hides him from their sight. This event marks the trends position from his earthly ministry to his heavenly reign.

The essentiy the ascension is a fulfillment of the prophecy found in Psalms one to ten, verse one, the Lord said to my Lord, sit in my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet. This verse frequently excided. This verse is frequently cited in the New Testament as evidence of Christ's exalted position Hebrews one,

verse thirteen, seated at the right hand of God. This exaltation of Christ is further illustrated in his position at the right hand of God, a place of honor and authority. In Ephesians one twenty through twenty one, Paul writes that God raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in the present age but also in the

one to come. This position signifies Christ's supreme authority over all creation and his role as the mediator between God and humanity, all right, intercession and rain. As the exalted Christ, Jesus serves as the high priest who intercedes for believers. Hebrews seven, verse twenty five states. Therefore, he is able to save completely those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to intercede for them. His intercessory role is a vital aspect of his exaltation, ensuring the

continual application of his redemptive work. Moreover, Christ's reign is characterized by his sovereign rule over the Church and the world. In One Corinthians fifteen twenty five, Paul declares for he must reign until he has put on all his enemies under his feet. This reign will culminate in the final subjudication, subjugation of all opposing forces, and the establishments of eternal kingdom. In summary, the exaltation of Christ encompasses his resurrection, ascension,

heavenly session, intercessary work, and future return. It affirms his divine authority, the efficiency of his redemptive work, and his ongoing reign as king and Lord. Obviously, guys, that's if there's a future reign. Some of you, guys might be believing in Satan's little season. Some of you might be believing in different eschatologies than that. Maybe all millennial, maybe a predicist. Whatever. I'm just this is what the notes are saying. You know, So I believe there's a future return.

That's what I believe. Currently, but you know, I'm just going off what my notes say. Okay, guys, so don't get too crazy, all right, Next, let me just go over a brief description of what we just read in

verses five through eleven. Philippians five through eleven is a cornerstone New Testament passage about Christ's self emptying humility, urging believers to adopt the same selfish mindset in their own lives and relationships, culminating in Jesus's voluntary descent from divine glory to servanthood and crucifixion, following by his ultimate exaltation

by God as Lord. Over All, it contrasts Christ's divine nature with his choice to become human, emphasizing that his humility wasn't a loss, but a path to ultimate glory and universal acknowledgment, serving as a model for Christian unity and service. And verses five through eight, believers are called

to have the same mind as Christ, Jesus divine nature. Jesus, though God, didn't cling to his divine status, self empty in Kenosis, he emptied himself by taking the form of a servant, becoming human and obedient to death, even crucifixion. Humility and obedience he chooses. He chose a life of service and ultimate submission, even to suffering and death, Christ's exaltation.

Because of his humility, God highly exalted him name above all names, given a name that commands universal worship, universal lordship. Every knee will bow, and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord to God's glory. Meaning for believers, unity and service. Live with selfless love, considering others better than yourself, just as Christ served. Emildias strength truth Strength is found in humble service, not self exaltation. Mirroring God's own character and

imitating Jesus. Follow his example by stooping low to lift others. Stop stooping low to lift others, recognizing his path for humiliation to exaltation as the model for the church. All right, and we haven't read verse twelve yet, let's go ahead and do that. So second clip, second Philippians two, verse twelve,

we're going to read twelve through eighteen. Light bearers. Therefore, my beloved, as you always obeyed, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but how much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling for It is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may have become blameless and harmless children of God, without fault, in the midst of crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the Word of life, So that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I may not run in vain

or labored in vain. Yes, if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad, glad and rejoice with you all for the same reason, you also may be glad and rejoice with me. All right, So work out your salvation. Here, it says Paul encourages believers to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the importance of active faith and reliance on God's power. All right.

So working out your salvation is a derive from Philippians two, verse twelve, where the apostle Paul exhorts the believers in Philippi, therefore, beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but not even more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. This passage has been subject of much theological reflection and discussion, particularly concerning the relationship between divine grace and human responsibility and the

process of salvation. Definitely, what's the theological invocation this passion underscore is the cooperative nature of sanctification, the process by which believers are made holy, while justification, being declared righteous before God is an act of God's grace. Receiving through faith. Ephesians two verses eight through nine says, for it is God who works in you and who will act on

behalf of His good purpose. Philippians two, verse thirteen. Practical application working out your salvation includes a continual process of spiritual growth and maturity. It includes cultivating virtues such as love, humility, and obedience as exemplified by Christ in preaching Versus Philippians two five through eleven. Related biblical themes we have. The concept of is consistent with other biblical teachings in Christian's life.

James two verse seventeen states, so to faith by itself it does not result in action, is dead, highlighting the necessity of works as evidence of genuine faith. Similarly, two Peter two by through eight urges believers to make every effort to add to your faith virtue and to virtue, knowledge and to knowledge, self control into self control, perseverance

and to perseverance. Godliness and the godliness, brotherly kindness and the brotherly kindness love, illustrating the active pursuit of spiritual growth. In summary, work out your salvation is a call to live a life that reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, relying on God's grace, which actively pursuing spiritual growth and obedience. All right, so let's see we went through that, and

then we went through fifteen. Shining as lights, Christians are called to shine as lights in the world, living blameless and pure lives to reflect the character of Christ. And I'll just go over the definition of shining. The concept of shining as lights and the Christian faith is deeply rooting the teaching of the New Testament, where believers are called to be reflection of Christ's light and the world

often characterized by darkness. This metaphor is primarily drawn from the Apostle Paul's exhortation and his letter to the Philippians, and has echoed through scripture, emphasizing the transformative power of living a life that reflects the character and love of Jesus Christ. Okay, I just want to go over that perfect and let me just go over a brief description of what we just read. Okay, let me just I

like that. Okay, cool, Okay So. Philippians two twelve through seventeen is a call for believers to add actively live out their salvation and reflecting Christ's humility by working out their faith with fear and trembling all in reverence, doing everything without grumbling, and shining as a light in a dark world by holding onto the Word of life the gospel.

It emphasizes that God works in believers to empower them while they must work out this transformation, becoming blameless, innocent, and joyful examples ultimately to God's glory and Paul's encouragement work out your salvation. This isn't about earning salvation through works, but rather bringing the eternal change God started like born again, to full completion of your daily life. God's work in you. God gives the desire and power to please Him Verse thirteen.

Your role you must actively respond, bringing your faith to fruition through obedience like a sculpture finishing a masterpiece. Fear and trembling in verse twelve. This signifies a deep reverence, awe, and respect for God's holy winess and the seriousness of salvation, not paralyzing fear. It is an attitude of humility, seriousness, recognizing the weight of God's grace and work within you.

No grumbling or arguing. Complaining shows discontent with God's provision and reflects a lack of faith, which is unbecoming for a Christian. Believers should be unified and content, avoiding the criticism that non believers use to dismiss faith. Shining like lights in a crooked and perverse world. Believers should be blameless and innocent, holding firmly to the Gospel, the Word of Life. Your transformed life becomes a beacon, a bright

beacon demonstrating Christ's life. In offering hope to the lost. Joyful sacrifice, Paul links his practical living to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. From Philippians two one through twelve one through eleven. Believers should offer themselves joyfully, even in hardship, as a living sacrifice, finding joy and serving God and others which pleases Him. In the light of Jesus supreme

humility and exaltation. You are called to live humbly, obediently, sacrificially, reflecting His light and bringing glory to God through your transformed life and powered by Him. All right, So I'm just gonna go over these, you know, fairly quickly. Verses

nineteen through thirty. Timothy commended. But I trust in the Lord Jesus has said, Timothy to you shortly, that I also maybe encourage when I know your state, For I have no onelike minded who will sincerely care for your state, for all seek their own, not in the things which are of Christ Jesus. But you know his proven character that as a son with his father, he served with me in the Gospel. Therefore I hope to send him at once as soon as I see how it goes

with me. But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. Okay, So this is just a this is a deep trust in accommodation for his disciple, Timothy to the Philippian Church, highlighting Timothy's selfless, loyal and like minded nature and serving the gospel, contrasting him with others who seek with other interests. Paul warns wants to send Timothy to bring good news and care to the Philippians, showing an example of Christ like others, focused living, even

as Paul anticipates his own potential. Martam, Okay, let me just go ahead and read Ephroditis Ephroditis Praised. This is a verse twenty five. No, yet I considered it necessary to send you to Ephriditis, my brother, to send to you Ephriditis, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need, since he was longing for you all and is distressed because you had heard that he was sick. For indeed,

he was sick, almost unto death. But God had mercy on him, not only on him, but on me also. Less I should have sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I send him the more eagerly, that when you see him again, you may rejoice and I may be less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem. Because of the work of Christ. He came close to death, not regarding his life to

supply what was lacking in your service toward me. Okay, I'm kind of almost a two hour mark, So don't really need to do too much breaking those down, breaking that verse down. But I'll just in simple terms, Paul tells the Philippian church, I'm sending Ephroditis back to you. He's a fantastic, selfless servant who nearly died, bringing her gifts and helping me. He was so worried about your knowing he was sick. Please welcome him home with great joy and honor. Okay, so that's kind of what it's

saying that, but perfect. So let's go out and go over some practical applications. Cultivate humility is the first one. Regularly assess your attitudes and actions to ensure they align with the humility of Christ. Seek to serve others selflessly. Pursue unity. Engage in activities and conversations that promote unity within your church and community. Avoid devisive behavior and speech. Next, embrace obedience. Follow Christ's example by being obedient to God's word,

even when it requires sacrifice or discomfort. Next, live out your faith. Actively engage in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship to grow in your faith and work out your salvation. Next, be a light. Look for opportunities to demonstrate the love and truth of Christ in your daily interactions, serving as a beacon of hope and righteousness. Perfect,

let's go over some additional scriptures that connect. We have Ephesians four versus one through three, all Paul's call to live a life worthy of the calling we have received with humility and unity. And then we have Matthew five, verses fourteen through sixteen. Jesus is teaching on being the light of the world. Next we have Romans twelve, verses one through two. The call to offer our bodies is living sacrifices and be transformed by the renewing of your minds.

Next we have one Peter five, verse six, the exhortation to humble ourselves under God's mighty hand. And that is the end of Philippians too. So yes, perfect, guys, ah, yes, like always, I am, yeah, feeling a little tired, but it's all right, no worries. I hope you guys enjoyed that study on spiritual warfare and you know, just just amazing.

I love kind of going over this stuff. So for those that are listening that want to check out my show, it's Josh Monday Christening conspiracy podcasts and all audio platforms. And also it is gonna be Josh Monday music and podcast on YouTube. So if you want to check out my YouTube, please go there subscribe. I really appreciate it. And I'm slowly releasing the Bible studies that I've been doing on here on my show and also have tons

of interviews. I got like three hundred and thirty three episodes right now currently, so I'm all the way up to three thirty three, which is crazy. But yeah, thank you guys so much for tuning in. I really appreciate it. But like I always do, I end this in prayer, so let's do that. So Father God and the name of Jesus, thank you so much for this beautiful time. Thank you for giving me the time to actually do these shows. Lord, please assist me to do these on

the weekend. I keep on putting it off and end up doing it on Monday nights, which make me tired the next day for work. And please assist me Lord to give me motivated on the weekends. It's hard because I want to sleep, but hey, just please assist me Lord if you could, And anybody that's listening that's going through spiritual battles. Lord, please assist them, you know, and anything that the Devil's trying to do. Please assist us

to dodge the wiles of the devil. Please assist us to dodge the wiles of the spiritual wickedness and high places or heavenly places and any of these spiritual entities that are trying to attack us. Lord, please assist us to fight against these evil demons, fallen angels, or the devil. Lord, Please thank you and anybody that's listening that's going through any alcohol problem, any drug problem, or any type of issue at all, or please ask you to spiritually step

in and break those chains. In the name of Jesus. Lord, thank you for everything you do for us. We love you in Jesus' name. Amen. Yes, thank you so much for listening. That's perfect two hours, I believe and I appreciate all of you, and God bless you.