Christian Basics: Emulate Worthy Christians (part I)

Philippians 2:19 – 2:30

The Big Picture: in Paul’s letters he often (implicitly or explicitly) tells his readers not only to understand and follow what he teaches, but to imitate him.

Nowhere is this theme stronger than in Philippians 3, reaching a climax in 3:17: “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.”

New City, emulate those Christians . . .*

#1 who, like Timothy, are interested in the wellbeing of others, not the self-promoting peacock (2:19-21).

#2 who, like Timothy and Epaphroditus have proved themselves in hardship, whose lives are offered up in worship/help/service to God and to his people (2:22-30)

----- Lord willing, we will look at points 3, 4, and 5 on Aug. 9th ----

#3 whose constant confidence and boast, like Paul, is in Christ Jesus and nothing else (3:1-9).

#4 who, like Paul, are continuing to grow spiritually, not those who are stagnating (3:10-16).

#5 who, like Paul, eagerly await Jesus’ return, not those whose mind is on earthly things (3:17-21).

*This is a modification of an outline take from D.A. Carson’s “Basics for Believers: An Exposition of Philippians”