Philippians 3. 20 – 4. 9
20 … our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.
4.1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.
2 I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. 3 Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Sermon Quotes and References:
Failing to address conflict says something about our view of God and His providence. If God is truly upholding & governing all things, bringing everything to pass that comes to pass, then what are we to say about conflict? Simply this – that God has permitted it at this time, for our good & His glory. Therefore, we must apply the Word of God in a way that honors Him & gratefully submits to His plans & purposes.
Too many times in the church we deploy the world’s methods & hope for heaven’s results. It simply won’t happen. We cannot mute the gospel & expect blessing. We cannot second-guess providence & hope for good. We cannot avoid any type of discomfort & expect genuine community. After all, in the church where the requirement for entry is admitting that we often break things, we should not pretend that we are perfect, nor should we expect that others will be.
Conflict can drive us apart or close, depending on whether or not we apply the Word in the power of the gospel.
Erik Raymond, “Conflict is an Opportunity”