Where Are You Investing?
Pastor Terry Wilcox
Philippians 4:10-20
For 10-12 years, the Philippians had financially supported the ministry of Paul and he concludes this letter to them with gratefulness and a promise.
Let’s quickly review: Matthew 25:14-30
- Investing in God’s work results in . (Philippians 4:10)
2 Corinthians 8:1-5
- Paul had learned to be content? (Philippians 4:11)
The Greek word “autarkes” has no equivalent in English. Greek scholars tell us the word is used to convey a sense of .
Not understanding the difference between “contentment” and “competence” is to settle for half of the truth.
Philippians 4:13
James 2:26
- Paul uses the language of . (Philippians 4:15-19)
- Have you thought of your giving as warfare?
In his book, Waking the Dead, John Eldredge makes a simple but powerful statement: “Things are not what they seem. This is a world at war.”
He then goes on to explain, “The world in which we live is a combat zone, a violent clash of kingdoms, a bitter struggle unto the death. …You were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great battle, involving all the forces of heaven and hella nd played out here on earth…. Until we come to terms with war as the context of our days, we will not understand life.”
Eldredge goes on to quote C.S. Lewis, when he wrote in Mere Christianity, “One of the things that surprised me when I first read the New Testament seriously was that it talked so much about a Dark Power in the universe – a mighty evil spirit who was held to be the Power behind death and disease and sin….This universe is at war.
In five years, the number of 6-17 year olds diagnosed with gender dysphoria has tripled. 42,000 in 2021.
1 John 1:3
- In Philippians 4:17, Paul uses the terminology of .
He is saying their gift is not as important as their .
The English “more” or “the fruit” is translated from the Greek word “karpon” which was commonly used in reference to on an .
HIs concluding promise of Philippians 4:19 is often misappropriated.
“The gifts of the Philippians are a loan which is drawing compound interest. Paul cannot repay it, but his God, whom he serves and who receives the sacrifice, will supply their needs, both material and spiritual, on his behalf.”
-J.B. Lightfoot, Beacon Commentary
PERSONAL NOTES