Link Up With Others
Philippians 1:1-11
The believers in Philippi were partners with Paul in his kingdom work. Believers should seek a partnership with their pastor and other kingdom ministers for the furtherance of the gospel. How did the believers in Philippi partner with the apostle Paul?
First, it was a partnership of prayer. Paul acknowledged in verses 3 and 4 that he continually prayed for the Philippian believers. He thanked God for them and made “request” for them. In verses 9 through 11, Paul described more fully his prayer for them.
However, the partnership of prayer didn’t stop there. Paul had the confidence that the Philippian believers were also praying for him. He said, “For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ” (1:19).
One of the most important ways to partner with your pastor and other ministry leaders is through prayer. Pray for your pastor as he prepares to preach, pray for the Holy Spirit to guard him from sin, pray that God would protect his family, and pray that he will have joy in his ministry.
A second way the Philippian believers partnered with Paul was through sharing. It was a partnership of sharing. Paul said, “For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities” (4:16) and “Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God” (4:18). The Philippian believers were givers and had consistently given to Paul’s ministry. A believer’s giving through the local church supports the work of ministry throughout the world. Giving is a way to partner with those who have given their lives to gospel service.
Third, it was a partnership of caring. The Philippian believers cared about Paul’s condition and circumstances. Their care and concern was not just a fleeting moment of goodwill. Paul said they had been consistent as partners “from the first day until now” (1:5).
The letter to the Philippians is a prison letter and written while Paul was in prison. It was a time of need for him. The Philippians cared enough to minister to him in his time of need. They sent Epaphroditus, who Paul says “ministered to my need” (2:25). That’s why Paul said of the Philippians, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you” (1:3), “I have you in my heart” (1:7), and “I long for you” (1:8). The tense of the Greek verb “I thank” means Paul was continually thankful for the Philippians. Paul was obviously encouraged by the care of the Philippians. Expressing care for your pastor and ministry leaders brings encouragement to them.
Melton– Lessons by Frankie Melton, pastor of Heath Springs Baptist Church, Heath Springs. He has a B.A. degree from Charleston Southern University, and a Ph.D. and M.Div. from Southern Seminary.