Bible Studies

LESSONS IN COMMITMENT FROM PHILIPPIANS

by John Clark 
04/28/18
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     The Christian life is not one of easy believism, nor is it a feel-good teaching. It is not a life to be lived according to our desires. It is rather one of discipline and commitment to following Christ and advancing His kingdom work. This is the message of the Book of Philippians. Here are some general observations from the first chapter. 

Participation in the gospel.

     "...your participation in the gospel from the first day until now" (vs 5).

Confirmation of the gospel. 

     "...in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partakers of grace with me"(vs. 7).

Progress of the gospel. 

     "Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel" (vs 12).

Defense of the gospel.

     "...I am appointed for the defense of the gospel" (vs. 16).

Conduct becoming of the gospel. 

     "...conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel..." (vs. 27).

Stand firm for the faith of the gospel.

     "...may I hear of you, that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel" (vs. 27).

      The dictionary definition of commitment is "the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity."  To put it another way, commitment is "an engagement or obligation that restricts freedom of action."  What level of commitment do you have as a Christian? Each of these six observations has a personal application.

     1. Aside from church attendance are you a participant in the gospel? Do you financially support missionaries or ministry organizations? Do you pray for the unsaved? Are  you involved in some kind of personal ministry?

     2. How has the message of the gospel been confirmed in your own life experience?

     3. Is it your desire that God will use whatever circumstances you may be going through to cause the gospel to go forth?

     4. Do you know how to defend the gospel to the oppostion or unbelievers?

     5. Are you living a life that attracts others to the gospel?

     6. Are you standing firm without compromise to the gospel of grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ?