THE CHRISTIAN’S RESPONSIBILITY

Part 4

Philippians 2:14-18

In this final pen pulpit on the subject of the believer’s responsibility from Philippians we look at Our responsibility in sharing with the world the reason for Biblical Christianity verses 16-18

It is appropriate that those who are lights in the world should hold forth the Word of Life. This is our responsibility. This message explains to the world the change that has taken place in our life. The “Word of Life” is the Word of God – the gospel.

Crooked and perverse generation explains the decadent, perverted moral ruin of a world without God. These graphic terms describe a world abiding in death cf Eph 2:1ff. They need life! The Word of Life will impart to them that life.

1. Jesus Christ is the Living Word in whom is life intrinsic - cf John 1:4,14

2. The Written Word is living - cf John 6:63; Heb 4:12; I Thess 2:13

3. The Word of God is seed – cf I Peter 1:23. The human heart is the soil into which the seed is planted - cf Matt. ch 13.

The power of the Word given out – backed up by a life that is controlled by the Word of God is a powerful force indeed. In I Peter 3:15 we have a working philosophy of the believer’s ministry among unbelievers - “But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.”

In verse sixteen Paul says, “when I see a church taking the initiative in developing their lives with the Lord, maintaining a credible testimony in a godless society – a responsible people, the time and tears and effort that I’ve spent on you have not been wasted.”

The drink offering was a kind of seal upon the sacrifices offered. It was a special honor to the Lord. Paul says that his suffering was for the sake of the gospel – a seal upon the sacrifice of their service.

In verses seventeen and eighteen, Paul states that he was rejoicing within and he desired to share his joy with them. He also encouraged the Philippians to rejoice and share their joy with him.

As believers our life is to be characterized by rejoicing in our Lord and sharing that joy with others. In other words we are to function as faith builders. God bless.

Love in Jesus,