OVER THE next few weeks, we will once again be conducting a study on a particular book in the Bible. The book selected is Philippians and our focus will be the application of its truths to our lives.
Servants of Christ
The book opens with the quotation, 'Paul and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:1a). The statement identifies the senders of the letter as Paul and Timothy who are servants of Jesus Christ. Many people resent the idea of being called servants. In fact even some who want "to serve God" only want to serve as His consultant. Although Paul was a most eminent minister he recognised that his highest honour was not "master of the church" but simply "a servant of Jesus Christ". As we go through today may we display that servant, and may we find just one way to affirm that we are indeed servants of Jesus Christ.
Saints in Christ
The recipients of the letter are identified immediately after the senders are named. The recipients are, "'all the saints in Christ at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons' (verse 1b). This letter is sent first to "all the saints in Christ". This includes the richest, the poorest, the most brilliant and even the least gifted. As "Saints in Christ" all are precious, valuable and equal in God's sight. It is interesting to note that Paul mentioned the church before the leaders. This should help us to develop a correct perspective: the leaders are for the church, not the churches for the leaders. The saints in Christ who are called to be leaders are not only servants of Christ but also servants of the church for His sake.
Salutations in Christ
The writers greeted the saints with the apostolic benediction, "Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ" (verse 2). This greeting was not merely a polite custom, but it carried a distinctively Christian tone, and content. Grace and peace are the free favour and goodwill of God. There can be no real peace without God' unmerited favour (grace). Inner peace springs from a sense of divine favour.
PRAYER
Dear God, please give me the right attitude towards servanthood. Please help me to accept all your saints as equal. May your grace and peace rest upon us and give us inner peace today and everyday.
