The Philippian Model of the Christlike Servant

AndrewBAird

But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. 20 For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s. 22 But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. 23 Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. 24 But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly. (KJV, Phil. 2:19–24)

Just as in Paul’s time, today we have a large number of would-be spiritual leaders who should be rejected as unworthy guides to God and eternity. Though some are unorthodox and easy to spot, many are orthodox but possess subtler problems of character that ought to be just as disqualifying. In Phillippians 2 Paul references problems of practice and character that should remove someone from spiritual leadership. A quick look at five thoughts the Holy Spirit gives us in this passage will help clarify whom we should accept for spiritual oversight,1 and whom we should not.

1. Likemindedness (Phil. 2:20)

“Likeminded” (or like-souled: ισοψυχος, isopsuchos) is a new word to Paul’s readers, never before appearing in his writings and not to appear again in Scripture. It’s a word of comparison, and a word of creation. Though the KJV uses the word “mind,” the second half of the word is actually “soul.” Since God knows the difference, it will be helpful to remember.

Discussion

When a Monster Comes to Church

dcbii
In almost every area of our society, sex offenders and pedophiles are considered monsters. Those who prey on the weak and defenseless are rejected, marked, avoided, and even persecuted. There is a valid societal safety need to protect ourselves and our loved ones. But are these people beyond hope? Does the church have a responsibility to minister to them? And if so, how?

Another article on the same topic:

Sex Offenders in the Pew

Discussion

New Age Music

Barbara H.
This is a question about music in general as opposed to church music, but this seemed the best forum for it: if not, please feel free to move it some place more appropriate.

Every now and then someone will recommend music to me that I find, when I try to learn more about the artist, is classified as New Age Music.

Some years ago our local Christian radio station did a series about New Age Music and the employment of “spirit guides” and other New Age elements creating the music.

Discussion

Good church in Fort Knox, KY

Mike Durning
Friends, I’m looking for a good church in Fort Knox, Kentucky, for a former attender who is moving down there for a job. Suggestions?

Discussion

Evaluating Our Preaching

Ron Bean
In a prominent IFB church with a pastor with a D.Min from well-known IFB school, the sermon begins. The pastor reads his text from Genesis 27 and within five minutes is warning against the danger of children having television sets in their rooms. In the evening service another text from Genesis is chosen and during the course of the message the pastor explains why husbands should be the primary operators of the family car. I hear this and I ask myself, “Do these men ever listen to themselves?”

Discussion

Sovereign Grace Music recommendations

Jonathan Charles
I just purchased the 2 vol. Sovereign Grace Worship Songbook. I want our church to begin singing some of these songs. Does anyone have any recommendations as to which of the 258 are the most well-known. Kind of looking for the Sovereign Grace greatest hits. Thanks!

Discussion

The Apostle Paul - A quick thought on strong yet loving leadership

Joel Tetreau
I’ve always sided with Barnabas in the “Barnabas vs. Paul” episode that takes place just before the 2nd missionary journey. Most will say “both were right.” Many will say “Paul was right.” I’ve taken the view over the years that Barnabas was right….or at least “more right.” I will admit that because my favorite NT character is Barnabas there have been times I’ve been tempted to think of the Aposlte Paul as someone who ministerd without a visible love for his brothers.

Discussion