Philippians - A Partnership Perspective - Philippians 1:1-11
PHILIPPIANS: Together for the Gospel
A Partnership Perspective
(Philippians 1:1-11)
Message Slides
Paul’s Prayers for the Churches - Wilson
Prayer in the Letters of Paul - George Guthrie
Thanksgiving, Affection , and Prayer - George Guthrie
For the bulletin in PDF form, click here.
INTRODUCTION: Church History
• A Teamwork Perspective (1-2)
In a thriving church everyone plays an important role.
- Servant Leaders - Servant Saints
• A Thankful Perspective (3-6)
In a thriving church partnership is focused on the gospel.
- Partnership (κοινωνία) in the Gospel - Completion until the day of Christ
• A Tenderhearted Perspective (7-8)
In a thriving church God’s grace and affection bind us together.
- Sharing in God’s Grace
- The Affection (σπλάγχνον) of Christ Jesus
• A Theocentric Perspective (9-11)
In a thriving church constant growth brings glory to God.
- Growing Love
- Deeper Knowledge
- Practical Discernment - Righteous Living
True partnership in ministry demands a close knit community empowered by and committed to the gospel of grace constantly growing in spiritual maturity to the glory of God.
The Centrality of the Gospel in Philippians
I thank my God every time I remember you.
In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy
because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.
Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me
has really served to advance the gospel.
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel...
But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Home Church Questions
Read Philippians 1:1-11.
What stands out that relates to the life and ministry of FBC?
This is probably the most positive and encouraging of Paul’s epistles. Given
that there is no perfect church, what effect does Paul’s attitude of
gratefulness and encouragement have on the life of a local church?
Writing his letter to the Philippians while in prison, Paul’s focus was not on
himself and his situation, but on the church he loved. How can you keep your focus on the welfare and progress of others even when you find yourself in difficult circumstances?
Paul’s encouragement was reinforced with his prayers for the Philippian church (vv. 4 and 9), challenging them to greater effective-ness. Discuss among your group the different aspects of church life that you can pray for. How faithful are you in praying for FBC?
Read Paul’s prayer in verses 9 through 11. What factors can produce spiritual complacency in the life of a believer? How would you describe your spiritual progress at this time as it compares to Paul’s prayer?
Read verse 6 and reflect back on your spiritual life to this point. Are you discouraged about your life situation right now? If so, have the group pray for you that you can rest in God’s promise in this verse.
Mission Prayer Focus
The Jat people, numbering over 13 million hold great pride in their ancestry and maintain strong clan identities. The Jats have been predominantly Muslim since the 11th century. Pray for workers to live among the Jat, embodying the teachings of Jesus and sharing the hope of the Gospel.
Finances
Weekly Budget 35,297
Giving For 12/22 65,677
Giving For 12/29 46,065
YTD Budget 917,726
Giving 896,890
OVER/(UNDER) (20,836)
Fellowship 101
We invite you to join us on Sunday, January 12, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to hear about our mission, values, and ministries. If you’re new to Fellowship, join us in the
conference room (first floor) to hear what God is doing and where He is taking us. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register.
New to Fellowship?
We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift.
Christmas Offering for Operation Christmas Child
There is still time to give to the 2024 Christmas Offering, which funds the 2025 Special Pack in October. Envelopes are by the offering baskets, or you can give online at fellowshipconway.org/give.
Fellowship Women’s Bible Study
“Gideon” by Priscilla Shirer, led by Susan Woole, will be Mondays, January 27-March 17, 9:30-11:00 a.m. here at Fellowship. Please purchase your workbook ahead of the class. For more information, contact Susan Woole at 501-269-2666. Child care is available by texting Shanna at 501-336-0332.
Fellowship Men’s Breakfast
Men, join us for a great breakfast and fellowship on Wednesday, January 8, at 6:00 a.m. here in the Fellowship atrium. No sign-up is needed. Come with your Bible ready to eat, fellowship with other men, and start your day off right through prayer and Biblical insight. Questions? Contact Michael at mharrison@fellowshipconway.org.
Fellowship Kids 101 Lunch - Sunday, January 12, 12:30 p.m.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about what we offer for your family in Fellowship Kids. If your family is new to Fellowship Kids or even if you’ve been here for a while but would just like to get more information about our ministry, please join us! Registration deadline is January 3. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register Childcare is available by texting Shanna at 501-336-0332.
Discover YOU
This small-group experience will help you discover, optimize and unleash the resources God has placed inside you. Your “SHAPE” is the unique combination of your personality, strengths, skills, gifts, and passion. Join Cathy Lee on Sunday, January 12th at 9am in Room 2101 to explore if this 7 week journey is right for you. www.fellowshipconway.org/equipping.
Conway Mobile Pack
Grab your Home Church, family, and friends, and spend time making a difference while wearing a stylish hairnet. Slots are available to pack meals that will be sent to people in need of food worldwide. Go to https://tinyurl.com/4d5hmhnj to find your time slot(s).