What does an ancient letter have to say about living through the current political and social tension in America? The church at Philippi was founded in a society fiercely loyal to Rome. The early church clashed with the politics and social issues of the day. Into this tension, the apostle Paul writes a letter encouraging the church to embrace a specific mindset of Jesus in all their relationships as a way of influencing the culture for Christ. Philippians offers a hopeful and compelling message church that will equip us to love others well in the complexity of our modern culture.

Related Topics: Conflict | More Messages from Joel Zeiner

From Series: "Philippians"

Even though it was written centuries ago, Philippians is a particularly compelling book for us right now. Our country is divided by social and political issues which inevitably trickle into our families, our workplaces, our culture, and even the church. How are God’s people supposed to live in these tension-filled times? Paul’s wisdom to the church in Philippi provides answers and offers direction. The Philippian church existed in its own hotbed of cultural and political tension. Paul encouraged them to lean into the tension with a specific mindset of Jesus, who humbled himself by considering the needs of others before his own. By adopting this same mindset of humility as God’s people, we can fight for unity and connection in the midst of division. Whose thinking and way of life should we follow? Paul makes the case for it to be Jesus – and we need Him now more than ever.

Bulletin     Reading Plan     Study Guide