The epistle of Second Timothy is considered to be one of Paul’s most personal letters. He is writing during his second and final imprisonment to his trusted and beloved son in the faith. Paul knows his execution is imminent. His concern is not for himself, but for Timothy, who must continue in the spiritual battle. His theme, “the good soldier of Jesus Christ” follows that of first Timothy, “Fight the good fight” (1Ti 1:18; 1Ti 6:12).
Gene Cunningham - May 20, 2003
Losing To Gain #2
Phi 3:7-8 implies progression -- "advantages and achievements" mentioned in Phi 3:4-6. Paul expresses confidence because of what the Philippians had been doing regarding giving and devotion (Phi 1:6, Phi 4:19). Suffering is inevitable; joy is optional - "set before you" -- victory that hasn't yet come. Paul didn't come up with losing to gain on his own; he received it from Christ (2Ti 2:12, Mat 5:12). A disciple is a learner (Phi 4:11) and being conformed to the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). Every command in the epistles are aimed at the goal of conformity. Jesus Christ is the grand example to be followed (Phi 3:17). Four "ifs" followed by four "let"; you have to allow God to fill, empower, and make you whole (Phi 2:1-4). We can appropriate the same attitude that Christ had which carried Him through His suffering (Phi 2:5-11). Death begins when flesh is on the throne. Life is in Christ (Gal 2:20). Humility is giving up what is advantage to you to serve someone else. Condescension -- identifying with the neediest and vialest of people; "He bore in His body" and "became sin for us". Obedience -- he became mediator (1Ti 2:5) and saviour as an example to those who follow Him. The result is exultation from the Father. Mindset is everything (Phi 2:21). Paul's "gain" was (1) the Philippians (Phi 1:3-8); (2) assisting them in their walk (Phi 1:9), (3) unrivaled historical impact on friend and foe alike (Phi 1:13-18), (4) a confidence and boldness that took advantage of opportunities in life (Phi 1:19-26)
Scripture References: Philippians 3:4-6, Philippians 3:17, Philippians 1:9, Philippians 3:7-8, Romans 8:29, Philippians 1:3-8, Philippians 4:11, Philippians 2:21, Matthew 5:12, Galatians 2:20, Philippians 4:19, Philippians 2:5-11, Philippians 1:19-26, Philippians 1:6, Philippians 2:1-4, Philippians 1:13-18
From Series: "Philippians - Losing To Gain - June 2008"
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