JCservant

In the introduction, servant was described as one who is solely committed to another. Saints were consecrated to God. Both slave and saint are 'set apart' for the service of God. As a born-again follower of Christ, we are being transformed into His image heart, soul, and mind.

Q4. (1:9-11) Why does Paul ask God to give the Philippian Christians discernment? What will be the result of discernment in their lives? How does selfishness cloud discernment? How is the good the enemy of the best in our lives? Discernment is needed to know the will of God, what pleases Him, what He would have us do or say. It is also needed to recognize false apostles and/or deceitful workers. (2 Corinthians 11:13) The end of discernment - "To the end He may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints." (I Thess. 3:13) Selfishness and what we see as good, comes from our perspective as humans. God's purposes and will require us to be open and submissive to His will and purpose - from His perspective. This could only come through His Spirit and Word.

Q3. (1:6) What does Paul expect God to do for the Philippian believers? Why does he expect God to do this? What is the basis of Paul's confidence? On what basis can we expect God to do this for us? The Lord will work in us - teaching, guiding, correcting, transforming, us until the day of Christ. It is the purpose and will of God to do this. The power of the Holy Spirit will accomplish God's work in us. We can expect this of God, because Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith.

@JCservant What other kinds of support might we offer besides financial? We can volunteer, pray, give encouragement, share in fellowship and in reading God's Word, stay updated with letters and newsletters.

Hi, my name is Jackie. I am from Missouri. I look forward to learning and sharing with you from the book of Philippians.