“to the glory and praise of God [so that His glory may be both revealed and recognized].” Philippians 1:11 (AMP)
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Philippians 1: 9 – 11 is Paul’s prayer for a Church in an important City – a Roman colony, military outpost and trade centre!
Why would Paul eagerly desire for the Church to be growing
- in Love (v9)
- Knowledge and understanding (v9)
- Pure and Blameless (v10)
- Filled with the fruit of righteousness (v11)?
The Multiplier effect
Paul wanted the Church at Philippi to be a witness. Given their strategic location and importance, he knew their witness could have a ‘multiplier effect’.
Paul knew the Church’ witness would have a ‘multiplier effect’ given their strategic location and importance.
Churches are not to be mere landmarks in a city. They are meant to be lamp posts that shine a ray of hope. We are to shine God’s grace and peace wherever we are!
For God’s Praise and Glory
The Church – a community of Saints – is meant for ‘the glory and praise of God’. The church – as a faith collective – must bring glory and praise to God through its attitudes, behaviour and choices.
We are to be each for the other and all for the Lord!
Churches are not to be mere landmarks in a city. They are meant to be lamp posts that shine a ray of hope.
Salt and Light
Jesus said, “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” – Matthew 5:16
We are not salesmen for lights and tubes. We are called to be the Salt and the light.
Are we Salty?
But here’s a word of caution! Today, the question is not: Are we the light? But instead, do we burn bright enough? Is it too little, too late?
We are not salesmen for lights and tubes. We are called to be the salt and the light.
The question is not: Are we Salt? Instead, the question is: Have we become salty – a little too much?
Adding The Right flavour
Paul’s words are for us too. The followers of Jesus need to be known for
- The abundance of love and PDAs – Public Display of Affection!
- Real knowledge expressed through practical insight.
- The best moral choices
- Cherishing the real, excellent and delightful.
- Integrity, godly Character and moral courage
Churches are not merely landmarks in Cities. They are witnesses to God’s grace and peace
We are called to be witnesses! Churches in the Cities are witnesses (not merely landmarks!)
We are to be Salt in the marketplace! Let’s add (the right) flavour to our cities!
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