Reflections On Philippians...

In this week's sermon from our sub-series through Philippians, we discussed some foundational points of Christian doctrine aimed at understanding Jesus' divinity so that we could better understand and appreciate his humility.  This was the Apostle Paul's purpose in this portion of his letter to the Philippians.  In directing their gaze upon the person and work of Christ, he was pointing them to something greater than themselves.

Often times, I will hear Christians dismiss the importance of studying and understanding doctrine and theology.  Many would prefer to study "5 Steps to being a better ________" over the 5 Solas or the 5 Points of Calvinism.  I think the problem is that, too often, we allow ourselves to be intimidated by the magnitude and complexities of undertaking to study doctrine and theology.

It is true, that we don't have to be John Calvin or Augustine to be saved.  In fact, the robustness of our theological understanding contributes nothing to our salvation.  Anyone who teaches otherwise reveals their own theological ignorance.  No...salvation is found only through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ.  It isn't about what we do, but rather what Christ has done for us.

However, that doesn't mean that theology isn't important for believers.  Theology at its most basic is simply thinking about God...and what we think (and believe) about God is of paramount importance.  We live in a time where we have more access to information than ever before.  The internet has put the entire history of human thinking at our fingertips.  But with this wealth of information comes a whole new set of challenges and dangers.  When everyone is given a voice, sometimes those who merely speak the loudest get heard.  If we aren't able to discern for ourselves what is true, according to the only absolute standard of truth (the Bible), then we are at great risk to fall into error and be led astray.

As Christians, we should desire to be accurate and orthodox in what we believe about God, and we can't believe what we don't know.  However, we must remember that our purpose in pursuing knowledge of God should always be that our pursuit of knowledge would lead us to love and worship him more fully.

In his exhortation to the Philippians to sacrificially love and care for one another and pursue unity, Paul didn't write a lengthy discourse listing all of the benefits of doing so in hopes of persuading them to agree with his way of thinking.  Instead, he simply pointed them to what was true about their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Paul understood that only God has the power to change hearts and minds.  If we want to grow in maturity as believers, we have to know and believe what is true about God, and allow that truth to penetrate our hearts and minds.

For additional information on this week's passage and some of the theological and doctrinal truths we discussed in our study, check out these valuable resources:

Philippians 2 by Sam Storms

What is the Doctrine of the Trinity? by Matt Perman

What's the Difference between the Ontological and the Economic Trinity? by RC Sproul

In Grace,
Chris Morris

If you missed this week's sermon (or just want to listen again), follow the link below to listen. Or subscribe to our podcast in iTunes.

Part 6 - A Slice of Humble Pie

Questions discussed in this sermon:
1. Who is Jesus and is he God?
2. What is the Trinity and how does it work?
3. What does Jesus' humility teach us about how we should live and interact with others?Reflections on Philippians...