Episode 1 | Teamwork **Philippians 1:1-11** Read the full passage: https://www.esv.org/Philippians+1/ Welcome + Warm Up Opening Thought The episode begins with a story about the deep bonds formed among soldiers who fought together during World War II. Those relationships lasted a lifetime because they were united by a common mission and shared sacrifice. In the same way, Paul writes to the church in Philippi with deep affection because they have been partners with him in the Gospel for many years. Their relationship demonstrates the kind of unity that believers share through Jesus Christ. Big Idea The unity we experience on teams, in families, and through shared experiences should point us toward the greater unity we have as brothers and sisters in Christ. Workout **Philippians 1:1-11**"Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Thanksgiving and Prayer 3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. 8 For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." What We Observed 1. Paul Leads as a Servant - "Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus..." (v.1) - Paul introduces himself not by his authority, but by his humility. - Christian leaders are called to serve rather than seek status. - Gospel partnership begins with a servant's heart. 2. Christ Is the Center Throughout the passage, Paul continually points back to Jesus Christ: - Christ Jesus (v.1) - Lord Jesus Christ (v.2) - Day of Jesus Christ (v.6) - Affection of Christ Jesus (v.8) **Jesus is the source of our unity, hope, mission, and growth.** 3. Gospel Partnership Creates Community "...because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now." (v.5) The church at Philippi was made up of very different people, yet they were united by the gospel. The gospel is the good news that: - Jesus lived the life we could not live. - Jesus died the death we deserved. - Jesus rose from the grave. - Through faith in Him we receive forgiveness, righteousness, and eternal life. 4. Paul Deeply Loves the Church "I hold you in my heart..." (v.7) "How I yearn for you all..." (v.8) Paul demonstrates genuine Christian affection and gratitude for fellow believers. 5. Paul Prays for Their Spiritual Growth Paul's prayer is that they would: - Abound more and more in love - Grow in knowledge and discernment - Approve what is excellent - Be pure and blameless - Be filled with the fruit of righteousness - Live for the glory and praise of God Main Truth Paul prays that the Philippians would abound in the fullness of God's love and fruitfulness as faithful partners in the gospel. --- Wrap Up Head (Know) - The gospel creates a family of believers united in Christ. - God finishes the work He starts in His people (Phil. 1:6). - Jesus is the foundation and focus of Christian unity. Heart (Feel) - Gratitude for those who have invested spiritually in your life. - Love and appreciation for your church family. - Joy in being part of God's mission with other believers. Hands (Do) - Pray regularly for fellow believers. - Pursue the spiritual good of others. - Grow in love, wisdom, and discernment. - Be an active partner in the gospel where God has placed you. Key Takeaway **Prayer is the language of dependence.** Paul's love for the Philippians overflowed into prayer. As we grow in gratitude for those God has placed in our lives, we should be driven to pray for them and depend on God to do what only He can do. --- Additional Resources: For Coaches **The Christ-Pursuing Coach** https://crosstrainingpublishing.com/products/the-christ-pursuing-coach?_pos=3&_sid=808124a77&_ss=r For Athletes **The Christ-Pursuing Athlete** https://crosstrainingpublishing.com/products/the-christ-pursuing-athlete?_pos=2&_sid=808124a77&_ss=r
