1. WORKING TOGETHER IN THE LOCAL CHURCH
Most congregations troubled at times
Church works when we work together!
Philippi no exception, 1:15-18
Paul’s appeal/solution, 1:27
Trouble between two women in 4:2
Chapter two the focus of study

2. IMPORTANCE OF WORKING TOGETHER
Stand fast
For the faith of the gospel
In one spirit, with one mind, striving together
World’s greatest work: advancing the Lord’s cause by teaching the gospel

3. UNITY THROUGH HUMILITY
Phil. 2:1-4
Oneness realized through humility
Envy, strife begotten by selfish ambition, conceit
Appeal: Exhortation in Christ, Comfort of love, Fellowship of Spirit, Tender mercies (v. 1)

4. Means: Oneness-Like-minded, same love, one accord, one mind (2)
Basis: Lowliness-esteem others better than self (3)
Action: Helpfulness-Looking out for others
Example: Christ (5-11)-Started in the mind, forgot himself (rank, privilege), served, humbled self, obeyed completely, exalted by Father

5. LESSONS
My way/idea is not necessarily the best (“rule or ruin”; “my way or else”).
Listen to others’ ideas.
Problems begin with undue focus/insistence on self.
I am not more important than others (“Big I, little you”).
Conflicts come from selfish ambition, conceit.

6. WHAT IT TAKES “All of self, and none of Thee.” - childish, elementary
“Some of self, and some of Thee.” - juvenile
“Less of self, and more of Thee.” - “nearly there”
“None of self, and all of Thee.” - mature, adult