Real Mature (W2D2) Friendly Fire

Week 2. Tuesday: Friendly Fire

PRAY: Ask God to speak to you from His Word.

READ: Philippians 1:15-17

15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.

UNDERSTAND: get a deeper understanding of the key words

1. Begin by underlining nouns with a single line, double underline verbs, and circle descriptive words.

2. Make a list of the key words/phrases and think about what they mean.

Snapshot: In this passage Paul tells us about a group of people that were at odds with him. Apparently these people were preaching the gospel but had some personal issue with Paul. They may have been critical of Paul’s speaking abilities or the fact that he was always suffering in some way. Paul says these critics were not motivated by love, but by envy and selfish ambition. They wanted to gain a following for themselves so they tried to stir up trouble for Paul who was already suffering for the sake of the gospel!

Takeaway: Believers may disagree but should never be divided (see Luke 9:49-50).

APPLY: What is this passage calling me to do?

Paul talks about envy and rivalry between believers. What are some things that divide local churches?

What are some ways you can avoid that kind of division?

PRAY: Ask God to help you be a person of unity and encouragement.