Paul’s Prayer for the Philippians (1:9-11)
Lesson Two: Proven Genuine (Philippians 1:10)
1. Introduction: Making Moral Decisions
a. Have you ever found it difficult to make moral decisions in this immoral world?
i. E.g. Selecting appropriate TV shows and movies to watch
1. Do we excuse ungodliness because it’s “not as bad” as what else is on?
2. Do we tolerate entertainment that we wouldn’t tolerate ten years ago?
ii. E.g. Choosing modest apparel to wear
1. Which do we consider first: whether a garment is modest or fashionable?
2. Do we evaluate our dress in terms of purity, simplicity, and example?
b. Paul’s prayer for the Philippians expressed a desire for spiritual discernment and purity.
2. Body: What Paul Prayed
a. That they might approve the things that are excellent
i. This phrase refers to the ability to distinguish between things that differ.
1. “So that you may be able to discern what is best” (NIV)
2. “’With a view to your proving (and so approving and embracing) the things that excel’ (Ro 2:18); not merely things not bad, but the things best among those that are good; the things of more advanced excellence. Ask as to things, not merely, Is there no harm, but is there any good, and which is the best?” (JFB)
ii. We need to grow so that we might distinguish between the:
1. Lawful and unlawful (1Ti. 1:8-11)
2. Holy and unholy (Php. 4:8)
3. Expedient and inexpedient (1Co. 10:23-24)
4. Good, better, and best (Lk. 10:38-42)
b. That they might be sincere
i. We often apply the term sincerity exclusively to a person’s motives.
1. While the term certainly applies to motive, it is broader than just our intent.
2. Sincere: (#1506 εἰλικρινής eilikrinēs) 1) pure, sincere, unsullied 2) found pure when unfolded and examined by the sun’s light (Thayer)
ii. Our purity is measured against the light of God’s truth.
1. With the help of God’s grace, we must strive for purity in all aspects of life.
2. Are we sincere in our: Conversion and commitment to Christ? Speech? Conduct? Motives? Promises? Emotions?
c. That they might be wihout offense till the day of Christ
i. We should never consciously cause another to sin. (Mt. 18:6; Ro. 14:13-15)
1. We must be sensitive to the weakness and conscience of our brother.
2. This doesn’t mean we never hurt feelings; it means we never disregard his best interests and so cause him to sin.
3. Sometimes it is in a brother’s best interests to reprove or rebuke him.
ii. We should strive to live an upright life with a clear conscience. (2Co. 8:18-21)
1. Paul tried not to provide his enemies any opportunity to accuse him.
2. Far from defensive and secretive, a sincere man will be open and honest about his dealings and decisions.
3. Ultimately, the one who is without offense can be confident that the Lord knows His heart and the truth of his actions, regardless of his enemy’s accusations.
3. Conclusion: Application
a. Are we approving the things that are excellent?
i. Do our choices reflect an interest in what is conducive to holy living?
ii. Do we consider whether something is good or only whether it is wrong?
b. Are we striving for sincerity in all aspects of life?
i. Do we excuse unlawful conduct on the basis of a person’s motives? This is not Biblical sincerity!
ii. Are we open and honest about our lives, or are we defensive and secretive?
c. Are we seeking to be without offense?
i. Do we show genuine concern for a weaker brother’s conscience, even if his objections seem silly to us?
ii. Would we willingly forgo certain liberties in the interest of protecting a brother against sin?
d. Will we be proven genuine on the day of Christ?
e. Are we actively seeking these spiritual blessings in prayer?