As Paul continues his call to humble, selfless service for others, he calls the Philippian Church to think like Jesus thought. He explains the attitude of Jesus as he came to earth in the incarnation, took on human form (became a man) and ultimately died for our sins. As believers our motivation for right attitudes and responses to one another is the example of Jesus. Jesus demonstrated humility, by taking on flesh, becoming a man, and giving his life as a sacrifice for our sins. Paul calls believers to take this same attitude, an attitude of humility and serving.
Philippians is a wonderful letter of hopeful encouragement for believers who are struggling with their concern about Paul and his current circumstances, struggling with their thinking about several different issues including: assurance, perseverance, the gospel and mission, partnership, fellowship and unity, and joy. Paul offers specific theological foundations for right thinking about engaging one another in the church. This foundation begins with a right understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he came to accomplish. It is also built on a right approach to the gospel and gospel ministry. This church needs to understand the importance of working together for the advance of the gospel in the church and in their community.
