GROW IN LOVE AND KNOWLEDGE

PROCLAMATION

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; That ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”  Philippians 1:9-11 (KJV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written in a letter by the Apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, to the believers in the church at Philippi.  After introducing himself and greeting them, Paul offered a prayer for them knowing that the good work which Christ had begun in them would be completed. (Philippians 1:3-6)  He prayed that they would grow in love and in knowledge and in insight, so that they would know and do what is good and right to the glory and praise of God. (Ephesians 1:9-11)  The Paul went on to explain how his present incarceration had helped the spread of the gospel.  Then he told them how the gospel should be preached. (Philippians 1:12-18)  He stated that for him to live is to live in Christ, and for him to die he will gain.  He wanted his life and his death to give God glory. (Philippians 1:20-24)  He ended by telling them that he knows that they will be happy to see him when he comes to them.  He told them to let their conversation be Christ-like whether he is with them or not.  He said that they should not be terrified by their enemies; they are not only to believe in Christ but they would suffer for Christ’s sake. (Philippians 1:25-30)

 

APPLICATION

As believers we are to love all of God’s people, even those who are difficult to love.  We should love that person but make it clear to them that we do not always love their behavior.  However, there are some people that we need to love at a distance.  We need to learn how to love with knowledge and discernment because there are some individuals who would take advantage of us.  We need God’s help in deciding what is the best thing, and right thing to do.  If we are left on our own we will often choose the wrong path.  Additionally, as we deal with people, we need to be sincere and honest.  The truth may offend some people, but we should speak the truth in an effort to be helpful and therefore be blameless. (Philippians 1:10)  We should always speak in such a way as to be helpful and to edify the body of Christ.  We should THINK before we speak, and make sure that what we say is Truthful, Helpful, Informative, Necessary, and Kind.  In all that we do, it should be done to the glory and praise of God.