Lives Worthy of the Gospel

We Worship God
A Guide for Worship Leaders:
The Christ Hymn


Philippians 1:27-30 (The Message)

 ^27-30Meanwhile, live in such a way that you are a credit to the Message of Christ. Let nothing in your conduct hang on whether I come or not. Your conduct must be the same whether I show up to see things for myself or hear of it from a distance. Stand united, singular in vision, contending for people's trust in the Message, the good news, not flinching or dodging in the slightest before the opposition. Your courage and unity will show them what they're up against: defeat for them, victory for you—and both because of God. There's far more to this life than trusting in Christ. There's also suffering for him. And the suffering is as much a gift as the trusting. You're involved in the same kind of struggle you saw me go through, on which you are now getting an updated report in this letter.

For Reflection
In these days of multiple denominations, the church and, therefore, Christianity seems inconsistent.  In America, the Christian church seems to be bent by petty squabbles and struggles for political power and seeking control of individuals.  Christ offers freedom to choose.  Christ offers sanctuary for those who seek His help.  Christ offers salvation to each one of us.  Christ's way is not to preach love and practice war.  If being right prevents others from finding sanctuary in Christ, how righteous is being right?

Pray
that each of us act out of love.  Pray that we are not threatened by the differences we find in the practice of Christianity.  Pray that we are encouraged by the truth in the promise of the Gospel.