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OVERCOMING CONFLICT
FRIDAY, JUNE 9
Philippians 4:1-2

1 Peter 3:8-11

 

“…be of the same

mind in the Lord.”

 

OVERCOMING CONFLICT
 
In the final chapter of this epistle, Paul had to deal with some personal and rather sensitive issues. He wrote in a tender, fatherly manner as he dispensed spiritual advice to the Philippian Christians. Because of his close relationship with them, he was in a good position to mediate. He began his plea with a sincere reminder of how dear they were to him. He approached them as a friend who loved them dearly and truly wanted what was best for them.
 
Paul addressed their church problem head-on by naming the two parties – Euodias and Syntyche. However, he did not come with authority, but by “beseeching” or pleading. These were two women from Philippi who were likely at the very heart of the conflict. The reason for their falling out is not known, but we do know that they were both Christians serving in some capacity in the church. It seems that they had a disagreement, and were no longer of one mind. They thought differently and had differing opinions on whatever matter was at hand, and that caused a rift to occur between some in the church.
 
Paul’s message to them was that “they be of the same mind in the Lord.” He wanted them to realise their commonality in the Lord. They must be of one mind because they were all Christians, and like-mindedness is expected of every believer. This is certainly nothing new, for it was an instruction that had already been repeated multiple times throughout the epistle (Phil 1:27; 2:2-5; 3:15-16).
 
Note that there is a difference between uniformity and commonality. Paul was not calling for them to have no individuality, or to mindlessly conform to just one standard. He was emphasising the fact that they were both in the Lord, and therefore ought to have common ambitions, goals, and desires. Their lives must be lived in accordance with the Word of God, purposing to serve and glorify God. If that commonality was reached, then surely, there would be a lot less conflict, and a lot more sweet fellowship in the church.
 
THOUGHT: What has Paul taught concerning the “mind” so far in this epistle to the Philippians?

PRAYER: Father, guide my thoughts and desires by Thy Word.

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