Connected to the Family

40 Days of Community: Part 3

Philippians 2:1-4

Pastor Joel Sutton, Sunday, October 5, 2008

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We are formed for God's family.

"In love, he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will . . ." (Eph. 1:5; NIV)

"In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering. Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers." (Heb. 2:10-11; NIV)

As family, we are to live in harmony. (Phil. 2:1-2).

There is harmony in God's family. . .

. . . when there is selflessness.

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition." v. 3

"Look out for one another's interest, not just your own." v. 4.

. . . when there is humility.

"Do nothing out of . . . vain conceit." v. 3

"In humility consider others better than yourselves." v. 3

"Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble." (1Peter 3: 8; NIV)

Take Home Idea: Selflessness and humility enable us to live in loving harmony with each other in the family of God.