Ecclesiastical Reciprocity
by Rev. Kirby Williams
Learning valuable lessons from the reciprocal relationship between Paul and the church at Philippi.
Text: Phil. 4:10-11
Date: 05/04/2025, the Evening service.
Series: "Evenfall; Sunday Evening Worship" Part 33
Description:
As Paul begins to wrap up his letter to the Philippians, his mind returns to one of his major themes-- his thankfulness for the Philippians' generosity in supporting him in his times of need. But when we take a closer look at the words Paul uses, we will realize he goes beyond gratitude and establishes a healthy relationship between them. Social thinkers from the Greek philosophers in Paul's day to the present refer to this relationship as "social reciprocity". But rather than the flat, "horizontal" model that is most often discussed with this social construct, we will see that in Christianity, there is a three-sided model. For those who are "In Christ" have another dimension added to giving and receiving that when carefully implemented, brings about perfect equality within the church. Ultimately, as both pastor and congregant, we will learn valuable lessons from Paul's idea of Ecclesiastical Reciprocity!
View:
Options:
I. Introduction, Matt. 5:38, 7:12.
II. Exposition of the text, Phil. 4:10-11.
A. Context, Phil 1:4.
B. A short study on Ecclesiastical Reciprocity.
1. Rejoicing over the Philippians' concern, vs. 10.
a. Knowing how to rejoice.
i. Paul's "mega-joy", Phil 4:4.
ii. In-tune with Christ.
iii. The reason for Paul's joy.
b. A renewed concern.
i. A lengthy hiatus, Phil. 4:15; 2Cor. 11:9.
ii. The springtime of their concern.
1) A "revived" concern.
2) A compassionate concern, Phil. 1:7, 2:2,5, 3:15, 4:2.
iii. A hasty qualification.
2. Content in every situation, vs. 11.
a. A further qualification.
i. A strong negation, Phil 4:17; 2Cor. 1:24; 2Th. 3:7-9.
ii. In need, but not destitute, Luke 21:4.
b. A comprehensive explanation.
i. Looking at the words.
1) Learning from experience, Acts 9:16.
2) Regardless of circumstances.
3) Self-sufficient.
ii. Paul's true friendship.
III. Application
IV. Conclusion
