All the Saints. Philippians 1:1. “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons;” Paul and Timotheus were men of different ages, backgrounds, and countries. One was much older than the other, but God brought them together. Each was a servant of the Lord in his own way and served in his own right by the choice of the sovereign God. One was called to serve the Lord who called him in the Gospel and dramatically, unforgettably, blazed new trails across the Middle East and into Europe.
Timothy was relatively young, impressionable, sensitive, and eager but uncertain. He wanted to please God and, as a result, inspired others with his genuine faith. Paul was outspoken, passionate, and dedicated to the cause of the Gospel and his God. Timothy was willing to follow instructions and happy to serve the older servant in any way. One led openly as a leader of “The Way,” facing each challenge without hesitation. The other was willing to handle mundane tasks, obeying directions and making things easier for Paul. Both were servants of Jesus Christ; both recognized His sovereignty and authority. Both were caring men who served those God cared for: like-minded, responsive to needs—servants.
Though we are all different, God calls us to live and serve our Lord with wholeness and purpose, not wasting time in God’s eyes, but being chosen, elected, and of utmost importance to Him. God’s servants are saints without statues, honored in their memory. Their reason for existence has a purpose, even if it is not fully understood. Meeting at a common gathering Center, in the Lord’s name and for His presence, is why they know each other. Living in the same city and brought together by God’s grace, we come together in fellowship and unity, needing to be preserved for God. Servants and saints, brothers and sisters, believers and witnesses—these are children of God who love the Lord, followers of Christ—Saints.
Responsible men are tested and proven; they do not abandon the work they are called to. They rely on both their hearts and minds to draw spiritual and scriptural conclusions. Leaders of men face hard questions without turning away. They pray for answers in peace, trusting that God has given them this task. They shepherd God’s sheep and lambs, understanding that sheep need nourishment and lambs need careful tending. They serve others by listening to God and acting accordingly. They make decisions collectively, considering options and weighing their choices. Some are cautious, while others are bold, quiet, and forthright—plain of speech and careful with their words. They are not content with leaving things undone but are prepared for every good work. They feel humbled when God blesses them, thankful for each step forward seen in others, and appreciative of small things. These are men of the Word, quoting relevant scriptures and applying what truly addresses the issues—shepherds who feed, experienced elders, bishops who watch, and leaders.
Those who serve God’s people are men who are ready to work and willing to act when given a task. They are careful with their responsibility, viewing it as a privilege. They do not complain about the workload; they are thankful for the opportunity to help. They rise to the challenge, stay faithful until the work is finished, and do not quit. They accept what they may not understand and fulfill what is expected of them.
Such men are trustworthy and willing to be counted on. They are there when needed, knowing they are expected to do their assigned work without constant instructions. Recognizing what needs to be done and taking action, they accept criticism as part of the process, understanding not everyone will be pleased. Often sacrificing their own needs so others can have what they require, they prioritize others' comfort. They are willing to do the same thing repeatedly for God’s glory, looking beyond tomorrow to the ultimate goal. “Standing in the gap,” building up the wall, fixing the broken gates of truth, they do what they do in the name of the Lord, not for human praise but as standard-bearers. They are deacons who serve others at their own expense – Ministers.
Obedience is a trait of servanthood that is both expected and valued. Paul wanted to go from Mysia to Bithynia, but when the call came to Macedonia, He "assuredly gathered" that he was to obey that call. This led him to Philippi, where a new work in a new region began. It is one of the things that brings joy to a believer or servant that cannot be easily defined. Being in the place God wants us, doing what God wants us to do, brings us joy regardless of any difficulties and, to some extent, regardless of the results. "One plants, another waters, and God gives the increase." The joy of working with the Almighty God is beyond words when you can share that work with a son in the faith, which also brings great joy.
There's something very special about when people agree on anything, especially critical life and death issues like the Gospel. You feel drawn to them when you seek their advice and fellowship. You truly want to listen to what they say because there appears to be no sign of selfishness or greed on their part.
Two preachers united in their calling and preaching have important messages to share. There is clear evidence that before they speak, they pray. The truths they shared yesterday through their sermons are visible in their lives today, and you can be confident they know the way to God and how to live for Him. When brothers and sisters gather together in one place and unity is present, you feel glad to see each person’s joyful face. When you discuss the life of faith, you share meaningful experiences of God’s grace. We are amazed by God’s grace when the time comes to depart again.
Spiritual leaders quickly recognize the state of all the sheep under their care, given to them by the Lord. They understand that the Chief Shepherd has appointed them to keep the lambs from wandering off the path of righteousness into dangerous places. They genuinely care that everyone they oversee is safe and fed before they rest. Before planning, deacons ensure that their actions will benefit all the saints the most. They know that what is taught must be based on scripture and truth. Anything new must be tested before being shared publicly. They carefully consider everything they want to say before concluding their message. A well-functioning church is a beautiful sight. Every member sees themselves as being right where the Lord wants them. The gifts are allowed to operate fully, and each person knows there is a place for them in this church.
Philippians has often been called the Epistle of Joy. The Christian life is meant to be bright and joyful. God's people should be joyful. The first eleven verses serve as an introduction, like the driveway leading to a big house. The beginning of Paul's work is detailed in Acts 16:7-10. God’s way of reaching people is through the obedience of His servants. In Philippi, it depended on Paul’s obedience. God closed one door and opened another. We are very familiar with the truth of forgiveness, but we have almost reached a point where obedience seems optional. Why worry about obeying God if I can simply turn to 1Jn.1:9 and confess my sins? Revival would happen here if we were willing to go out and do what we know God wants us to do. The success of any church depends on the obedience of its members.
There wouldn’t be an assembly if someone were unwilling to be an obedient servant. There is a unique connection with people we know in an area where we presented the Gospel, and the Lord saved those dear saints. By the word of the Gospel and the power of the Spirit, they were set apart for God now and forever. "All the saints" indicates the rich and poor, old and young, wise and simple, the successful, and those who struggle are all one in Christ Jesus. An assembly of believers like the one at Philippi all participate in the same blessing. In Christ, we are neither "Jews nor Gentiles, but the church of God."