Medal of Honor

Philippians 2:19-30 | Ben Potloff | Who doesn’t appreciate a good example? Anyone faced with an important or complicated task can see the value in an example. Elementary-age kids are given examples of good handwriting as they learn. Parents show teenagers how to parallel park before turning them loose on the streets of Clark County. In Philippians 2:19-30, the Apostle Paul offers two good examples for us. After reveling in the humility of Christ (Philippians 2:1-11) and the implications of this humility on the Christian life (Philippians 2:12-18), Paul now presents Timothy and Epaphroditus, two of his gospel co-workers, as examples of service and humility that the Philippians ought to emulate.MAIN IDEAHonor in the Lord those you see the Lord in.OUTLINEI. Timothy, a son of proven worth who served selflessly. (vv. 19-24)II. Epaphroditus, a brother worthy of honor who risked his life. (vv. 25-30)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. In this passage, we see examples in Timothy and Epaphroditus of the humility and selflessness Paul has been calling the Philippians to. Who is someone in your life who is an example to you of Christlike humility and selflessness? 2. Paul discipled Timothy. Paul and Epaphroditus discipled and served together. What discipleship relationships do you have in your life? Who is discipling you? Who are you discipling? Why do you think these kinds of relationships are important in the Christian life? 3. Sam Crabtree, in his book, Practicing Affirmation, says: “God is glorified in us when we affirm the work he has done and is doing in others.” How can you affirm Christlikeness in those around you? Why do you think we don’t do this very often?