The works begins in Philippi

Sermon notes

Directed by God to take the gospel into the continent of Europe, Paul begins his gospel work in Philippi. The details of how that work began is given in these verses.

From small beginnings it grew and developed wonderfully, not only locally but eventually to alter the face of Europe and the world. If for no other reason, the beginnings of this work are worthy of careful study.

I  THE WORK BEGINS IN A SABBATH PRAYER MEETING.

This is no accidental occurrence! It is obvious from the record that this was a very deliberate action on Paul’s part.

1. Preparation. As Paul begins his work it is clear that there has been a measure of Divine preparation already in place. The gospel cause rarely begins/develops without some such preparation. Cp Jn 4:38. There had clearly been an impact made in advance by the law of God.
2. Sabbath observance, v13. There is clearly a desire to observe the Sabbath day here. There was a knowledge of the 4th commandment of the Moral Law and the requirements for worship made of men. Cp v14. There are two things to consider here. First, the work of the Law is suggested. Such work is always necessary to prepare the way for the gospel. Cp Rom 3:19-26, Gal 3:19. It is also necessary to regulate the lives of those who believe, 1Cor 9:21. Second, the importance of the weekly Sabbath day. God has ordained a weekly Sabbath. It is still in effect, though to be observed on the first day of the week. Cp Heb 4:9
3. Prayer, v13. There was a spirit of humbly seeking God in place. The work of God advances in prayer. That is consistently seen through the Acts.
4. Foundational. In some sense these things are to be seen as basic to the work of God. No work of God can proceed without prayer, and the importance of God’s day as the day of worship cannot be underestimated.
5. An inauspicious beginning. There were, it seems, but a few who gathered in this way. The location argues for this. Without grand facilities a gathering of women was held in this way. No man was impressed enough with these concerns to join the assembly. How often spiritual concerns are dismissed as being unmanly, the interests of women or children!
6. Teaching. The work now takes on a new dimension. Apostolic teaching is added to the solemn gathering for prayer. The Lord often makes such provision for those who wait on Him. Paul did not dismiss or despise this gathering but went to the work of teaching. The doctrine of the Apostles is necessary to the advance of the work of God.

II  LYDIA IS CONVERTED UNDER PAUL’S PREACHING.

One particular, necessary aspect of this advance is specially brought to our notice. Lydia is converted.

1. A wealthy businesswoman. Lydia has learned that there are more important things than business! She had become a worshipper of God. Cp Mk 8:36. What mercy is shown here given the words of the Saviour, Matt 19:24-25.
2. Listened. She listened to the message that Paul brought. This is where faith originates, Rom 10:13-17. There can never be any experience of salvation apart from the word of God.
3. God worked in her heart, v14. Under the influence of the word, God worked in her heart to cause her to receive His word. Cp 1 Pet 1:21-25, James 1:21, 2Thess 3:10. This is simply regeneration. The evidence of this work was an attentive spirit. The heart by nature is closed against the gospel. Cp Matt 13:13-15. It must be observed that though she had been influenced by spiritual things to a significant degree, she was not yet a believer. Such a work of Divine grace and power is necessary to salvation.

III   THE FRUITS OF FAITH AND GRACE.

1. Baptized. She was baptized as an evidence of her faith in the gospel. This was a symbolic cleansing rite, developed out of the Levitical washing rites (Heb 9:10). In this way she indicated an understanding of the cleansing effect of the gospel, 22:16, Titus 3:5; and the call of God to holy living. Her household was also baptized, indicating they too had embraced the gospel. Cp v34.
2. Judged…faithful, v15. There is here an important attitude demonstrated. She recognized the need to be proved faithful and the vital role of assessment. Here was a woman ready to prove herself to be the Lord’s. The circumstances of life are a testing ground for a profession of faith.
3. Willing to help. She places her home at the disposal of the Apostle and his fellow workers. Here is an evidence of conversion. This was no half-hearted effort! She besought and constrained them evidently showing zeal for their cause.