Philippians 2:14-16

Journey Through Philippians

Why is complaining and arguing so harmful? If all people know about a church is that its members frequently argue, complain, and gossip, they get a false impression of Christ. Belief in Christ should unite those who trust him. If people in your church often complain and argue, they lack the unifying power of Jesus Christ. Stop arguing with other Christians and complaining about people and conditions within the church. Instead, patiently work on your issues, and let the world see Christ.  

Another word for complaining is grumbling. Grumbling in Greek means “muttering an inner rebellion that defies God to his face and disputes his right to rule.” The word blameless in verse 15 means “above reproach.” The Greek word translated “innocent” is also used to describe undiluted wine or unalloyed gold jewelry.   

Paul wants the Philippians to be genuine in their faith, and Jesus wants us to be genuine in our relationship with him. He knows our every weakness and the things we struggle with that separate us from Him. As believers, we must come to understand that our lives and our will no longer rule supreme when we give our lives to Jesus.  

As Christians, our lives should not be fulfilled by the things of this world, but they should be driven by the desire to serve and glorify God with our lives. True fulfillment comes from serving God and living a life that is pleasing and glorifies Him. 

Matthew 5:14-16 tells us that “we are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In this way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Today, let us ask our heavenly Father to show us how we can let our light shine to a world that so desperately needs Jesus.