Paul’s opening words to the church at Philippi give us a clear framework for relationships that honor God and produce lasting fruit.
1. The People
Paul begins by identifying himself and Timothy not by titles or achievements, but by surrender.
“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,
To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi…”
Philippians 1:1
One was older, one was younger. One was seasoned, one was developing. Yet Paul makes no distinction between them. They were co-servants. Healthy relationships begin when we understand that joy comes from serving, not being served.
The word Paul uses for servant is doulos, a bondservant, someone who voluntarily lays down their will for another. This is the posture that builds unity across generations. When pride dies, joy lives.
Jesus modeled this perfectly when He said He did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life for others. Healthy relationships require humility, surrender, and a willingness to put others first.
Paul also reminds the church that their position in Christ matters more than their location. We all have two addresses, one temporary and one eternal. When we remember who we are in Christ, it changes how we treat one another.
2. The Partnership
Paul’s letter is deeply personal. He tells the Philippians that every time he remembers them, he thanks God. Gratitude strengthens relationships, but only when it’s expressed. If you’re thankful for someone, tell them.
Paul then highlights something essential to healthy relationships: partnership.
“In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”
Philippians 1:4–5
The word partnership is koinonia, shared life, shared mission, shared purpose. Christianity was never meant to be lived alone. The church is not a place to attend; it’s a family to belong to.
Paul’s confidence wasn’t in people, programs, or circumstances, it was in God.
“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:6
We are standing on the shoulders of faithful believers who prayed and served long before us. What we are seeing today is the fruit of seeds planted generations ago. Now it’s our turn to run faithfully, finish well, and pass the baton to the next generation.
Healthy relationships grow when we understand that none of us can do alone what all of us can do together.
3. The Prayer
Paul doesn’t just love the church, he prays for them. And his prayer reveals what healthy relationships require.
“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight…”
Philippians 1:9
Biblical love is not blind. It is rooted in truth. Love without knowledge eventually fades, but love grounded in God’s Word grows stronger over time. Healthy relationships require understanding, especially in marriage, family, and the church.
Paul prays for discernment, the ability to choose what is best, not just what is good. In a world full of opinions, feelings, and voices, discernment protects us from error and guides us toward truth.
The goal of love, knowledge, and discernment is fruit, real fruit that glorifies God.
“…filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.”
Philippians 1:11
Fruit doesn’t come from striving harder; it comes from abiding deeper. Jesus said He is the true vine and we are the branches. When we remain in Him, He produces the fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing.
A Call to Revival and Healthy Relationships
As we begin this year, our prayer is simple:
Lord, apart from You we can do nothing. We cry out for revival in our hearts, our homes, and our church. Produce real fruit in our lives. Help us love with wisdom, walk in truth, and live with joy. We believe You have MORE for us.
May this be a year of healthy relationships, deep joy, and lasting fruit.
If you’re ready to take your next step, fill out a Connection Card or visit one of our campus locations. We would love to pray with you, baptize you, or help you get connected.