Unity Among Christian Sisters  - Philippians 4:2-9

 - Background and context.  Paul wrote this letter from prison to the Chuch in Philippi, to encourage them and that the two members withconflict needs to put their differences aside and come together as one voice in one spirit for Jesus Christ. 

 - These Women.  Euodia and Syntyche are the two women with the conflict with each other.  It was personal and not doctrinal.

 - Church at Philippi - First Christian Church in Europe.  Was strong in the Lords teaching, but with the two dominate church members having a personal conflict.

 - Paul's Role was to incourage the Church of the good work they are doing and also to point out a major issue where two member were having issues with each other.  He stressed working together in unity and love.

 - Theme(s) of Philippians

What is the problem?   Euodia and Syntyche were two significant members who were not working together to further the work of the Loard.  

 - Conflict Resolution.  Need other members and Paul to lovingly resolve the issue by focusing on the Lords work and the unity of His Church.   Paul lovingly addressed this issue in Philippi.

 What does this have to do with us?  We all run into conflicts and we need to address these conflicts personally or if it is within the congregation address the issue in a Godly way.  

Steps to Unity

   A. Don't Assume.  Go to the individual personally and discuss the issue and resolve it quickly in a lovingly way.

   B. Be Humble.  Cloth yourself with humility.

   C. Confront Appropriately and in a Timely Manner.  Don't let it fester.

   D. Forgive - be quick to forgive.  God has forgiven you numerous times.  Imitate Him.  Eph 4:31-32.

   E. Can you perhaps Overlook.   Don't make a big deal about something we should let go.  Keep loving because loving covers multiple sins.

   F. Rejoice in the Lord, alway   Philipians 4:4-9;   This puts your mind on a higher plane and will overshadow your conflicks. 

  G. Be known for you Gentle Disposition.  Listen to what others say and understand then respond in a Lovingly and thoughtful way.

  H. Don't worry,  God will get you through this. (Phil 4:6)

  I.  Pray.  Pray for help and the right attitude to go forward to resolve the issue.

  J.  Think Well of everyone.  We all make mistakes and look at all the good the person has done in the past.  (Phil 4:8)