Living Without Complaining: A Call to Unity
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we gathered to reflect on the importance of living a life free from grumbling and disputing, as instructed in Philippians 2:14-18. We began by acknowledging the beauty of gathering as God's people and the various activities and missions our church is involved in, from potlucks to mission trips. We then delved into the heart of today's message: the sin of complaining.
Complaining is often seen as a minor or "respectable" sin, but Scripture shows us that God takes it very seriously. We looked at the example of the Israelites, who grumbled against God and faced severe consequences. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, urges us to do all things without grumbling or disputing so that we may be blameless and innocent, shining as lights in a crooked and twisted generation.
We discussed how grumbling not only disrupts our unity but also tarnishes our witness to the world. When we complain, we demonstrate a lack of trust in God's will, grace, wisdom, and love. Instead, we are called to have the mind of Christ, considering others more significant than ourselves and serving one another in love.
Paul's command to do everything without grumbling is not just a call to personal holiness but also a call to protect the unity and witness of the church. By living this way, we shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life and proclaiming the gospel. This not only brings joy to our spiritual leaders but also sets a godly example for others to follow.
We concluded with a challenge: to commit to seven days of no complaining or arguing, trusting that God, who works in us, will give us the desire and ability to obey this command. Let's strive to be a church that shines brightly in this dark world, reflecting the love and grace of our Savior.
### Key Takeaways
1. Complaining is a Serious Sin: Complaining is often seen as a minor issue, but Scripture shows that it is a serious sin that demonstrates a lack of trust in God. The Israelites' grumbling led to severe consequences, and we are warned not to follow their example. Complaining disrupts our unity and tarnishes our witness to the world. [46:46]
2. Have the Mind of Christ: We are called to have the mind of Christ, considering others more significant than ourselves and serving one another in love. This mindset helps us to avoid grumbling and disputing, fostering unity within the church and reflecting Christ's love to the world. [53:13]
3. Shine as Lights in the World: By doing all things without grumbling or disputing, we shine as lights in a crooked and twisted generation. Our behavior sets us apart and opens the door for us to proclaim the gospel, showing the world the transformative power of Christ. [56:27]
4. Encourage Spiritual Leaders: Living without grumbling and disputing brings joy to our spiritual leaders, affirming that their labor is not in vain. It also sets a positive example for others in the church, encouraging them to follow Christ wholeheartedly. [01:12:58]
5. Commit to No Complaining: We are challenged to commit to a period of no complaining or arguing, trusting that God will give us the desire and ability to obey this command. This practice helps us to develop a habit of gratitude and joy, reflecting the character of Christ in our daily lives. [01:21:56]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[16:50] - Announcements
[20:25] - Opening Prayer
[45:07] - The Sin of Complaining
[46:46] - Respectable Sins
[49:50] - Biblical Examples of Grumbling
[53:13] - Have the Mind of Christ
[56:27] - Shine as Lights in the World
[01:12:58] - Encourage Spiritual Leaders
[01:14:37] - Be Examples for Others
[01:21:56] - Seven-Day Challenge
[01:25:20] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Philippians 2:14-18 (ESV): "Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise, you also should be glad and rejoice with me."
### Observation Questions
1. What specific command does Paul give in Philippians 2:14, and what are the intended outcomes of following this command? [56:27]
2. How does Paul describe the generation in which the Philippians are living, and what metaphor does he use to describe the believers' role in it? [56:27]
3. According to the sermon, what are some consequences of grumbling and disputing within the church? [49:50]
4. What example from the Old Testament does the pastor use to illustrate the seriousness of grumbling? [49:50]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize the importance of doing all things without grumbling or disputing in Philippians 2:14-18? How does this relate to the unity and witness of the church? [56:27]
2. How does the pastor explain the connection between grumbling and a lack of trust in God? What are the implications of this for our daily lives? [51:29]
3. In what ways does living without grumbling and disputing bring joy to spiritual leaders, according to the sermon? How does this affect the overall health of the church? [01:12:58]
4. How does the pastor challenge the congregation to apply the message of Philippians 2:14-18 in their daily lives? What practical steps does he suggest? [01:21:56]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: When was the last time you found yourself grumbling or disputing? How did it affect your relationships and your witness to others? [49:50]
2. The pastor mentioned that grumbling demonstrates a lack of trust in God's will, grace, wisdom, and love. How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God to help you avoid complaining? [51:29]
3. Think about a specific situation in your church or community where grumbling has caused division. What steps can you take to promote unity and a positive witness in that situation? [56:27]
4. The pastor issued a seven-day challenge to avoid complaining. What strategies can you implement to help you succeed in this challenge? How can you hold yourself accountable? [01:21:56]
5. How can you encourage and support your spiritual leaders by living a life free from grumbling and disputing? What specific actions can you take to show your appreciation for their labor? [01:12:58]
6. Identify one area in your life where you often find yourself complaining. What practical steps can you take to replace grumbling with gratitude and joy? [01:21:56]
7. How can you be an example to others in your church and community by living out the command to do all things without grumbling or disputing? What impact do you hope this will have on those around you? [01:17:24]
Devotional
Day 1: Complaining is a Serious Sin
Complaining is often dismissed as a minor issue, but Scripture reveals that it is a serious sin that reflects a lack of trust in God. The Israelites' grumbling in the wilderness led to severe consequences, demonstrating how seriously God views this behavior. When we complain, we not only disrupt our unity but also tarnish our witness to the world. Complaining shows that we do not trust God's will, grace, wisdom, and love. Instead of grumbling, we are called to trust in God's plan and express gratitude for His provisions.
By recognizing the gravity of complaining, we can begin to address this sin in our lives. It is essential to understand that our words and attitudes have a significant impact on our spiritual health and the health of our community. Let us strive to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness and trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He works all things for our good and His glory. [46:46]
Numbers 14:27-29 (ESV): "How long shall this wicked congregation grumble against me? I have heard the grumblings of the people of Israel, which they grumble against me. Say to them, 'As I live, declares the Lord, what you have said in my hearing I will do to you: your dead bodies shall fall in this wilderness, and of all your number, listed in the census from twenty years old and upward, who have grumbled against me.'"
Reflection: Think about a recent situation where you found yourself complaining. How can you shift your perspective to trust in God's plan and express gratitude instead?
Day 2: Have the Mind of Christ
We are called to have the mind of Christ, which means considering others more significant than ourselves and serving one another in love. This mindset helps us to avoid grumbling and disputing, fostering unity within the church and reflecting Christ's love to the world. When we adopt the attitude of Christ, we prioritize the needs and well-being of others, which naturally reduces the tendency to complain and argue.
Having the mind of Christ involves a radical shift in how we view ourselves and others. It requires humility, selflessness, and a deep commitment to love and serve those around us. By embracing this mindset, we can create a community that is marked by unity, peace, and mutual support. Let us strive to follow Christ's example and cultivate a heart that seeks to serve and uplift others. [53:13]
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Reflection: Identify one person in your life whom you can serve selflessly this week. What specific action can you take to demonstrate Christ's love to them?
Day 3: Shine as Lights in the World
By doing all things without grumbling or disputing, we shine as lights in a crooked and twisted generation. Our behavior sets us apart and opens the door for us to proclaim the gospel, showing the world the transformative power of Christ. When we live in a way that reflects Christ's love and grace, we become beacons of hope and truth in a world that desperately needs it.
Shining as lights in the world involves living with integrity, kindness, and a spirit of gratitude. It means being intentional about our actions and words, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Christ. As we strive to live in this way, we not only honor God but also draw others to Him. Let us commit to being lights in the world, reflecting the love and grace of our Savior. [56:27]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You 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 the same 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."
Reflection: Consider one area of your life where you can be a better witness for Christ. What changes can you make to ensure that your actions and words reflect His love and grace?
Day 4: Encourage Spiritual Leaders
Living without grumbling and disputing brings joy to our spiritual leaders, affirming that their labor is not in vain. It also sets a positive example for others in the church, encouraging them to follow Christ wholeheartedly. When we support and encourage our leaders, we contribute to the overall health and unity of the church.
Encouraging our spiritual leaders involves more than just refraining from complaining; it means actively supporting them through prayer, words of affirmation, and acts of service. By doing so, we help to create an environment where our leaders can thrive and continue to guide us in our spiritual journeys. Let us commit to being a source of encouragement and support for those who lead us in faith. [01:12:58]
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 (ESV): "We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves."
Reflection: Think of a specific way you can encourage your spiritual leaders this week. How can you show them appreciation and support for their labor in the Lord?
Day 5: Commit to No Complaining
We are challenged to commit to a period of no complaining or arguing, trusting that God will give us the desire and ability to obey this command. This practice helps us to develop a habit of gratitude and joy, reflecting the character of Christ in our daily lives. By intentionally refraining from complaining, we can cultivate a more positive and thankful attitude.
Committing to no complaining is not just about avoiding negative speech; it is about transforming our hearts and minds to focus on the goodness of God and the blessings He has given us. As we practice gratitude and trust in God's plan, we will find that our outlook on life becomes more joyful and hopeful. Let us take on this challenge with faith, knowing that God will work in us to develop a spirit of thankfulness. [01:21:56]
Colossians 3:15-17 (ESV): "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Reflection: Commit to a seven-day challenge of no complaining. Each day, write down three things you are grateful for and reflect on how this practice changes your perspective.
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Imagine for a moment churches like ours, groups of Christians gathering regularly, growing in maturity, becoming multiplying disciples of Jesus in unity, having the mind of Christ, no selfish ambition, no pursuit of our own, rather just Christians serving and sacrificing for one another, just like our Savior served and sacrificed for us." [01:08:17] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We too, like the church in Philippi, will find ourselves in unwanted circumstances. Opposition will come from the outside. Disagreements will happen on the inside. And our immediate response will be to complain. Paul's like, that shouldn't be." [01:01:11] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We have been saved through faith in Jesus Christ. We have been reconciled to God. We're on our way to the promised land. And on this short journey, let us not be like the Israelites, grumbling and disputing. Let us do everything without doing that. Let us be glad and rejoice in the Lord." [56:27] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God's working in you. While you're working this out, God's working in you. It's possible for you to have the mind of Jesus. I wanted to remind you of that before we open and unpack verses 14 through 18. That God's working in you because, let's be honest, telling people to stop complaining seems like an impossible task." [54:43] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We Christians can sometimes operate from a disposition of selfishness. Pursue our own selfishness. And leading to disagreements in the church. Jesus desires unity. Paul desired unity. I desire unity in this church." [53:13] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Complaining is a repulsive sin in the sight of God, and it merits His discipline. It's not a subtle sin. It's a serious one, which is why the Apostle Paul told the church in Philippi to do all things without grumbling and disputing, which is the title of this morning's message and the big idea of the text that is located in Philippians chapter 2, verses 14 through 18." [51:29] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We too are working out our salvation with fear and trembling. We too, like the church in Philippi, will find ourselves in unwanted circumstances. Opposition will come from the outside. Disagreements will happen on the inside. And our immediate response will be to complain. Paul's like, that shouldn't be." [01:01:11] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Paul's like, imitate me as I'm imitating Christ. His circumstances weren't great. I don't even know if the guy liked his job as a tent maker when he got to do it. I'm doubting his bank account retirement was very good. He had every reason to complain. I don't think he had much of a retirement. I think he had a mansion being built in heaven." [01:17:24] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Paul loved the church in Philippi. And what he desired was what every spiritual leader desires of the people that God allows them to serve. And that is that when Jesus comes again, he will find a bride living blameless and innocent lives, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation." [01:11:31] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have been saved from the penalty of sin. We've been set free from the power of sin. One day we are going to be set free from the very presence of sin. On this short trip to the promised land, let's shine like lights in this dark world by doing all things without grumbling and disputing." [01:17:24] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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