Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fulfil ye my joy - Ye ought to complete my joy, who have suffered so much to bring you into the possession of these blessings, by being like-minded with myself, having the same love to God, his cause, and me, as I have to him, his cause, and you. Being of one accord - Being perfectly agreed in labouring to promote the honor of your Master; and of one mind, being constantly intent upon this great subject; keeping your eye fixed upon it in all you say, do, or intend.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Fulfil--that is, Make full. I have joy in you, complete it by that which is still wanting, namely, unity (Phi 1:9). likeminded--literally, "that ye be of the same mind"; more general than the following "of one mind." having the same love--equally disposed to love and be loved. being of one accord--literally, "with united souls." This pairs with the following clause, thus, "With united souls, being of one mind"; as the former two also pair together, "That ye be likeminded, having the same love."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fulfil ye my joy,.... The Arabic version adds, "by these things"; meaning not his joy in the Lord Jesus Christ, which arose from views of interest his person, blood, and righteousness; which was had by believing in him, by enjoying communion with him, and living in hope of the glory of God; this in a fruit of the Spirit, Gal 5:22, and is called joy in the Holy Ghost; who, as he was the author, must be the finisher of it, and not the Philippians; much less does he mean that fulness of joy in the presence, and at the right hand of God in heaven, which he expected to have; but that which arose from the state, conduct, and mutual respect of the saints to each other; he had much joy in them, on account of the good work being begun, and carrying on in their souls; and because of their steadfastness in the faith, notwithstanding the persecutions they met with; and on account of their continued love to him, and the late fresh instance of it they had given, in sending their minister with a present to him, and who had given him a particular account of their affairs; but his joy was not yet full, there were some things which damped it; as the unbecoming walk and conversation of some, of whom he spoke with grief of heart, and tears in his eyes; and the inclination of others to listen to the false teachers, those of the concision, or circumcision; and the murmurings, disputings, and divisions of others among them, that were contentious and quarrelsome; wherefore to crown his joy, and fill it brimful, he signifies that their unity in affection, judgment, and practice, would do it, for so he explains it as follows: that ye be likeminded, or "equally affected to one another"; that since they were but as one man, were one body, and had but one head, and one Spirit, that quickened and comforted them, and had but one faith and one baptism, they ought to be one in affection, practice, and judgment; this is the general, of which the following are the particulars: having the same love; both for quality, being hearty, sincere, and unfeigned; and for quantity, returning the same that is measured to them; and with respect to objects, loving the same Christ, the same doctrines of Christ, the same ministers of the Gospel, and all the saints, rich and poor, high and low, weak or strong believers, without making any difference, by which means unity is preserved: for if one loves Christ, and another antichrist; one loves one doctrine, and another the opposite to it; one loves a teacher of the law, and another a preacher of the Gospel, one loves one Gospel minister, and one loves another, in distinction from, and opposition to the other; one loves the rich and not the poor, men of great gifts and grace, and neglects the meaner saints; when this is the case, they cannot be said to have the same love, nor can there be harmony, concord, and agreement: being of one accord, or "being alike in soul"; having the same soul, not in substance and number, as some philosophers have asserted, but having the same affection, judgment, and will, as the first Christians are said to be of one heart and of one soul; or "unanimous" in their sentiments about doctrines and ordinances, being all of a piece in their practices; and agreeing in all their counsels, debates, acts, and votes, in their church meetings: of one mind; in the doctrines of grace, in the ordinances of the Gospel; and in the discipline of the church: the means of preserving and increasing such affection, unity, and agreement, are next directed to.
One in Christ
1Therefore if you have any encouragement in Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and compassion,2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Divided Heart
By C.H. Spurgeon17K41:19Spiritual UnityDividedDivided HeartPSA 86:11PRO 4:23HOS 10:2MAT 6:241CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2JAS 1:81JN 1:8C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of a divided heart, emphasizing that such a condition leads to spiritual faultiness both individually and within the church. He warns that a divided heart is a grievous disease that affects the whole person, causing unhappiness, inconsistency, and hypocrisy. Spurgeon illustrates that this division not only hinders personal faith but also weakens the church's collective strength against evil. He calls for unity of heart in serving God, urging listeners to examine their own hearts and seek true devotion. Ultimately, he offers hope for those with broken hearts, inviting them to trust in Christ for healing and salvation.
Are You Prepared (Compilation)
By Compilations2.4K04:50CompilationMAT 6:33ACT 2:1ACT 2:42ACT 4:31ROM 12:1PHP 2:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for revival in America and the church's role in bringing about this revival. He challenges the audience to be willing to sacrifice their time and energy to seek God's glory. The speaker suggests that the key to revival lies in re-establishing fellowship and unity among believers, similar to the class meetings led by John Wesley. He believes that when believers come together with one accord and a common passion to seek Christ, the glory of God will be revealed and hearts will be transformed.
05 Freedom From Selfishness & Pride
By Zac Poonen2.2K1:04:15PHP 2:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of having the mind of Christ, focusing on serving others and considering them as more important than oneself. It highlights the need to eradicate selfishness and pride, tracing all sin back to these roots. The speaker challenges the audience to live a life free from selfishness and pride, mirroring the servant-hearted attitude of Jesus towards others.
The Moravian Revival
By Andrew Davies1.6K47:41Moravian RevivalMAT 16:28MRK 9:1LUK 9:27ROM 12:10EPH 4:32PHP 2:21TH 5:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the joy and happiness that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit. He references a hymn by Bishop Gambold that expresses the deep love and connection between Jesus and his followers. The preacher also mentions Jesus' promise that some of his disciples would see him coming in his kingdom before they taste death. He emphasizes the importance of preaching about Christ and his sacrifice to bring blessings to the heathen. The sermon includes stories about a countess who found true joy in the Savior and a preacher who found solace in repeating verses from Bishop Gambold's hymn.
Joy
By George Verwer1.2K38:28JoyPSA 16:11PSA 51:12HAB 3:17MAT 6:33PHP 2:2PHP 2:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord always, even in difficult circumstances. He acknowledges that life can be challenging and filled with irritations, but encourages listeners to find joy in their hearts and express it wisely. The speaker shares a personal story of a team member who was angry with their leader for a mistake that almost cost their lives, but the leader responded with praise to the Lord, diffusing the situation. The sermon concludes with the reminder that when we reach the end of ourselves and our own strength, that is when God wants to meet us.
The Nature of Man - Trichotomy Stated and Refuted Part 1
By John Murray1.1K51:07Nature Of ManPHP 1:27PHP 2:2PHP 2:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the different aspects of the human personality, specifically the soul and the spirit. They emphasize the importance of wholehearted devotion in serving God and how it can be expressed through the soul or the spirit. The speaker also explores the contrast between the heart and the nomadic heart, and how this distinction is used by socialists to argue for the separation of soul and human. They reference several Bible verses, including Philippians 1:27 and 2:2, to support their points. Overall, the sermon delves into the nature of godly devotion and the role of the soul and spirit in expressing it.
A Beautiful Mind (High Quality)
By Edgar Reich94643:36Love in CommunityHumilityPHP 2:2Edgar Reich emphasizes the significance of cultivating a beautiful mind through humility and love, drawing from Philippians 2:2-5. He shares personal experiences of receiving and giving love within the church community, illustrating how esteeming others better than oneself leads to unity and revival. Reich reflects on the challenges of embodying Christ's humility and the transformative power of love in relationships, encouraging the congregation to practice esteeming one another. He concludes by inviting those unfamiliar with Christ to embrace His love and for believers to actively live out their faith in community.
(Youth Bible School 2007) Christ Is the Believer's Mind
By John D. Martin94158:33ROM 12:2EPH 4:3PHP 1:27PHP 2:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of unity among believers and the evidence of spiritual transformation. He emphasizes that the focus should be on Christ rather than theology. The speaker references Ephesians chapter 4, which lists seven things that should promote unity among believers, such as one baptism, one faith, and one God and Father over all. Despite these factors, the speaker questions why believers struggle to come together and encourages listeners to seek deeper intimacy with God.
Life at Its Best 1 Emotional and Mental Survival
By George Verwer85747:14SurvivalPHP 2:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses three keys to mental and emotional survival. The first key is accepting oneself, which is important for personal growth and self-acceptance. The second key is the power of praise, emphasizing the importance of praising the Lord in all situations. The speaker also mentions the neglected aspect of weeping in the Christian life. The third key is the need to get involved with other people and avoid excessive introspection. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Philippians 2:2, to support these points.
05 - Unity for the Mission of the Church
By Ben Torrey56008:31Unity1CO 11:12PHP 2:2In this sermon, Ben Torrey discusses the importance of unity in South Korea. He emphasizes the divisions in society, such as wealth inequality and generational gaps, and the need for families to overcome crisis. Torrey references biblical passages, particularly those written by Paul, that stress the importance of unity among believers. He prays for God to send the Holy Spirit to convict hearts and bring about unity, so that the world may see a united church that reflects God's love. Torrey also reflects on the progress that South Korea has made since the Korean War, highlighting the resilience and capability of the Korean people.
Together for the Gospel by James Jennings
By James Malachi Jennings50756:50ROM 15:5EPH 4:1PHP 2:2PHP 4:2This sermon focuses on the importance of unity and love among believers, emphasizing the need to resolve conflicts and maintain harmony for the advancement of the Gospel. Paul urges the church to have the mind of Christ, to be humble, and to prioritize unity over personal convictions. The message highlights the impact of disunity on the effectiveness of sharing the Gospel and encourages believers to strive side by side for the faith of the Gospel.
Ict Ministry Pt 2 29.7.85
By George Verwer49334:06MissionsPHP 2:2In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance and impact of the AV department in the ministry of world evangelism. The AV department plays a crucial role in coordinating and disseminating information to various teams around the world through videos and films. They also handle tasks such as duplicating video cassettes and creating teaching tapes. The speaker emphasizes the need for support and involvement from the audience in order to continue reaching millions of people with the message of the Gospel.
A Desperate Plea for Unity
By Shane Idleman1348:38Unity in the ChurchOvercoming DivisionPRO 6:16MAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 3:8Shane Idleman passionately addresses the urgent need for unity within the church, drawing from the teachings of 1 Corinthians. He emphasizes that believers, while called to be saints, often struggle with sin and disunity, which can hinder the work of God. Idleman warns against the divisive nature of arguments and debates over non-essential issues, urging the congregation to focus on the essentials of faith and to fight for unity. He highlights that true unity is not about uniformity in opinion but about being united in purpose and love for Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to examine our hearts and attitudes, especially regarding how we treat one another within the body of Christ.
Of One Heart and Soul
By J. Frank Norris1ISA 6:8MAL 3:10MRK 16:15LUK 24:48ACT 4:32ROM 15:51CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14J. Frank Norris preaches about the unity and power of believers in the early church, emphasizing the importance of being of one heart and one soul in faith, testimony, and giving. He urges the congregation to focus on witnessing for Jesus Christ with holy boldness, trusting in God's presence and power to guide and protect them. Norris highlights the simplicity of the New Testament method of spreading the Gospel through believers coming together in unity, giving their all to God, and sharing the message of salvation with everyone they encounter.
Letter - to Members of the Presbytery of Troy
By Charles Finney1Unity in the ChurchAgreement in FaithAMO 3:3MAT 18:191CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 2:2Charles Finney addresses the members of the Presbytery of Troy, emphasizing the necessity of unity among believers as expressed in the scripture, 'Can two walk together except they be agreed?' He highlights that agreement in faith and purpose is essential for advancing the interests of the Redeemer's kingdom. Finney expresses his hope that the publication of his sermon will inspire and promote this unity among the church members. He acknowledges the spontaneous nature of his sermon and submits it for their consideration, praying for God's blessing on their efforts.
On Christian Unity
By Thomas Reade0PSA 133:1JHN 13:35JHN 17:11ROM 15:51CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141JN 1:7Thomas Reade preaches on the importance of Christian unity, emphasizing the oneness between Christ and His people as a source of strength and beauty for the church. He highlights the teachings of Jesus and Paul on unity, urging believers to be of one mind and judgment, united in spirit and purpose. Reade stresses that unity is essential for the church's witness to the world and its spiritual growth, contrasting it with the disfigurement caused by strife and divisions.
The Church Grieves the Spirit
By D.L. Moody0Grieving the Holy SpiritUnity in the ChurchPSA 133:1MAT 12:25JHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 3:8D.L. Moody emphasizes the detrimental effects of division within the Church, asserting that such schisms and unsound doctrines grieve the Spirit of God. He observes that the Holy Spirit cannot work effectively in a divided congregation and calls for immediate efforts towards unity among believers. Moody suggests that if a minister cannot foster unity, it may be time for them to step aside, as a divided church cannot bear spiritual fruit. He urges the Church to prioritize reconciliation and harmony to allow the Spirit to move freely among them.
Lecture Xvi. - the Necessity and Effect of Union.
By Charles Finney0RevivalUnity in PrayerPSA 133:1MAT 18:19ACT 1:14ROM 15:51CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14JAS 5:161JN 5:14Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of unity in prayer and effort among believers, illustrating that true agreement is essential for effective prayer. He explains that agreement must encompass shared desires, motives, and faith, as well as a collective understanding of the importance of revivals. Finney warns against selfish motives in prayer and stresses that genuine unity can lead to powerful outcomes in the church and the salvation of souls. He calls for churches to remove obstacles to revival and to work together harmoniously, as the promise of God is contingent upon their unity. Ultimately, he urges believers to recognize their responsibility in prayer and action to fulfill God's promise.
The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity
By C.H. Spurgeon0Fellowship among BelieversUnity in the ChurchJHN 13:34ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 3:28EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14HEB 10:241PE 3:81JN 1:7C.H. Spurgeon passionately urges the Church of Christ to embrace unity as they gather to commemorate the Lord's Supper, emphasizing that true fellowship must exist among believers. He reflects on the Apostle Paul's heartfelt desire for the Roman Christians, encouraging them to care for one another and recognize their shared identity as 'beloved of God' and 'called to be saints.' Spurgeon highlights the importance of mutual love and support within the church, reminding the congregation that their bond in Christ transcends all differences. He calls for a genuine expression of unity, rooted in the grace and peace that comes from God, as they partake in the sacred ordinance together.
Letters on Revival--No. 19.*
By Charles Finney0Overcoming SectarianismUnity in the ChurchJHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14JAS 3:161PE 3:81JN 4:20Charles Finney addresses the detrimental effects of growing sectarianism within the church, emphasizing that this division hinders the spirit of revival. He warns that ministers and Christians often fail to recognize their own sectarian attitudes, which lead to strife and prejudice rather than unity and love. Finney argues that true revival cannot flourish amidst such discord and urges the church to prioritize brotherly love and the conversion of souls over sectarian disputes. He calls for a self-examination among ministers and believers to ensure they are not contributing to this decline in spiritual fervor. Ultimately, he stresses the need for open-mindedness and a commitment to truth to restore the church's power and communion with God.
On Schism
By John Wesley0The Dangers of DivisionUnity in the ChurchMAT 5:9ROM 12:101CO 1:101CO 11:181CO 12:25EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14HEB 12:141JN 4:7John Wesley addresses the issue of schism within the Church, emphasizing that true schism is not merely a separation from a church but rather divisions that occur within a church community. He critiques the numerous debates surrounding schism, noting that they often lack a clear definition and fail to produce any real understanding or resolution. Wesley highlights the importance of unity in the body of Christ, warning against the dangers of division and the negative consequences that arise from a lack of love and care for one another. He urges believers to avoid unnecessary separations and to strive for peace and unity, as these are essential to the health of the Church and its witness to the world.
First Gave Their Own Selves to the Lord
By A.B. Simpson0Christian ServiceLoyalty to GodMAT 5:16ROM 12:102CO 8:5GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:231TH 5:11HEB 10:241PE 4:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of loyalty to both God and the work of ministry for successful Christian service. He notes that a deep relationship with the Lord fosters better relationships with others, contrasting mature Christians with superficial ones who may struggle with eccentricity. Simpson highlights the example of the Corinthians, who first dedicated themselves to the Lord, making it easier for them to support His apostle. He encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of soundness and a heart for service, reminding them of the joy and rewards that come from helping others through prayer, love, and song.
In Which Seed Shine
By George Fox0Unity in ChristThe Seed of GodPSA 133:1MAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 14:192CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 4:8George Fox emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, urging them to avoid worldly wisdom that creates division. He advocates for innocence, truth, and simplicity as the foundation for genuine unity, where love prevails over evil thoughts. Fox expresses his grief over anything that hinders this unity and encourages friends to focus on the Seed of God within themselves, which has the power to heal and bring peace. He calls for believers to keep their earthly weaknesses under control and to elevate the Seed of God above all enmity, as it is the source of true unity and eternal good.
Considerations on the Nature & Unity of the Church of Christ
By John Nelson Darby0Unity in the ChurchSpiritual CommunionISA 43:10MAL 3:16LUK 12:36JHN 11:52JHN 17:21ROM 12:11CO 11:26GAL 3:28EPH 4:3PHP 2:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of the unity of the Church of Christ, arguing that true communion among believers transcends denominational differences and is rooted in the Spirit of God. He points out that the current state of division among professing Christians hinders the manifestation of the Church's true nature and purpose, which is to reflect the glory of Christ. Darby calls for believers to focus on their common identity in Christ and to remove barriers that prevent unity, urging them to witness to the world through their love and shared faith. He stresses that the unity of the Church is not about formal affiliations but about spiritual oneness in Christ, which is essential for the Church to fulfill its mission. Ultimately, he challenges believers to seek the glory of the Lord and to act in accordance with His will to achieve true unity.
Letter: 6e 16 Bro. & Brethren, Ireland, Rec'd April 30th, 1833
By John Nelson Darby0Unity in ChristSpiritual VigilanceROM 13:111CO 1:102CO 5:17GAL 5:13EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 2:10HEB 10:24JAS 1:271JN 4:7John Nelson Darby expresses his deep affection for the church in Ireland, reflecting on the importance of walking in love and unity among believers. He shares his experiences during a recent journey, including the death of a fellow passenger, which serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the need for spiritual vigilance. Darby emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a close relationship with God to ensure peace and guidance in their service. He warns against sectarianism and encourages the church to remain open and welcoming to all Christians. His heartfelt prayer is for the church to be kept from the influences of evil and to grow in the fullness of Christ's love.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fulfil ye my joy - Ye ought to complete my joy, who have suffered so much to bring you into the possession of these blessings, by being like-minded with myself, having the same love to God, his cause, and me, as I have to him, his cause, and you. Being of one accord - Being perfectly agreed in labouring to promote the honor of your Master; and of one mind, being constantly intent upon this great subject; keeping your eye fixed upon it in all you say, do, or intend.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Fulfil--that is, Make full. I have joy in you, complete it by that which is still wanting, namely, unity (Phi 1:9). likeminded--literally, "that ye be of the same mind"; more general than the following "of one mind." having the same love--equally disposed to love and be loved. being of one accord--literally, "with united souls." This pairs with the following clause, thus, "With united souls, being of one mind"; as the former two also pair together, "That ye be likeminded, having the same love."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fulfil ye my joy,.... The Arabic version adds, "by these things"; meaning not his joy in the Lord Jesus Christ, which arose from views of interest his person, blood, and righteousness; which was had by believing in him, by enjoying communion with him, and living in hope of the glory of God; this in a fruit of the Spirit, Gal 5:22, and is called joy in the Holy Ghost; who, as he was the author, must be the finisher of it, and not the Philippians; much less does he mean that fulness of joy in the presence, and at the right hand of God in heaven, which he expected to have; but that which arose from the state, conduct, and mutual respect of the saints to each other; he had much joy in them, on account of the good work being begun, and carrying on in their souls; and because of their steadfastness in the faith, notwithstanding the persecutions they met with; and on account of their continued love to him, and the late fresh instance of it they had given, in sending their minister with a present to him, and who had given him a particular account of their affairs; but his joy was not yet full, there were some things which damped it; as the unbecoming walk and conversation of some, of whom he spoke with grief of heart, and tears in his eyes; and the inclination of others to listen to the false teachers, those of the concision, or circumcision; and the murmurings, disputings, and divisions of others among them, that were contentious and quarrelsome; wherefore to crown his joy, and fill it brimful, he signifies that their unity in affection, judgment, and practice, would do it, for so he explains it as follows: that ye be likeminded, or "equally affected to one another"; that since they were but as one man, were one body, and had but one head, and one Spirit, that quickened and comforted them, and had but one faith and one baptism, they ought to be one in affection, practice, and judgment; this is the general, of which the following are the particulars: having the same love; both for quality, being hearty, sincere, and unfeigned; and for quantity, returning the same that is measured to them; and with respect to objects, loving the same Christ, the same doctrines of Christ, the same ministers of the Gospel, and all the saints, rich and poor, high and low, weak or strong believers, without making any difference, by which means unity is preserved: for if one loves Christ, and another antichrist; one loves one doctrine, and another the opposite to it; one loves a teacher of the law, and another a preacher of the Gospel, one loves one Gospel minister, and one loves another, in distinction from, and opposition to the other; one loves the rich and not the poor, men of great gifts and grace, and neglects the meaner saints; when this is the case, they cannot be said to have the same love, nor can there be harmony, concord, and agreement: being of one accord, or "being alike in soul"; having the same soul, not in substance and number, as some philosophers have asserted, but having the same affection, judgment, and will, as the first Christians are said to be of one heart and of one soul; or "unanimous" in their sentiments about doctrines and ordinances, being all of a piece in their practices; and agreeing in all their counsels, debates, acts, and votes, in their church meetings: of one mind; in the doctrines of grace, in the ordinances of the Gospel; and in the discipline of the church: the means of preserving and increasing such affection, unity, and agreement, are next directed to.