Conversations Concerning Us

  Introduction             The focus of this discourse is the practical application of a hymn presented by Paul in the book of Philippians. Paul inserted an old church hymn (or liturgical device) into his letter to the Philippian church. The goal is to seek guidance that is applicable in modern days. It is clear from the context that Paul is highlighting Christ as the centerpiece. Christ is the example each Christian should follow (v. 5). However, what is the example Christians are to follow? What is the attitude that we are to adopt? These are the questions that will be answered below. The intention is to bring to the surface what Christlikeness is and what Christians should expect from their personal walk with the Lord. Hopefully what follows is something that is Christ-centered and reflective of the character of our Lord. What is the Mind of Christ?             Before diving into the meat of this discourse, some basic ground rules must be established. First, the goal is to pro

  Introduction             In this discourse, the goal is to attempt a survey of Philippians, specifically the "hymn" embedded in the text. This portion of Scripture could be an early hymn or some type of liturgical device that was composed early in the church's birth. Some basic groundwork will be covered, such as attempting to establish authorship and dating of Philippians. These attempts will try to gain an understanding of where this insertion, made by Paul, has come from and if it is possible to know much about it. If certain aspects of this text can be confirmed (or at least reasonably known) then it is likely the modern person is looking at early creedal information about the nature and person of Jesus Christ. It is for this purpose that this hymn will be analyzed both historically and theologically. Suppose more evidence for the veracity of Christ can be established. In that case, it can be holstered in the apologetic belt for later use and hopefully point peopl