Sermon series resource page. August 3-October 5, 2025.
In Paul’s warmest letter, he stresses that disciples of Jesus must have the mind of Christ. It is for our good, for the world’s good, and for God’s glory. Anything less than a mind for good is loss, not gain.
Paul Goes to Macedonia
Acts 16:1-40 outlines the journey of Paul (along with Silas and Timothy) to Macedonia.
Paul’s Second Missionary Journey
Slideshow
Below are some images of Philippi and the surrounding area. Click or swipe to see more.
Zygaktis River. Possible location of Lydia’s baptism (and family). Acts 16:13-15. 
Zygaktis River. Possible location of Lydia’s baptism (and family). Acts 16:13-15. 
The Via Egnatia, Neapolis (modern Kavalla) in the distance. A primary road through Macedonia used by the Apostle Paul. Acts 16:11-12. 
Marker on the Via Egnatia. A primary road through Macedonia used by the Apostle Paul. 
Agora (city center) and pagan temple of Philippi. View from city theater. 
Via Egnatia passing through the town of Philippi. Theater and jail to the left, city center (agora) to the right. Acts 16:16-24. 
Roman theater in Philippi. 
Roman theater in Philippi. 
Possible (not probable) jail where Paul and Silas were held in Philippi. Acts 16:25-40. 
Possible (not probable) jail where Paul and Silas were held in Philippi. Acts 16:25-40.
The Hymn: Philippians 2:1-11
There are some important theological claims in the Christ hymn of Philippians 2:1-11. A few are listed below, along with some (just some) Scriptures that support these claims:
- Jesus is God
- Jesus is God in human form
- Jesus emptied himself to save humans
- Jesus destroyed sin’s effect on humans by dying in our place
- Each person must choose to receive the salvation Jesus offers
Jesus’ Claims About Himself
- Matthew 21:13. Jesus called the Temple “my house” when quoting the OT.
- Mark 1:22. Jesus teaches with authority (and is recognized as such).
- John 10:3-4, 10. Claims to be the Shepherd, not just the hired hand.
- John 10:29-30. Claims to be one with the Father.
- Matthew 12:8. Claims to be Lord of the Sabbath.
- Matthew 9:1ff. Forgives sins when healing (note: he also heals).
- Matthew 10:1. Jesus gives authority to the disciples to cast out demons.
- Mark 1:24; Matthew 8:28-34. Jesus is recognized as divine by demons.
- Matthew 28:9. Is worshiped by the disciples (and allows it to continue).
New Testament Claims About Jesus
- Matthew 1:23. Jesus called “God with us.”
- John 1:1. The word was God.
- John 1:29. The lamb who takes away the sins of the world.
- Colossians 1:15ff. The Son is the fullness of God.
- 1 Peter 2:22. He committed no sin.
- Philippians 2:5-11. He emptied himself of the nature of God to be human.
Implications of the Above Truths
- 2 Corinthians 5:21. He became sin to rid us of our sin.
- Acts 4:12. You can try to find salvation in other places, it won’t work.
- Titus 3:5. Mercy is active in Jesus, cleansing and renewing us.
- Ephesians 4:13. Maturity in the knowledge of the Son of God.
Videos | Philippi and the Philippians
Watch or Listen to the Series
Playlist for Philippians: A Mind for Good
Below is a Spotify link to the first message of the series. You can subscribe to the Spotify or Apple Podcast feed here to listen to audio of the most current sermons from First Covenant Lincoln.