Principles Of The Prison Pattern

In our last musing we began to look at Philippians 2:1-4. I am calling chapter 2 the pattern of the prison. I have found that Christ is the pattern that governs our reaction to unwelcome situations. In verse one I find the principles of the pattern. In the short introduction verse of chapter 2 Paul lays down 4 principles of Christ likeness. The first is the consolation in Christ. The word consolation is an action done to someone that urges a similar action from them. The word literally means to be addicted to helping people. The second principle is the comfort of love. This is the driving force that produces the consolation. This love is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost. The third is the fellowship of the Spirit. The word fellowship is a term of intimacy with another. The Spirit always promotes Christ. So the intimacy would be with Christ. The fourth is bowels of mercy. Mercy is withholding from one what they deserve. This mercy is coming from deep within. These principles when practise as a part of the pattern of our life will turn our prison into a palace of praise.