The Attitude of an Effective Church

Struggling with a bad attitude? You’re not alone. In this study from Philippians 2:1–4, we look at the attitude that makes a church not just “good,” but effective. Paul reminds a struggling church—and us—of the gospel benefits we already have in Christ (encouragement in Christ, comfort from His love, fellowship of the Spirit, affection and sympathy) before he calls us to “complete my joy” by being of the same mind and the same love. We unpack what real unity looks like (not uniformity!), why selfish ambition sabotages gospel work, and how humility counts others more significant and looks to their interests. If you’ve been critical, defensive, or discouraged, this passage re-centers your heart on Christ so your life—and our church—can thrive in love, harmony, and shared mission.