Open:
The Philippian church was not perfect as we will see later in this letter. But in contrast to most of the other churches with which Paul was associated, they had no deep moral or spiritual problems. And as the Apostle Paul thought about this beloved congregation his joy overflowed. In verses 3-8 Paul touches on five specific elements of his Spirit-created joy as it related to the Philippian believers.
I. The Joy of Recollection (verse 3).
"I thank my God every time I remember you."
1. This element of joy has to do with remembering people and events from the past that brought joy to his mind and heart.
2. Joyful remembrance is selective. This is choosing to remember the goodness, kindness and successes of others rather than their faults and failures.
II. The Joy of Intercession (verse 4).
"constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you"
1. Praying for others produces joy in the heart of the intercessor.
2. True intercession is more than making a request on behalf of someone. It is entering into the experience of the other.
III. The Joy of Participation (verse 5).
"Because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now."
1. The word used here for "sharing" is koinonia.
2. True fellowship comes from a shared relationship (in Christ) and a shared purpose (in the gospel).
IV. The Joy of Anticipation (verse 6).
"I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ."
1. Nothing can encourage a Christian as much as the knowledge that, despite life's uncertainties and difficulties, and no matter how many spiritual defeats there may be along the way, he/she will eventually be made complete in Christ.
2. God will have no unfinished works.
V. The Joy of Affection (verses 7 & 8).
In these verses Paul's rejoicing reaches a crescendo.
1. There can be no greater or more exhilarating joy than that produced by deep, abiding love for others.
2. Genuine love originates in the mind, not in the heart. (1 Thessalonians 4:9)
Close:
Paul gives five specific elements of his Spirit-created joy in reference to the Phillipians believers. These same elements will produce joy in each of us if we put them into practice:
- Remember/focus on the positive concerning others.
- Intercede for others/ share in their suffering and need.
- Get involved personally in extending the gospel of Christ to those who haven't heard.
- Stay encouraged by the fact that God leaves no believer's life unfinished.
- Choose to love others without discrimination.
(Dr. Dane Fowlkes, pastor)
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