Philippians 1:1-11

Philippians 1:1-11

This was the most positive of all Paul's letters. While he makes some fantastic theological statements, this letter does not defend against a specific heresy or false teaching. Neither is this letter written to confront a matter of gross immorality, while he does teach and call for unity in one specific conflict. Nor is it written as an expression of orthodox doctrine and practice. 

This letter is written as an expression of the life of a disciple in the joy of being in Christ. Part of our life as a disciple is the life of joy that comes from and builds into the life of other disciples. We sometimes miss that what God wants from us is to live, love, and work in a close-knit community. That relationship ought to produce joy. As we schedule our lives as disciples, we ought to set aside time for worship, Bible study, service, or meetings. But do we block time off for the simple joy and delight of being with God's people? For those of us with more driven personalities or with workaholic tendencies, we might fail to make a point of being with other believers for the joy of that fellowship. It may feel like a waste of time, but Paul didn't seem to think so. As we look at this passage, we see that the Philippians were a source of joy for him and not just a success story he could retell. 

Who are the people that when you think of them, joy comes to your heart? What have you done of late to nurture that relationship? Paul is not trying to form a friendship club or feel-good society. He weaves together the work he is doing into and out of their affection. His ultimate goal is that they grow and mature in the faith and walk with Christ. Paul wants to see them partnering with him in his ministry (v. 7), becoming wiser in their spiritual understanding (v. 10), and ultimately living lives of holiness as a result of their relationship with Christ, resulting in praise and glory to God (v. 11). But these things will not happen apart from connectedness with other believers. In fact, the friction or struggles with other believers is a place where our ministry and understanding of holy living actually have a place to be worked out and refined. The disconnected disciple is not going to grow in certain aspects of their walk. We need each other. 

“Lord, help me to make a point of being in joy with other disciples.  AMEN”