 Scripture
Study for the week of July 17th, 2006
Paul’s fellowship with the saints at Philippi brought him much joy. “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now” (Phil 1:4-6). Related in Christ, believers in common experience have the joy of community par excellence. More . . .
Paul’s joy of community with the Philippians was founded in knowledge that the Lord had begun a work in all of them that He would perform until the day of Jesus Christ (1:6). Oh how they must have rejoiced together in the love of God towards poor depraved unworthy sinners. The apostle did not rejoice in personal efforts or accomplishments, he joyed in the graces and comforts, gifts and usefulness of the Philippians. Together they had suffered for Christ in defending, promoting, and confirming the gospel of Christ (1:7-8). These are the elements of supreme joy in Christian community. May such community be the bond of congregations in our day.
|
