A new sermon series for 2023 – The Letter of Paul to the Philippians

Paul wrote his letter around AD 60 to the church in Philippi from Rome, where he was under house arrest awaiting trial before emperor Nero, a wicked ruler with a reputation for cruelty.  But as Paul awaits his fate, he remembers the believers with great fondness and love.

The story of their relationship is recorded by Luke in Acts 16:6-40.  It began when Paul had a vision of a man from Macedonia begging him to ‘come over and help us.’  The chapter focus on three people in Philippi who came to saving faith in Jesus Christ – Lydia the seller of purple goods, a demon-possessed slave girl and a Philippian jailer.  And even though Paul was forced to leave the city after a storm of persecution and illegal imprisonment, the ties between Paul and the Philippians remained very close.  For years this church supported Paul with financial gifts and earnest prayer.

The letter is personal and compelling – full of encouragement and practical teaching on how to live as humble servants of Christ during uncertain and difficult times.  It has been called The Epistle of Joy.  Again, and again the words joy and rejoice can be found.  Even as a prisoner, Paul directs the hearts of his dear friends to joy in Christ – which no one can ever take away!

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” – Philippians 4:4-5