Philippians #1: "Joy in Jesus"

Audience

  • Mostly Roman citizens, but a lot of Jews also

Occasion

  • In some ways, it is a “thank you” letter from a missionary (Paul) to a supporting church (as you saw in the video)
  • It is also perhaps the most encouraging letter Paul ever wrote to any one church

Theme

  • The Joy of the Lord
    • Joy/Rejoice used more often in Philippians than any other NT book, by far.
    • The CLEAR reason for joy: Jesus Christ
      • Suffering is also a theme in this letter - and “joy in suffering” is both modeled and encouraged.

And so our title for this new series:

  • Philippians: Joy in Jesus
  • And that JOY produces a faith that is authentic and contagious.