Philippians: A Guide to Joy

Have you written or received an affectionate thank-you letter lately? We are about to read one—Paul's letter to the church in Philippi. A man named Epaphroditus, on behalf of the church, brought a gift to Paul, and Paul writes back to thank them for their support and partnership. He opens the letter (1:3), "I thank my God in all remembrance of you..." He deeply loves this church, but Philippians is much more than a thank-you letter. Paul also uses this occasion to encourage believers to persevere together with joy in spite of opposition. In fact, he exhorts the Christians to advance the gospel bravely with joy, as fellow servants of the true King, in the face of terrifying opponents. It is going to be an exciting study.