Be Thankful

The Pursuit of Joy

Philippians presents a philosophy of joy

Paul demonstrates a joyful mindset

Context of Philippians

Church is founded in Acts 16

Around AD 50

Paul’s Second Missionary Journey

Paul wrote the letter while on house arrest

In Rome awaiting trial

Between 60-62 AD

Future plans stifled

Faces a severe penalty

Dependent on charity

But Paul’s tone is friendly

Philippians 1:1–2 NIV

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul’s joy begins with gratitude

Philippians 1:3–7 NIV

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.

And joy thrives in a loving environment

Philippians 1:9–11 NIV

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

Individually - Thankfulness brings joy

Colossians 3:15–17 NIV

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Collectively - love and truth allows joy

1 Corinthians 13:6 NIV

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

The pursuit of joy starts with thanksgiving and motivated by love and truth