Joyful Completion X

Read Phil. 4:1-9

Paul spoke warmly to the church in Philippi.

This church was far from perfect

Church shopping - You will never find the perfect church.

Paul had seen true life-change in the people.

“my joy and crown” (stephano)

Festive garland worn as a sign of gladness.

Same word used in Heb 13:17. The triumph of grace will be seen in the perseverance of the saints. This brought inexpressible joy to their spiritual mentors.

Stand firm in these days in the union of the Lord.

Fears and attacks

false doctrines

“Stay Calm and Get Along.”

Paul mentions Euodia and Syntyche. Women in the church fellowship (maybe deaconesses) who had an argument.

co-workers in the gospel.

Share in mind, reconciliations, and mutual love.

Set the good of the church above personal interests.

Cowboys of the 90’s broke up because Jerry Jones could not get along with Jimmy Johnson.

Seeking reconciliations within the church body is bigger than you.

Western culture has poisoned people in making their own issues bigger than the good of others.

*Jesus is coming back soon. Let us put aside our own arguments and focus on the kingdom of God.

“Focus on Prayer, Choose Joy and Gratitude.”

The main focus of Paul’s epistle is the maintaining of joy.

This is for the whole church to follow. This assurance is to ring out. The Lord was the governing factor of church in the church.

Like Paul, there is holy joy to be had even when the days are difficult.

Show gentleness to all.

“Prayer” and “Supplication” - General and Special prayers.

Believers were to acknowledge their dependence on God and His provision.

The church had become daunted by their foes and enemies.

Thanksgiving is important to remember.

The king will provide the peace that we need. Peace of God follows directly by peace with God.

“passes all power of comprehension”

Like a guard, patrols before the heart.

Peace - (cirene) well being, prosperity, freedom from anxiety, safety from hard, and deliverance from enemies.

The pursuit of peace is a billion $ industry.

Depression and anxiety is a real struggle you and I face on a daily basis.

What is the cure?

On a daily basis, we pray and ask the Lord to protect us from what worries us.

There is a difference between concern and worry.

When you can’t control a circumstance, you are not the cure.

Call on God.