Keys of Truth: Philippians (Chapter 1)

Chapter summary
Paul is under house arrest in Rome when he writes this letter to the Philippians. After a brief greeting (1:1-2), Paul expresses the joy he finds in thinking of the Philippians and all they mutually share in Christ (vv. 3-8). His prayer is that their lives will overflow with love and righteousness (vv. 9-11). Apparently the Philippians viewed Paul's imprisonment as a setback to the Gospel. Paul now shares his own evaluation: his chains have in fact served to advance the Gospel by stimulating many others to greater boldness (vv. 12-19). Paul has no personal anxiety about dying and in fact is convinced he will be released (vv. 20-26). But whatever happens, he urges the Philippians to always behave in a "manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ" (vv. 27-30).

1) Grace is God’s kindness and power made available to the believer. Peace is the inner security experienced by those who maintain confidence in the Lord; peace rooted in the truth that Jesus makes peace between sinners and God. Through Jesus we no longer fear, but rejoice in God’s love and forgiveness.

2) Partnership in the gospel refers to the Philippians’ continued prayer and financial support given to Paul. Also, they themselves were witness of the power of the gospel preached by Paul.

3) God does a wonderful work of transformation when He saves us. Paul has no concern that God who has begun the work will desert them. God is totally committed to you and me. He will continue His transforming work until Jesus comes.

4) Paul prays that the church would have a understanding love; love expressed in pure and blameless ways, producing individuals and a church were righteousness is witnessed.
5) We must emulate Paul’s attitude; even if someone’s motive for preaching or doing good is wrong. Let us rejoice that the gospel is being preached and good is being done. God will judge the motives of people.

6) By Paul’s example, we must make living for God (Christ) the central and driving purpose of our lives. After such a life, death can only mean gain, because a rich reward awaits those of us that love Him.

7) The Christian is to fulfill all his or her obligations as a member of a community of those who have responded to the Gospel. And the key responsibility is to stand firm in one spirit. To be worthy of the Gospel we must function harmoniously within a local community of faith.

8) The Christian's refusal to be intimidated by external enemies was evidence that the salvation believers experienced was real—and that their enemies were doomed. Persistence is a compelling witness to the Gospel's trustworthiness.