[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Philippians 1:1-2

Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus,
To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. [NASB1995®]

This letter from the apostle Paul, written to the church in Philippi, is very special.

Paul is in prison, but still he rejoices. He rejoices that they are sharing Christ. He rejoices for the concern that the members of the church in Philippi have for him (the initial motivation of writing the letter is to thank them for an offering that they have sent him). He rejoices in his suffering for the sake of the Gospel.

In this letter, Paul is going to show, more than anything, joy. It is a joy that does not come from the circumstances of life, but rather from knowing that you are close to Christ.

Even while imprisoned, Paul trusts that the LORD would soon free him, and he encourages the church in Philippi to continue growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, to continue proclaiming the Gospel, to care for one another, and to seek the unity of the body of Christ.

Let our hearts be strengthened and encouraged through studying this letter, so that we may grow and live conforming to the image of our LORD and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

Scripture quotation taken from the (NASB®) New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Translation By: Emily Stader[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]