Thursday, April 3, 2008

partners in the gospel

Philippians 1:1-9

This written from Paul and Timothy to the church at Philippi. Philippi is where Paul and Silas were thrown in jail for casting a demon out of a fortune teller. The beginning of the Philippian church was the prison warden and his household. At this time, Paul is back in jail.
Paul is thankful for the Philippians because of their partnership in the gospel. In fact, he says that he prays with joy whenever he thinks of them. I wonder who I am filling with joy whenever they think of me? Are there people who are compelled by God's grace in their lives to share the good news message of Jesus who are grateful for they way that I partner with them and help them see the message of Jesus shared with people who need to hear it?
The Philippian church obviously wasn't perfect (Paul says that the good work was just being started in them but God would bring it to perfection - v. 6) but they were such an important part of Paul's life that he longs for them with the affection of Christ.
I want to have that affect on the Paul's of this world - not to feel good about myself but because I want to support those who are sharing the good news message of Jesus.

1 comment:

Jeff Beer said...

Well Jeremy, I can honestly say that I am excited and blessed by the way you have partnered with me in the spreading of the gospel. It is great to have someone who is passionate about the word as a friend, it helps me get more passionate about the word, and I am sure that I am only one of many that your life has had a huge impact on. Keep sharing the word, and keep encouraging others to do the same. May God continue to give you the widsom and the courage to proclaim his message fearlessly. May you be filled with the joy that comes from the Lord. May you also see the fruits of your labor and glorify God because of these things, Amen.