2. THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER (PHIL 1: 3-11)

2. THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER (PHIL 1: 3-11):

Paul writes to the Philippians that he thanks God every time he remembers them, always praying joyfully in every one of his prayers for all of them because of their partnership in the gospel from the first day until then. There were some unique qualities that the Philippian church had in them, and Paul continuously conveys his gratitude to God whenever he remembers them, and prays for them happily every time for all of them, as they had eagerly received the gospel that was proclaimed to them and started to live a God pleasing life.

Paul writes that he is sure that he who began a good work in them will bring it to completion on the day of Jesus Christ. And he states that it is right for him to feel that way about them all, because he holds them in his heart, for they are all partakers with him of grace, both in his imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is his witness, how he yearns for them all with the affection of Christ Jesus. Paul has the assurance by faith in the Philippians that those who had started to live a God pleasing life among them will steadfastly continue it till the return of the Lord as a righteous judge over all. Paul reasons why he has faith in them and says that they were all accepted and being part of God’s sovereign redemption, and also they were standing for the truth and the Gospel of Jesus Christ amidst all the sufferings. Paul testifies personally that God knew his heart and mind, that he is longing for them all with the love and concern of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Paul then writes that it is his prayer that their love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that they may approve what is excellent, and so 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. Paul continues to pray for a greater cause, for the Philippians to uphold and show the lavishing love without limits using sound discernment and analysis of the facts, for really knowing what their level is, and it would surely prepare them for the return of the Lord by following what is right, through which God will be glorified.

Stimulations for Self-Reflection:

1.      What does Paul do when he remembers Philippians? Why?

2.      How does Paul thank God for Philippians?

3.      What does ‘partnership in the gospel from the first day’ mean?

4.      How are partakers with Paul?

5.      For what is God the witness to Paul?

6.      For what does Paul pray for the Philippians? Why?

7.      What does Paul mean by saying, ‘you may approve what is excellent’?

8.      What does Paul mean by saying, ‘filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ’?

9.      How can we remember and be thankful for the people who served God along with us?

10.  How can we be pure and blameless on the day of Christ?

How can we be filled with the fruit of righteousness? 

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