REJOICE! I. TEXTUAL THOUGHTS 1. Philippians 1 - Joy is not dependent upon successful or pleasant circumstances. a. Paul was in chains - :14; Others were preaching with selfish motives - :17. b. He was suffering and struggling - :29-30; Yet he had joy - :4,18. 2. Galatians 5:22 - Joy is a part of the fruit the Spirit produces in a Christian's life. 3. Philippians 2:17-18, 4:4 - We should be a rejoicing people in any situation. II. MAIN THEME - In Philippians alone we should be rejoicing because: 1. Of our fellowship in the Gospel - 1:3-5, 4:1. 2. God is working in the brethren - 1:6, 2:13. 3. Christ is being preached - 1:13-18. 4. I cannot lose - 1:20-24. 5. Of unity in the body - 2:2. 6. God will exalt the humbly obedient servant - 2:3-11. 7. God has blessed others - 2:25-28. 8. God has raised up hard workers - 2:28-30. 9. We are in the Lord - 3:1, 4:4. 10. We do not have to rely on our own ability - 3:2-9. 11. I know Christ - 3:8; and have a righteousness from God - 3:9. 12. I can attain to the resurrection from the dead - 3:11. 13. God listens, guards, and remains with us - 4:6-9. 14. My brethren continue to grow - 4:10. 15. I am not controlled by situations - 4:11-13. 16. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - 4:13. 17. God will supply all my needs - 4:19. III. APPLICATION 1. Don't murmur or argue - Philippians 2:14. 2. Rejoice in the Lord always - 4:4. 3. When you start to lose joy, read Philippians again and review this study. IV. MEMORY VERSE - Philippians 4:4 |