Pastor’s Notes
What we see in Paul in the book of Philippians is a man who counts his struggle as not just joy, but opportunity. Paul sees his chains in prison not as suffering but actually an opportunity to reach those who are in need. What a foreign and alien type mindset this is! Just imagine someone being excited that they have cancer because they know that their diagnosis will bring them to many doctors and hospital staff that need the gospel. In Paul we see such a faithful example of living for the chance to further the good news.
In this week’s text, Paul encourages the people of Philippi and you and I today to join him in living as citizens of Heaven. “What can flesh do to us.” Paul challenges his beloved friends and church family with a counter-citizenship whose capital and seat of power are not earthly, but heavenly. That the king is Christ, not Nero! To remember that we are “Strangers in the World“.
In prison, Paul tells us “not to be frightened in anything by our opponents.” He tells us to keep our mind and heart clear, know that God is in control. Don’t be intimidated. We are citizens of Heaven and whatever hardship comes our way is only opportunity to further the gospel
Scripture to go along with the message
Read Acts 16:22 for a story that shows us an early encounter with Paul and the officials of Rome.
Highlight in your Bibles
Highlight verse 27 & 29 in this week’s text.
Questions to Consider
1.) Where do you see your home? Where are you a citizen of?
2.) Do you see hardships as opportunity or suffering? They could be both, but are you in a place in your walk where you see opportunity like Paul did?
3.) When looking at Paul’s life and comparing it to our society and culture in what you experience, do you feel that you are prepared to stand firm for the faith?
