A Joyful Imprisonment
A Sermon on Philippians 1:1-26 by Pastor Allan Santos
Watch the sermon here.
Introduction
Welcome to our new preaching series on the book of Philippians! We titled this series “Jesus is the Source of Our Joy”. One of the aims of this preaching series is for the congregation to be challenged to see Jesus as our source of joy even if we are experiencing struggles and challenges in our daily lives.
The Apostle Paul wrote this book when he was in prison. He was experiencing persecution and difficulties when he wrote this prison epistle. Yet, his spirit and faith were on fire because of the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus. Paul, in this book, encourages the Philippian church to stand firm in their faith, to know Jesus deeply in their minds and hearts, and to encourage the church to see Jesus as the source of their joy in whatever circumstances they are facing.
Outline:
Paul’s thanksgiving and challenge to the Church to remain steadfast in living for Jesus (vv.1-8)
Paul’s prayer for the believers to develop godly discernment (vv.9-11)
Paul’s imprisonment is a God-given circumstance to proclaim the gospel (vv.12-18)
Paul’s unwavering service to Christ even in life and death (vv.19-26)
Believers’ call to live a peaceful and joyful life in Jesus despite the struggles and persecutions they are facing. (vv.27-30)
Application from God’s Word:
Paul was encouraged because of the Philippian church’s care, prayers, and material blessings to him in time of his difficulties in prison. May we all develop kindness and compassion for those people who need support and encouragement in times of troubles and loneliness.
When our life is messy and feels out of control, always remember that God is working in us and teaching us to be strong and to rely on Him. Let us rest assured that we can count on God to help us when we are in need. Would you trust God in your situation today?
God is the giver of our joy, peace, and contentment in life. Just like the Apostle Paul, may we put our complete dependence on the Lord when we feel alone, and are filled with worries in our life. May we choose to be joyful in our daily living even if we are tired, full of struggles and even experiencing physical pain.
