Verse 3 “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,”
When Paul thought of someone from the church of Phillip he had a fond memory. Imagine being a member of a church that an apostle of Jesus would think of you and give God thanks for knowing you. It is certainly implied in this verse and the rest of the book that Paul thought of this church often. Something about this church’s association with Paul has caused a love relationship. Usually, these things are mutual. The Philippians loved Paul and Paul loved them back.
It seems almost certain that the relationship Paul and the Philippians shared grew out of a similar relationship among the members of the Philippian church. The writer of Hebrews (many think it was Paul) admonished the churches to “Let brotherly love continue.” We may conclude that a congregation of believers who love each other find it easy to love others including visiting missionaries.
Churches that support the spread of the gospel are in as much need today as they were in Paul’s time.
Task for Today: Make an effort today to love a brother or sister in Christ, not in words but in deeds. Pray for those who are a part of your fellowship. Encourage brotherly love by being a brother lover. Do you know a missionary? Does this servant of Christ know he or she is loved by you. Pray for them. Lift up their hands. Call them or write them and let them know they are loved by you and your congregation.
To the Readers: Please feel free to comment. Please send me an email if you have a question or would like further explanation. I ask for your help in making this study available to as many people as possible. Please share the www.
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