Philippians 4:4-7 - Good Citizens of Heaven

At the end of Philippians chapter 3 Paul reminds the Philippian believers of where their true citizenship lies. Yes, they are Roman citizens and, yes, that citizenship grants them certain rights and privileges. But that Roman citizenship has a darker side as well. Roman opposition to the faith is growing. The Philippians are experiencing opposition both from the culture at large and more and more from the government itself. The kingdoms of this world are never what they're cut out to be.

Paul has been working throughout this entire letter to prepare the church at Philippi for the persecution that is coming. There was a lack of focus. He has reminded them that life is Christ. There was a temptation to adapt Jewish ceremonial and cultural laws as Christian mandates. He has reminded them of what the gospel is and encouraged them to pursue Christ. There was division in the church. He has corrected that disunity by recommending to them the mind of Christ--that of humility. And now that Caesar has turned against them he has reminded them of where their true citizenship lies and that Caesar is not Lord. Christ is Lord.

So we come to verses 4-7 of chapter 4 and we read some of the most beautiful words in the letter.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 

Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication 

with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, 

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

In perilous times Christ offers peace. In the midst of opposition and persecution Christ offers freedom from anxiety. In a world of tragedy and sorrow Christ offers joy. Our hope in this world is not anchored in politics or free markets or a social safety net. Our hope is in Christ. He is our joy. He gives us the peace that surpasses all understanding. He is attentive to our prayers and grants us all our needs. He even tells us how best to communicate the glorious gospel message that those who oppose us so desperately need to hear.

This is the second lesson taken from chapter 4 of Philippians. I hope that you will listen to it and that it will be a blessing to you. The style is that of an informal, small group setting and sometimes there is discussion involved. So don't think of this as a sermon, but a lesson. Just click below and be blessed.


Click here: Philippians 4:4-7

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