IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Daily Bread

Introduction to Philippians

Key Verse: 1:4-5

First, Paul's joyful thanksgiving (1-8). Paul writes to the holy saints at Philippi, "I thank my God every time I remember you." From the very first day Paul met Lydia by the river outside of Philippi, God had worked to establish a wonderful partnership in the gospel. Whether Paul was in chains in Rome or traveling as a missionary, the church in Philippi shared in God's grace through their love, prayer, and support for him. Paul was convinced that God's great work in them would continue on until its wonderful completion on the day of Christ. Nothing could break these bonds of brotherhood! Such partnership is what God wants for all of his children. God is glorified when we work together and long for each other with the affection of Christ.

Second, the contents of Paul's prayer (9-11). Paul prayed for an amazing chain reaction to occur. He prayed for their love and knowledge of God to grow and for discernment to live pure and blameless lives. What follows are lives that are filled with the fruit of righteousness - good deeds which bring glory to God. Paul's example teaches us how to pray for all our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Prayer: Father, grant us a healthy and joyful partnership in the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

One Word: Be partners in sharing God's grace