The meeting of Grace Christian Church. We meet in person and stream services every Sunday at 10:30 AM EST in Manalapan, New Jersey.
- Theme of Philippians: The book emphasizes JOY, used 7 times, defined as a deep enduring state of gladness and peace from the Spirit of Christ. Paul expresses joy in the Philippian believers’ participation, defense, and confirmation of the Gospel over their 10-year relationship.
- Gospel Definition: Salvation is by belief in Christ alone as sin substitute (1 Corinthians 15:1-4), not by good deeds or additions like baptism or commitment. Rejects “Good Person Theology”; salvation = Belief in Christ + nothing. “Christ + Nothing = Everything!”
- Paul’s Focus on Progress in Faith: Shifts to “progress and joy in the faith” (Philippians 1:25), meaning forward movement in Christendom globally and individually, culminating in Christ’s return. Examines 3 joyful progressions from Philippians 1:12-30.
- 1. Joyful Progress of Salvations in Christ (Philippians 1:12-14, 19): Despite Paul’s imprisonment (house arrest in Caesarea, chained to guards), the Gospel advances. His circumstances lead to more salvations, including among Praetorian guards and others, inspiring courage in brethren to share the Word fearlessly. God turns harm into good (echoing Genesis 50:20), ensuring ongoing salvations in all circumstances.
- 2. Joyful Progress of Living from Christ (Philippians 1:21): “To live is Christ and to die is gain.” Paraphrased as “Living from Christ” (Colossians 3:4). Paul prefers death to be with Christ but stays for believers’ benefit. Death as gain applies physically (eternity with Lord) and spiritually (crucifixion of self-life via the cross for sanctification). Yields self-dependence during trials to gain revelation and live from Christ as source, enabling all things through Him.
- 3. Joyful Progress of Striving Together with Christ (Philippians 1:25-27; Ephesians 4:3-4): Paul remains for believers’ progress and joy, urging unity in one spirit and mind for the Gospel. Unity comes from revelation by the Spirit, not fleshly opinions. Strive together in union with Christ (who is life and source), avoiding divisions from self or evil influences. Stand firm in the Spirit for the faith of the Gospel.
- Conclusion and Discussion: Summarizes the three progressions as sources of joy. Includes prayer for revelation, discussion questions (e.g., explaining statements to saved/unsaved, sharing personal experiences of good from harm, which progression brings most joy), and breakout sessions. From njgrace.org.
