This term on Sundays we will be focussing on the book of Philippians in the Bible. This is a letter written by the Apostle Paul – one of the earliest followers of Jesus, whom Jesus entrusted with the task of declaring and establishing his message. Paul wrote this letter to Christians in Philippi – a Roman colony in Macedonia (the modern Greek town of Krinides is in pretty much the same location, with the ruins of ancient Philippi on its borders – you can search it up to have a look!).

While some of the letters of Paul in the Bible are written to churches he was deeply worried about (because they were going badly off track), the church in Philippi is a great delight to him, and this delight spills out all over the letter.

Here are a few of the big themes that come up throughout the letter:

Unity – Paul continually emphasises the oneness that the gospel of Jesus brings across divides, and how that helps overcome difficulties like opposition and relational breakdown.

Standing firm – Paul calls for staying true to the gospel which gives life and joy in the face of challenges.

Partnership – the gospel (good news) message of Jesus doesn’t just belong to Paul or other leaders, it is something that all Christians share in and support – Jesus is the one we all live for.

Joy – Jesus is so good, the hope he brings us is so real, and the love he has for us spills over to one another. We have great reasons for joy!

A key statement in the letter (chapter 1, verse 27) sums a lot of this up:

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel

We’d love to have you join us as we drink deeply of this encouraging and joyful message together on Sundays – all welcome!

Service info: https://stpetersoftherock.church/on-a-sunday/