Soul Satisfaction - A Study In Philippians

Redirecting . . .Acts 16:6-10   Rather than going into Asia, the gospel was taken into Macedonia, and the church at Philippi was launched.   Implication:  Often the unexpected ends up being the greatest blessing.  It may be disguised by difficulty, but in the end its refined worth is unveiled and brings great joy. (vv. 3-5)   Remembering . . .   When Paul remembers them, his recollection is not of the beatings he incurred, but of the effect of the gospel in the lives of the Philippians. (vv. 5-7) ·         As they received the gospel, they arepartners in the gospel. ·         As they received the gospel, they became participants of grace.   Implication:  The gospel should be the central focus and compelling passion of our life.   Praying . . .   Paul prays . . . ·         Love that abounds exceedingly. (v.9) o   Authentic biblical community is saturated with all-satisfying joy and Christ-like affection when the gospel is the central focus. §  Everyone needs the gospel of grace. §  The gospel changes everything and everyone.     ·         Knowledge and discernment. o   Knowledge with discernment equals wisdom.   For this reason . . . ·         To approve what is excellent. (v. 10)   And in doing so . . . ·         They would be pure and blameless for the day of Christ. (v. 10-11) ·         They would be filled with the fruit of righteousness. ·         They would bring much glory to God.   Implication: As we have been transformed by the gospel, our lives should give evidence of the gospel.