No anaesthetic required! - Philippians 4:10-23

Philippians 4 v 10-23 “No anaesthetic required”

 

Intro: “I would be happy if …”

 

        1) The “WHY” of joy

 

Paul rejoices NOT because their gift has made his life easier (v10-13) but because their gift shows God’s work in their lives;

 

• Because their attitude brings God’s blessing (credited to their account)

 

 

• Because their sacrifices bring God glory (fragrant offering, acceptable sacrifice, something that pleases God)

 

Why rejoice? Because of God’s work, God’s blessing, God’s glory. Because all these are given to us in Jesus.

 

           2) The “HOW” of joy

 

3 great statements;

• “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation”

 

• “I can do all this through him who gives me strength”

 

• “And my God will meet all of your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

 

 

Sound like a life of continual victory and prosperity?

1 sobering reminder;

• “It was good of you to share in my troubles.”

 

Joy grows over time as trials and troubles help us to treasure Christ above all else, as they force us to depend upon Christ and not ourselves, as they reveal to us God’s constant provision that never fails.

 

                3) The “WHO” of joy

 

• Joy is IN CHRIST (all through Philippians)

 

 

 

• Joy is WITH GOD’S PEOPLE (v21-23)

 

This letter filled with joy is bookended with grace (v2 and v23). Eternal, lasting joy is on offer because of the grace poured upon us in Christ. 

 

Questions to think more about;

1) "I would be happy if ...." How are you tempted to finish that sentence wrongly? Is there evidence in your life that you are pursuing joy in the wrong places?

2) If Paul doesn't need the financial gift from the Philippians, why is he rejoicing about it? Are you making financial sacrifices for the sake of gospel progress? If not, what are you missing that Paul isn't? 

3) What do you think of Paul describing the gospel partnership with the Philippians as a 'sharing in his troubles'? Is the Christian life a victorious one or not? 

4) How does joy grow in a believer's life? What part do trials and troubles play in this? Can you see growth in prayer, dependency and gratitude in your life as the Spirit works in you? 

5) List all the reasons you can think of as to why knowing Christ is joyful. How are God's people (v21-23) connected to our joy?