PHILIPPIANS. Mirror Bible

Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke visited Philippe and founded the first church in Europe on Paul’s second missionary journey around A.D. 50 (Acts 16:11-40) This letter was written in about 61 A.D. from Rome while Paul was under house arrest. He writes from a place of strength and joy to encourage his dear friends in Philippi, who were also facing many contradictions. Phil 1:20 My immediate circumstances do not distract from my message! I am convinced that our conversation now and always will continue to give accurate account of the magnificence of Christ. The message is incarnate in me; whether I live or die, it makes no difference. Phil 1:21 Christ defines my life; death cannot threaten or diminish that. Phil 2:12 “Not only in my presence but much more in my absence...” Paul knew that he would be more present in his message than in his person! Ministry success is not measured by how many partners you can congregate, but how absent you can preach yourself! Phil 3:1 The conclusion of your faith is extreme gladness in the Lord. He is your constant reference to bliss! I am not just saying this to be repetitive; joy is your fortress! There is no safer place to be, but to be ecstatically happy! Paul encourages them not to allow religion to distract from the delight of romance. Phil 3:7 The sum total of my religious pedigree and sincere devotion amounts to zero! What we have been gifted with in Christ has reduced what once seemed so important, to meaningless information. To esteem the...