WEBVTT

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Introduction to the Epistle of Paul the
Apostle to the Philippians.

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This letter, written by a prisoner,
stresses that joy can be found in any

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situation.

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The prisoner was the Apostle Paul,
who was in Rome when he wrote to the

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Philippian church around AD 61.

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The word joy, in its various forms,
occurs some 16 times in the book.

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Joy stands in contrast to happiness,
which depends on our circumstances.

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Joy is presented as the quiet,
confident assurance of God's love and work

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in our lives, no matter what happens.

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This church at Philippi, in northern
Greece, was the first church established

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on the European continent.

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The ancient words written to this church
are just as helpful now as then.

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Pride will rob a person or a church of
joy, so Paul warns against self-seeking

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attitudes.

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As you listen, notice especially how Paul
lifts up the example of humility as Jesus

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set aside his glory and divine
prerogatives for us.

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Then, embrace the joy that comes from
sharing Paul's desire when he says,

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I count all things but loss for the
excellency of the knowledge of Jesus

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Christ my Lord.