Philippians 1

Introduction:

The book of Philippians will teach us the Biblical concept of joy.

I want us to look at the foundation upon which our joy rest. That foundation is the Christian life. This Christian life is impossible without Christ!

Keep in mind as we study this first chapter, that one of the foundation stones upon which joy rests is fellowship. "Fellowship" means to have in common. The common denominator is Christ.

I. THE GREAT PROMISE FOR THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

  A. The strength of the promise. "being confident"

  B. The source of the promise. "he which hath begun"

II. THE GREAT POTENTIAL FOR THE CHRISTIAN LIFE vv.        9-20

    A. To mature in the faith vv. 9-11

         1. To properly face the future vv. 9-10

         2. To purposely be filled with fruits v. 11

    B. To minister for the faith vv. 12-20

          1. By personal experience v. 12

              "which happened unto me"

          2. To preach evangelistically vv. 13-20

             "Christ is preached"

              a. chains vv. 12-14

              b. critics vv. 15-19

III. THE GREAT PURPOSE OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE vv. 21-26

      A. To magnify Christ vv. 2 1-24 (ef. v. 20)

          1. That men might see Him.

          2. That men might be saved by Him.

      B. To minister for Christ vv. 25-26

IV. THE GREAT PRIVILEGE OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE vv.           27-30

      A. The privilege of salvation vv. 27-28

      B. The privilege of suffering vv. 29-30