Sermon Series: Update

Dear congregation,

I was reminded the other day to preach correction and rebuke, as well as topics regarding the joy we have in Christ. I have spent the last two days mulling over that admonition. As a result, I believe the Lord is leading me to preach through the book of Philippians (suspending the series in 1 Timothy, for now).
 
 "The letter to the Philippians is one of the most joyous books in the Bible. All the way through the letter Paul speaks of inner joy, of inner happiness -- sixteen times in four brief chapters.  And he does it in such an artless way we know that one who advised the Philippians to 'rejoice in the Lord always' had himself found the true source of joy. He had not only learned in whatever state he was to be content; he had learned to rejoice in whatever state he was. He overflowed with rejoicing." (James Montgomery Boice, Philippians: An Expositional Commentary (Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker Books, 2000), 12. Emphasis added)

"Paul's letter to the church at Philippi is one of the gems of the New Testament. Freed from the need to engage in controversy with his opponents, Paul was able to share his joy in the gospel with his beloved fellow believers at Philippi. Even though he wrote from prison, Paul's letter exults in the joy of the gospel and the great hope which it brings to those who know Christ. It is impossible to read this letter without being deeply touched by Paul's total faith in the love and providence of God. No matter what his situation, Paul has discovered that he may serve and witness to the gospel of Christ. It is no wonder that this letter is so widely read and loved by Christians today." (Joseph Barber Lightfoot and Joseph Barber Lightfoot, Philippians, The Crossway Classic Commentaries (Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Books, 1994), ix. Emphasis added).

Therefore, the following preaching schedule for August will be followed, Lord willing (no changes to the music, unless indicated):

Aug. 4 Phil. 1:1-2

Aug. 11 Phil. 1:3-5 (**Final hymn: #409)

Aug. 18 Phil. 1:6 (**Final hymn: #434)

Aug. 25 Phil. 1:7-11