It’s a good practice when we study a book of the Bible, to focus on key words. Recurring words will help us understand the theme of a book. For instance, in John’s gospel, the word “Father” is found over 100 times. Jesus’ relationship to the heavenly Father is a major theme of John’s writing. In John’s first epistle, we see “know” over 25 times. His purpose – to establish the true knowledge we have in Jesus Christ. In the book of Philippians, the words “joy” and “rejoice” appear more than 15 times. There are certainly other topics addressed throughout, but the need for us to rejoice permeates the epistle.
Prayer & Fellowship (1:3)
It is common in Paul’s salutations for the apostle Paul to tell his recipients that he is praying for them. He wrote to the Philippians:
...always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy..(Philippians 1:4)
What an encouragement to the disciples – Paul always prayed for them! They were dear to him, regularly on his mind, and he appreciated the fellowship they shared with him in the gospel. Again, he emphasized to them “how greatly I long for you all” (Philippians 1:8).
His constant prayer on their behalf was that God would finish the work of faith in them (v 6), and for growth in their love, knowledge and discernment. Brethren, how often do we pray for each other? It ought to be a joy for us to raise one another’s names before the heavenly Father. What a privilege to have each other as our spiritual family, and to be able to pray for the needs of our beloved brethren.
Rejoice In Trials (1:18)
Paul’s suffering for the Lord was known to the brethren at Philippi. If you recall, he and Silas were cast into prison there (Acts 16:19-25). By the time he wrote this letter, he’d been in custody in Caesarea, and by his own request, sent to Rome to stand trial before the Emperor. What was his crime? He was a faithful servant of God.
Some might complain with such unsavoury treatment, but not Paul. In fact, he assured the Christians at Philippi that his trials had
...actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel..(Philippians 1:12)
He did not complain while in prison in Philippi, nor would he complain while in custody in Rome. Complaining will destroy the Christian’s influence on others (Philippians 2:14-15). In fact, Paul said he would rejoice that he was poured out as an offering (Philippians 2:17). He encouraged the brethren to also rejoice with him in his afflictions for Christ.
A result of Paul’s willingness to suffer was that other Christians were also more bold to share the gospel (Philippians 1:14-17). In this, he also rejoiced (Philippians 1:18).
Rejoice Of Faith (1:25)
Though it would be to his benefit to pass from this life, Paul was willing to endure sufferings, for it was for the benefit of the saints. Thus, he would be privileged to share in the progress of their faith, and looked forward to the mutual joy of being with them again.
Paul wanted the brethren at Philippi to fulfill his joy as they shared in the comfort and fellowship in Christ (Philippians 2:1-2). To do so, they needed to share the same mind.
He had sent back to them Epaphroditus, one who had come from them to minister to him. This man had become sick, and longed to be with them again. It gave Paul joy, and he anticipated the joy of the Philippians at his return (Philippians 2:27-28). Never belittle the fellowship we should have with God’s people. The association we have with Christians ought to extend beyond Sundays; we are family in Christ. One can see the deep concern of Paul for the brethren, both Epaphroditus & his fellow countrymen in Philippi.
Rejoice in the Lord (3:1)
Rejoice in the fellowship we share with fellow Christians, and in the faith as we grow in our walk, and even in the trials that come our way for the gospel of Jesus Christ, but realize that all of these causes for joy are given because of the Lord. In each of these, it is not about you or I, but the Lord. He said,
…my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.(Philippians 3:1)
Indeed, this command to rejoice in the Lord is nothing different than he has already encouraged. In the next chapter, he would write:
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)
Paul is sure to let them know that he rejoices in the Lord regarding them. It seems Epaphroditus had borne a gift from the brethren to Paul. The gift brought joy to him, as it revealed their love for him (Philippians 4:10, 18). Certainly, any time we experience the love of another, it is a cause of joy in our lives. This ought to be a regular occurrence among the people of God.
Brethren, rejoice in the Lord! Have joy as we all grow in faith, have joy over the increase of boldness in one another to share the gospel. In trials, remember that it is an opportunity for us to rejoice in the sharing of the Lord’s sufferings. In all things, rejoice!
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