Claimed, gathered and sent

This is the sermon I am preaching on Sunday at St. Timothy Lutheran Church . The text is Philippians 4:1-9 In Philippians Paul speaks emotionally as the father, pastor, and teacher giving his dear ones words of lasting advice. He repeats and applies what he has already stated, giving practical advice for a life centered in Christ, which applies to us today too.   The first piece of advice is not to waver in the faith, but to stay on track and be steady in God (v. 1). Paul uses intimate language, unabashed in his love for this dear church. He addresses the entire community of faith at Philippi, leading to the specific appeal of the verses that follow Paul’s second piece of advice is specifically for two individuals for unity (vv. 2-3). These were close co-workers of Paul. He wants the women to "iron out their differences and make up" (v. 2), regarding their work together in the gospel. Unity and harmony are so important that Paul appeals to another co-worker at Philippi t...

Here are some thoughts on the reading from Philippians from which I'll be preaching Sunday. This was shared with the people of St. Timothy Lutheran Church. Philippians 4:1-9 The Message   My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God. 2  I urge Euodia and Syntyche to iron out their differences and make up. God doesn’t want his children holding grudges. 3  And, oh, yes, [ my loyal companion], s ince you’re right there to help them work things out, do your best with them. These women worked for the Message hand in hand with Clement and me, and with the other veterans—worked as hard as any of us. Remember, their names are also in the Book of Life. 4-5  Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the M...