Paul invites us to dwell on why he had so much affection for this group of people. He claims they were ‘partners with him in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.’ (Phil 1:7) Their bond was formed in the furnace of affliction. They had linked hearts, arms, and voices in the declaration that Jesus is King; a proclamation that was likely to get one ostracized from society and eventually imprisoned. It was this partnership that solidified their friendship. In the Scriptures, a shared mission leads to connected hearts. Mission begets community, not the other way around.
I wonder if it’s difficult for us as Western Christians to develop a community because we have lost the impetus and significance of our shared mission. We have Life Groups (which are great!) and several other ways for people to connect, but there is nothing like the bond that forms amongst people who serve and suffer together. Think back to a time in your life when you were deeply committed and connected to a group of people. Maybe it was a sports team, a band, or a club, and I’m guessing the reason you were so close was the common goal you were trying to achieve together. This is what Paul is experiencing and writing about in Philippians 1, and what we’ve been designed to experience.
The best part about Paul’s affection for the Philippian church is that it stirs in him great joy! Their partnership is a gift to the world, but it’s also a blessing to him personally. Take some time today and think about people who are co-laborers with you. Spend some time thanking God for them and then reach out to them with a text, email, or phone call, and let them know you are grateful for them. Partnership is one of the great joys of the gospel.
Ryan Paulson
Lead Pastor