Joy in Philippians and in the Bible
This article looks at the theme of joy in the Bible, in both Old and New Testaments, including Paul’s letter to the Philippians.
The Judaisers and Circumcision – Philippians 3:1-3
Who were the Judaisers? And what does Paul say about circumcision in Philippians 3?
Paul’s Hebrew Heritage – Philippians 3:4-8
Paul had a prestigious Jewish heritage but he knew that following the traditions of Judaism would not enable him to gain Christ.
Righteousness and Justification – Philippians 3:9
What is the righteousness that comes from God? What does it mean to be justified? What does it mean to be reconciled with God?
The Onward, Upward Call – Philippians 3:10-14
What is the “upward call of God in Christ” mentioned in Philippians 3:14? Is it heaven or something different?
Maturity and Perfection – Philippians 3:15-19
Paul regarded his goal of spiritual maturity as something all Christians should aim for.
The Day of Christ – Philippians 3:20-4:1
Paul refers to the Day of Christ three times in his letter to the Philippians. What is the Day of Christ? Are you looking forward to this Day?
Ministers at Philippi: Women and Men – Philippians 4:2-5
Women and men ministered together in the Philippian church. Who were these ministers?
Prayer and Peace – Philippians 4:6-9
In Philippians 4:6-9, Paul tells the Christians in Philippi to be “anxious for nothing”, and he provides the antidote for worry and anxiety.
Money and Ministry – Philippians 4:10-20
Our attitude towards wealth and financial security can be a powerful force in our lives and might be an area that God needs to work on.
Closing Greetings – Philippians 4:21-23
This short entry looks at Paul’s closing greetings and blessing. It also looks briefly at Nero who may have been Emperor when Paul wrote Philippians.
Advice to Newlyweds
The first year or two of marriage can be bewildering, disappointing, and even painful, for some newlyweds. I offer this advice in the hope that it may prevent some conflict and heartache.
Junia in Romans 16:7
This article is about Junia—a minister mentioned by Paul in Romans 16:7—using and critiquing the ESV as a reference. Was Junia really a female apostle?
Instant Christianity?
When we entrust our lives to Jesus, our eternal life begins. Our salvation is a done deal, or so it would seem. Is it really a case of instant christianity?
Saving Faith in Action: James 2:14-26
This essay takes a close look at James 2:14-26 and explores the link between genuine Christian faith and compassionate, ethical deeds.
All-Encompassing Genuine Faith
Genuine faith in Jesus motivates our entire being. It moves our emotions, engages our mind, involves making decisions, and inspires our actions.
A Suitable Helper (in Hebrew)
Many people have had a narrow and lowly view of the meaning of “helper” (ezer) used for Eve in Genesis 2:18 & 20. How is ezer used elsewhere in the Hebrew Bible?
Motivations for Christian Ministry
What is your main motivation for sharing with others the grace, hope, and salvation that comes through Jesus? My motivation is joy.
Suffer or Succeed
Many people feel trapped and suffer in situations beyond their control. How can we prosper and have success despite difficult and unpleasant circumstances? [300 words]
4 Ways to Guard our Hearts and Minds
We need to discern the voices that are constantly presenting ideas, some of which may be opposed to God. Here are 4 ways to guard our hearts and minds.
In Christ, every day is a new day
Jesus did not come to make us “better” people or to give us a “better” life. He came so that we could become new, live a new life, experience a new day. [140 words]