Paul introduces his letter to the Philippians by reminding them of the joy that God offers them. We can attain deep-seated joy as we allow God to transform us over time. God promises to (if we let Him) grow us in our love for other people, teach us to understand and apply His truth, and help us develop in our moral integrity and health. Unlike happiness, this sense of joy is not dependent on circumstances. We are called to continually decide what we center our lives on: God's goodness (a focus which, in turn, produces deep-seated joy no matter the circumstances) or fleeting feelings of happiness. \r\n\r\n

Paul finds that faith in Jesus Christ offers a foundation of joy not found anywhere else. Through Jesus' forgiveness, Christians are provided deliverance from the fear of death, a new perspective in adverse circumstances, and motivation to serve God and other people. This is unlike anything other worldviews present. Christians have a God who is personal, who offers us assurance of salvation and eternal life, and who gives us plenty of evidence for His existence. This is what makes Christianity unique.

Paul writes to the Philippian Christians about the framework needed to have a successful Christian community. Believers share a common spirituality?being indwelt by the Holy Spirit?allowing them to be in fellowship with one another. They share the same source of truth?God's Word. Having the same access to truth enables them to love people in a godly way. Christians also share an understanding of Christ-like love and they have a common focus on reaching other people for Christ. All of these factors make for an enjoyable and deep community.

The Philippians were in danger of falling prey to false teaching about God, namely, legalism?essentially teaching that God's acceptance of humans/salvation is based on their works for Him. These false teachers were promoting circumcision as the basis for God's approval. Legalism puts confidence in the flesh to gain God's acceptance. Paul reminded the Philippians of the message of grace that they had previously accepted. They were right with God solely through God's forgiveness by means of Jesus' death; God's grace is not based on human works and is given in spite of sin.

We cover four key principles in spiritual growth. One is suffering. When we suffer we have the opportunity to deepen our understanding of God and our dependence on Him. The second key to spiritual growth is rejecting all forms of perfectionism. Thirdly, we are to continue moving forward in our relationship with the Lord. We can do this through: praying, reading the Bible, time with other Christians, and serving people. The fourth principle in spiritual growth is committing to observe and imitate mature Christians.

We can draw several principles about Christ-centered relating with each other from this passage. Paul the apostle implies that when we are following Christ, we are deeply involved in one another's lives. We are called to trust God to meet our needs and we demonstrate this trust in Him in a couple of ways: we can allow God to provide for us through other people (for example, Paul was receiving financial provision from the Lord through the church in Philippi); we can choose to give to others, especially in areas where we do not feel competent.