“...in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now.” Philippians 1:5

Yesterday, we started our study in Philippians. The series is entitled: “Extreme Joy”.

After suffering pain and rejection from many different directions, Paul writes one of the most encouraging letters in the New Testament while chained to a Roman soldier—that is joy…Extreme Joy!

As we spend time in Philippians, we will learn how this joy can be ours. It starts with an understanding of our partnership in the Gospel. We were born again when we responded to the Good News of God’s grace.

Our forgiveness is something we share in common—together! Look at how Paul put it:

“…you all are partakers of grace with me.” (Phil. 1:7)

Now, we are given the responsibility and privilege of sharing the Good News (the Gospel) with everyone that God brings into our lives.

• Together—as a church;
• Together—with Christians all over the world;
• Together—cooperating with the work of God’s Spirit,
• …we share in the partnership of the Gospel.

The Greek word “koinonia” means fellowship…sharing in common. It is the word used to describe our salvation and our partnership.

God initiated this relationship. He put us in the Body of Christ—together. Now, together, we have a partnership in telling the world about Jesus. As we align our lives to the message of His grace, we begin to learn “Extreme Joy.”