Different

We just experienced the most divisive election in our lifetime. Tempers flared. Relationships strained and friendships were lost. Families divided over candidates, party platforms, and the partisan toxin of extreme dogma. How should God’s people respond? Differently. The Church of Christ in ancient Philippi was an eclectic congregation. Different nationalities, different social classes and economic stations. The church included a wealthy foreign businesswoman, an exploited slave girl, and a jailer who was a Roman citizen. “The top, the bottom and middle of society were all represented.”[1] The church had plenty of reasons for conflict and, in fact there was conflict. So, from a prison cell, Paul wrote to encourage the church to experience joy and peace. What Paul told them can help us experience peace, too.

[1] William Barclay, The Daily Study Bible Series: The Letters to the Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians, Rev. Ed., (Louisville, KY: The Westminster John Knox Press, 1975), 5.

11.08.20 - Harmony
Small Group Questions

11.15.20 - Joyful and Gentle
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11.22.20 - Peace
Small Group Questions