Sermon Summary: Pastor Dave Hentschel
April 16, 2023
Scriptural Text: Philippians 1:1-11
Author Katherine Wolf says we need to “Disrupt the myth that joy can only be found in a pain-free life.” This could be the tag line for the book of Philippians. Philippians 1:1-11 is a passage from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, written by the Apostle Paul to the Philippians, a Christian community in the city of Philippi. The passage carries several themes, including gratitude, prayer, love, and growth in faith. It is also a passage about choosing joy in the midst of very difficult circumstances.
The passage begins with Paul expressing gratitude and thanksgiving to God for the Philippians and their partnership in the Gospel. He remembers them fondly and prays for them with joy. (Phil 1:1-3) Next, Paul expresses his prayers for the Philippians, specifically praying for their love to abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. He also affirms his confidence that God, who began a good work in them, will carry it on to completion.(Phil 1:4-6) Third, we see Paul's Affection for the Philippians (Philippians 1:7-8): Paul expresses his deep affection for the Philippians and how they have been in his heart, both in his imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the Gospel. He longs for them with great affection and desires their continued growth in faith. (Phil 1:7-8) Finally, Paul prays that the Philippians' love may abound in knowledge and discernment, so that they may approve what is excellent and be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ. He desires that they bear the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. (Phil 1:9-11)
Drawn from these first 11 verses, here are the six decisions we can make to choose joy, even in adversity:
- I Choose Joy … When I Remember the Grace of God.
- I Choose Joy … When I Am Grateful For the People In My Life.
- I Choose Joy … When I See The Good In Other People
- I Choose Joy … When I Remember That All People Are In Process.
- I Choose Joy … When I Choose To Love People From The Heart.
- I Choose Joy … When I Choose To Pray For The People In My Life.
Overall, Philippians 1:1-11 conveys Paul's deep affection, gratitude, and prayers for the Philippians' growth in love, knowledge, and righteousness, as well as his confidence in God's faithfulness in their lives. It encourages the Philippians to continue in their faith, be united in love, and live in a manner that brings glory to God.
MBC's Bible Engagement Plan
MBC’s Bible Engagement Plan: Isaiah – From Ruin to Redemption
As a church community, our desire is to move from hearing God’s Word to living it out daily. This Bible Engagement Plan is designed to help us walk through Isaiah together in a weekly rhythm that deepens our understanding while also cultivating habits of daily reading and reflection.
- LISTEN TO THE SUNDAY SERMON
Each week begins with the Pastor’s Sunday sermon on a passage from Isaiah and includes
- Pastor’s Outline: A guide to follow along and take notes. We also suggest picking up the Isaiah scripture journal from the Welcome Center.
- Discussion Questions: Provided to encourage reflection and conversation in small groups, families, or personal study. If you are not already part of a small group, consider joining one this Fall: Click here to explore one of MBC’s small groups
- READ AND REFLECT ON THE WEEKLY PLAN
Monday through Saturday, follow the suggested reading plan outlined in the Saturday eNews Bulletin. As you read and reflect on your passage each day, ask these two guiding questions and jot down your thoughts in your Isaiah journal.
- What does this passage reveal about God—His character, His purposes, or His promises?
- How should I respond in light of what I’ve read—through trust, obedience, repentance, or worship?
- MEMORIZE THE WEEKLY KEY VERSE
Every week, one key verse from the sermon will be highlighted for memory. You are invited to use the free Bible Memory app and join the “Millington Baptist Church” Bible memorization group: Click here to join
- READ AND REFLECT ON THE PASTOR’S DEVOTIONAL BLOG
Each Wednesday, one of our pastors will share a devotional expanding on the sermon theme helping to connect Isaiah’s message to everyday life.
Why This Rhythm Matters
- Immersion: This plan helps you engage learning in multiple ways—hearing, reading, memorizing, and reflecting—so you gain a richer understanding of Isaiah’s message.
- Transformation in Community: Discussion questions and shared readings create space for us to learn together and nurture application of the biblical principles into our daily lives.
Questions or comments?
Contact Amy Huber, Director of Discipleship and Connections: ahuber@millingtonbaptist.org
Previous Entries
Pastor Bob Erbig and Pastor Dave Hentschel
