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Explore the profound message of love, unity, and resilience in The Epistle of Paul to the Philippians with our latest episode. Dive into the rich tapestry of emotions and teachings as Paul and Timothy express their deep connection to the believers in Philippi. Witness how Paul's words, written from imprisonment, become a testament to the paradox of adversity serving as a catalyst for spreading the gospel. Uncover how Paul grapples with his own desires, balancing the longing to be with Christ against the commitment to nurture the faith of the Philippians. By the end of this episode, you'll see how even the toughest circumstances can be transformed into opportunities for growth and glory.
Prepare to be inspired by the unwavering strength and encouragement Paul provides to his fellow believers. We talk about how he urges them to remain steadfast and unified, standing tall against any opposition they might face. As we dissect Paul's reflections, you'll learn how his life, devoted entirely to Christ, encourages an attitude of joy and gratitude. Whether you're new to this epistle or revisiting it, our discussion promises to leave you with a refreshed perspective on faith, love, and the power of enduring hope. Don't miss out on this insightful journey through one of Paul's most heartfelt letters.
Thank you for joining us in this episode of In the Field Audio Bible, where we explore the richness of God’s Word, chapter by chapter. We hope today’s reading brought insight, comfort, or inspiration to your journey of faith.
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The Epistle of Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 1.
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We, Paul and Timothy, are writing this letter.
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We serve Christ Jesus.
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We are sending this letter to you all, god's holy people in Philippi.
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You belong to Christ Jesus.
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We are also sending this letter to your leaders and deacons.
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May God, our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, give you grace and peace.
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I thank my God.
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Every time I remember you In all my prayers.
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For all of you, I always pray with joy.
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I am happy because you have joined me in spreading the good news.
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You have done so from the first day until now.
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God began a good work in you and I am sure that he will carry it on until it is completed.
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That will be on the day Christ Jesus returns.
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It is right for me to feel this way about all of you.
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I love you with all my heart.
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I may be held by chains or I may be standing up for the truth of the good news.
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Either way, all of you share in God's grace together with me.
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God is my witness that I long for all of you.
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I love you with the love that Christ Jesus gives.
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Long for all of you.
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I love you with the love that Christ Jesus gives.
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I pray that your love will grow more and more and let it be based on knowledge and understanding.
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Then you will be able to know what is best.
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Then you will be pure and without blame.
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For the day that Christ returns, you will be filled with the fruit of right living produced by Jesus Christ.
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All these things bring glory and praise to God.
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Brothers and sisters, here is what I want you to know.
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What has happened to me has actually helped to spread the good news.
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One thing has become clear I am being held by chains because I am a witness for Christ All the palace guards and everyone else know it and because I am a prisoner.
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Most of the believers have become bolder in the Lord.
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They now dare even more to preach the good news without fear.
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It's true that some preach about Christ because they are jealous, but others preach about Christ to help me in my work.
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The last group acts out of love.
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They know I have been put here to be a witness for the good news.
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But the others preach about Christ only to get ahead.
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They preach Christ for the wrong reasons.
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They think they can stir up trouble for me while I am being held by chains.
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But what does it matter?
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Here is the important thing.
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Whether for right or wrong reasons, Christ is being preached about.
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That makes me very glad and I will continue to be glad.
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I know that you are praying for me.
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I also know that God will give me the Spirit of Jesus Christ to help me.
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So, no matter what happens, I'm sure I will still be set free.
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I completely expect and hope that I won't be ashamed in any way.
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I'm sure I will be brave enough.
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Now as always, Christ will receive glory because of what happens to me.
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He will receive glory whether I live or die.
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For me, life finds all its meaning in Christ.
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Death also has its benefits.
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Suppose I go on living in my body, then I will be able to carry on my work.
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It will bear a lot of fruit.
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But what should I choose?
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I don't know.
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I can't decide between the two.
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I long to leave this world and be with Christ.
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That is better by far.
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But it is more important for you that I stay alive.
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I'm sure of this.
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So I know I will remain with you and I will continue with all of you to help you grow in your faith.
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I will also continue to help you be joyful in what you have been taught.
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I'm sure I will be with you again.
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Then you will be able to boast in Christ Jesus even more because of me.
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To boast in Christ Jesus even more because of me, no matter what happens.
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Live in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ.
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Then I will know that you remain strong, together in the one spirit.
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I will know this if I come and see you or only hear about you.
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I will know that you work together as one person.
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I will know that you work to spread the teachings about the good news.
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So don't be afraid in any way of those who oppose you.
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This will show them that they will be destroyed and that you will be saved.
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That's what God will do.
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Here is what he has given you to do for Christ.
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You must not only believe in him, you must also suffer for him.
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You are going through the same struggle you saw me go through, as you have heard.
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I am still struggling.
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