Generosity Philippians 4 10 23 1 Generosity Context

Generosity Philippians 4: 10 - 23 1

Generosity Context • Paul and Timothy are in prison in Rome • Paul is nearing the end of his letter and has a number of encouragements to write about 2

Generosity A Cause for Rejoicing (10) • This has been a letter full of rejoicing despite Paul’s circumstances • The Philippians had sent supplies to him as soon as they could 3

Generosity Contented (11 - 13) • Paul’s contentment is not dependent on his situation • How is this possible? • He has Jesus as his support, comforter and the one who gives him strength 4

Generosity A pattern of generosity (14 - 18) • • The Philippian church had supported Paul before, this was not a one off event (16) Their generosity would be rewarded by God (17) Their generosity pleased God (18) They were an example to other churches (see 2 Cor 8: 1 – 2) 5

Generosity • • God is our provider (19) This is a much quoted verse Remember the context – Paul is writing to a generous church, a generous people Don’t claim this promise if you are not generous to others God supplies our needs not 6

Generosity • • Closing remarks (20 – 23) May God be glorified forever Every saint is valuable to God and we should value them There were even saints in Caesar’s household (22) – God has His people everywhere May the grace of the Lord be with everyone 7

Generosity What about us? • • • We need to be grateful for what we have – even in difficult times With Jesus with us we have all we need – trust God and seek to please Him Be generous – this reflects God’s character 8