4/15/26
Why Church?
Paul tells us in Philippians that he has learned to be content in all circumstances.
Yet he still needed fellowship.
When Paul was headed to Rome under guard he had been shipwrecked on Malta. While there, he conducted a major evangelistic work and then boarded a ship for Rome. It had been a long journey with many perils. Once they finally arrived, they still had a long journey ahead by land.
When we get to the text we see some brothers in Christ came to meet him. Acts 28:15 NASB95 And the brethren, when they heard about us, came from there as far as the Market of Appius and Three Inns to meet us; and when Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
Our verse says that when Paul saw them. Them being brothers in Christ, or in other words the Church, he thanked God. Paul was pleased and felt it a blessing to see and fellowship with other believers.
Missionaries have to take a furlough or stateside assignment usually after 4 years in the field. This is not a vacation but is used to bless them for the years of service in which they empty themselves for the gospel. During this time they will meet with many churches, to share what the Lord is doing, but also to be poured into just as they have poured out. For this, I know many are extremely thankful and give praise and thanks to the Lord God.
Our text also says Paul took courage. He received, acquired, took possession of, collected, and seized, courage. Paul received inspiration, he acquired hope, took possession of confidence, collected peace in the middle of his dangerous position, and he seized boldness, to encourage him.
Because of the Church's presence and his fellowship with them, the apostle Paul was able to encounter the danger of his trial and the difficulty of imprisonment, without giving up hope.
Because of this, he was able to write to the Church at Philippi, Philippians 4:10-14 NASB1995 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.
How does Christ strengthen him? The answer is the indwelling Holy Spirit and the blessing of the courage provided through fellowship with the Church.
So the question was, Why Church?
If you don't know the answer scroll back up and read this all again.
If Paul needed the Church it is safe to say we need Church also.
Love Bro. Scott