Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke visited Philippe and founded the first church in Europe on Paul's second missionary journey around A.D. 50 (Acts 16:11-40) This letter was written in about 61 A.D. from Rome while Paul was under house arrest. He writes from a place of strength and joy to encourage his dear friends in Philippi, who were also facing many contradictions. Phil 1:20 My immediate circumstances do not distract from my message! I am convinced that our conversation now and always will continue to give accurate account of the magnificence of Christ. The message is incarnate in me; whether I live or die, it makes no difference. Phil 1:21 Christ defines my life; death cannot threaten or diminish that. Phil 2:12 "Not only in my presence but much more in my absence..." Paul knew that he would be more present in his message than in his person! Ministry success is not measured by how many partners you can congregate, but how absent you can preach yourself! Phil 3:1 The conclusion of your faith is extreme gladness in the Lord. He is your constant reference to bliss! I am not just saying this to be repetitive; joy is your fortress! There is no safer place to be, but to be ecstatically happy! Paul encourages them not to allow religion to distract from the delight of romance. Phil 3:7 The sum total of my religious pedigree and sincere devotion amounts to zero! What we have been gifted with in Christ has reduced what once seemed so important, to meaningless information. To esteem the law is to your loss! Faith is your profit. Phil 3:8 In fact, I have come to the conclusion that every association I have had with that which defined me before as a devout Jew, is by far eclipsed by what I have gained in knowing the Messiah. Jesus Christ and his masterful redemption define me now. Religion is like dog pooh; and it stinks, avoid stepping in it! Phil 4:4 Joy is not a luxury option; joy is your constant! Your union in the Lord is your permanent source of delight; so I might as well say it again, rejoice in the Lord always! Phil 4:6 Let no anxiety about anything 1distract you! Phil 4:11 I have discovered my "I am-ness" and found that I am fully 1self sufficient, whatever the circumstance. (Self sufficient, 1autarkes, self complacent, the feeling you have when you are completely satisfied with yourself.) Phil 4:13 In every situation I am strong in the one who empowers me from within to be who I am! (Paul lived his life in touch with this place within himself. He