Notes on Philippians

 Ch.1:15-18

18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.

Not that this is necessarily a good thing - but rather, Paul is trusting everything into the hands of the One who is sovereignly able to work all things - whether good or evil - together for good.

Ch.3:2-10

3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh—

Link with John Ch.4:23

15 Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. 16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained.

Meaning the one place where we must all agree; the only hill worth dying on: The Cross of Christ Jesus. Paul goes on to affirm this, in vs.18.

21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Link to 1Thessalonians Ch.4 ~ the great catching away.

4 Therefore, my brothers,[a] whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

Our crown should not be of ourselves, but of how we have laid down our lives in the service of others. 

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness[d] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 

He is coming…

6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

This is all instructions to be ready for his return.

18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 

Why?

Because, just like Paul in vs.11-13, their acts of giving was a sacrifice of Love

20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.