Philippians: The Joy of the Lord

On June 18, 1973, Brother Stephen shared insights from a conference he attended in New Zealand in 1970, where a chorus expressing a desire to know the Lord became the theme. The conference attendees, rooted in the apostolic faith stemming from the Welsh revival, emphasized a deep relationship with God beyond mere signs and wonders. Stephen highlighted the letter to the Philippians, noting its intimate nature as a love letter from Paul to the church, filled with joy despite Paul's imprisonment. Paul’s secret to joy was living through Christ, not himself. He encouraged the Philippians to rejoice, emphasizing that true joy is rooted in God, not circumstances. Stephen contrasted joy with superficial pleasure, asserting that joy is a deep, sustained state arising from knowing God. He illustrated this through Christ's life, who, despite being a man of sorrows, maintained joy by fulfilling the Father’s will. Stephen concluded by urging believers to seek joy in fellowship and in serving others, reinforcing that the joy of the Lord is our strength, essential for overcoming life's challenges.

Outline of Main Points

• Introduction to the New Zealand conference and its theme song.

• Background of the attendees and their faith roots.

• Overview of Paul's letter to the Philippians as a love letter filled with joy.

• Paul's secret to joy: living through Christ.

• Distinction between joy and superficial pleasure.

• Christ as an example of joy amidst sorrow.

• Encouragement to seek joy in fellowship and serving others.

• The joy of the Lord as our strength in overcoming challenges.