This epistle was written while Paul was a prisoner at Rome, perhaps A.D. 62. Its theme is the adequacy of Christ for all the experiences of life--persecution, hardship, suffering, as well as prosperity and popularity. Christ gives joy and triumph whatever may come, if Christ is allowed to be the center of life. Paul's motto is "For to me, to live is Christ" (1:21). A note of triumphant joy in Christ permeates the book, despite the apostle's severe testings in the interim. The note of joy is sounded more than 18 times in the course of the short letter. "Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again, rejoice!" (4:4). Come and join us to find that joy and hope.
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