“I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6
Philippians is one of Paul’s few letters that is solely focused on encouraging it recipients. Unlike most other churches, the church of Philippi was not in need of correction, so much as motivation to continue on the right path. They were doing so well, Paul did not want them to lose what they had been so empowered by God to accomplish in their walk. Therefore, we find this vote of confidence from Paul in his introduction.
The key to success in every church is to set ones passion on eternity. This was the heart of all the apostles. No one pushed that point more than Paul who makes eternity the mission in every letter. Paul was so confident in the value of eternal glory, he wrote this letter while in prison. To a church free with the expression of their faith, Paul emphasized his own freedom. He believed that the God of all mercy was perfecting him just as he perfects all who diligently seek after Him. Hence why further down in the passage he tells us that it is “God who works through us to will and to work.”
Philippians can be an encouragement to all believers as it reminds us that whether through trial or ease, God is with us working to change us more into His image. Notice how Paul says “until the day of Jesus Christ?” Perhaps we won’t be perfect in this life. But we are sure that by His spirit, there is evidence of His presence among us. He has not forsaken us. Neither should we lose hope in his dedication to us.
