The Books of Philippians and Colossians: Joy and Completeness in Christ (21st Century Biblical Commentary Series)
by Robert Glenn Gromacki
Category: Religion

The book of Philippians is often referred to as the epistle of joy. According to Dr. Gromacki, Paul teaches that this joy comes from an understanding of who Christ is and what He has done for each believer, an emphasis on the gospel, and a proper motivation for our actions. Dr. Gromacki discusses the motivation of Paul: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (1:21). Just as people think "golf" when the names Arnold Palmer or Tiger Woods are mentioned, so believers thought 'Christ' when the name of Paul was mentioned. Paul wanted Christ to be magnified in his body, whether through living or dying for Him. The challenge to the reader is: What do people think of when they hear your name?