I Thank My God
(Philippians 1:3–18)

I Thank My God
(Philippians 1:3–18)

Introduction:
Paul’s letter to the Philippians reveals his deep gratitude toward a congregation that had partnered with him in both joy and hardship. From prison, he wrote words of thanksgiving for their steadfast fellowship, abounding love, and boldness in the gospel. His joyful spirit teaches us to remain thankful in every circumstance.

Paul Was Thankful for Their Fellowship in the Gospel
Paul opened his letter expressing gratitude: “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3). Though imprisoned for nearly two years, his thoughts were not of self-pity but of thanksgiving. Every memory of the brethren in Philippi filled him with joy and prayerful affection. They had been his partners in spreading the gospel from the very beginning. Their fellowship was more than sentiment—it was active partnership. The Philippians had supported Paul financially and spiritually in Thessalonica, Corinth, and Rome, even when they themselves were struggling. They were partakers with Paul of grace, sharing in his chains, in his defense of the gospel, and in the confirmation of the truth. Paul’s use of the word “grace” reminds us that suffering, sacrifice, and service for the gospel are privileges of divine favor. Their faithfulness was evidence that “He who began a good work” in them would complete it (Philippians 1:6).

Paul Was Thankful for Their Abounding Love
Paul’s prayer for them was that their “love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment” (Philippians 1:9). Biblical love is not uncontrolled emotion—it is educated by truth. As believers grow in knowledge of God through His Word, their love becomes wiser, deeper, and more discerning. This kind of love enables us to approve things that are excellent, choosing what is best over what is merely good. It shapes sincerity, allowing our faith to stand the test of inspection as genuine and blameless. Such love bears the “fruits of righteousness” through Christ, bringing glory and praise to God. Life’s daily choices are opportunities to exercise this love that reflects the mind of Christ.

Paul Was Thankful That His Adversities Advanced the Gospel
Though confined in chains, Paul saw his imprisonment as progress for the gospel. “The things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel” (Philippians 1:12). The Greek word for “furtherance” describes cutting a pathway through obstacles—Paul’s chains cleared a way for the message of Christ to reach new audiences. The palace guard, elite soldiers of Rome, heard of Christ because of Paul’s imprisonment. His courage also emboldened other believers to speak God’s Word without fear. The gospel advanced because one man saw opportunity instead of despair. Wherever we are placed, we too must use our situation to influence others for good.

Paul Was Thankful That Christ Was Being Preached
Even in prison, Paul rejoiced that the name of Christ was being proclaimed. “Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife… but the latter out of love” (Philippians 1:15–16). Some preached from jealousy and rivalry, hoping to worsen Paul’s suffering. Others preached from pure motives of love and obedience. Yet Paul rejoiced either way—because Christ was being preached and souls were hearing the truth. His gratitude reminds us that God’s Word never returns void. The message is greater than the messenger. What mattered most to Paul was that Christ was exalted and the gospel continued to reach the lost.

Conclusion
Even while chained for his faith, Paul found countless reasons to thank God. He was grateful for loving brethren, for spreading truth, for the courage of others, and even for hardships that became instruments of grace. Like Paul, we must learn to see God’s hand in every circumstance and respond with joy and gratitude.

I Thank My God Sermon Outline:

• Introduction: Philippians 1:3–18 – Paul’s joy and gratitude from prison.

• I. Thankful for Fellowship in the Gospel (Philippians 1:3–8)

  • Their partnership was constant and sacrificial.

  • They supported Paul through prayer, encouragement, and giving.

  • They were partakers of grace—sharing in his chains, defense, and confirmation of truth.

  • God would complete His work in them (Philippians 1:6).

   

• II. Thankful for Abounding Love (Philippians 1:9–11)

  • Love shaped by knowledge and discernment.

  • Ability to approve things that are excellent.

  • Sincere, without offense, filled with fruits of righteousness.

  • Love that glorifies God.

   

• III. Thankful for Adversities That Furthered the Gospel (Philippians 1:12–14)

  • Paul’s imprisonment opened doors to the palace guard.

  • His courage inspired others to speak boldly.

  • Hardships can become opportunities for evangelism.

   

• IV. Thankful That Christ Was Preached (Philippians 1:15–18)

  • Some preached from envy, others from goodwill.

  • Regardless of motives, the gospel advanced.

  • Paul rejoiced in the success of God’s message.

   

• Conclusion: Be thankful in all things—grace, love, suffering, and service.

Call to Action:
Let Paul’s example inspire us to cultivate gratitude that transcends circumstances. Whether in hardship or blessing, our faith must produce thanksgiving and joy. We should partner in the gospel, abound in love, and rejoice whenever Christ is proclaimed. May we live as true partakers of grace, faithful to the end.

Key Takeaways:

• True fellowship in the gospel joins hearts in service and sacrifice (Philippians 1:5–7).

• Love must be informed by knowledge and discernment (Philippians 1:9–10).

• God can use adversity to open doors for the gospel (Philippians 1:12–14).

• The preaching of Christ—whatever the motive—spreads truth and hope (Philippians 1:18).

• Gratitude transforms suffering into worship (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Scripture Reference List:

• Philippians 1:3–18 — Paul’s thanksgiving, love, and rejoicing in Christ.

• Philippians 4:19 — God supplies every need according to His riches.

• 2 Corinthians 8 — The Philippians’ generosity in poverty.

• 1 Peter 3:15 — Be ready to give a defense for the hope within you.

• Acts 5:38–39 — God’s purposes cannot be overthrown.

• 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — Give thanks in everything.

Series on Philippians: Lesson 2
Prepared by Bobby Stafford of the church of Christ at Granby, MO