Daily Devotions
Philippians
"The affection of Jesus Christ."
Text: Philippians 1:8
STRONG MOTIVATION
It is difficult to endure any suffering. The apostle Paul endured much suffering for the sake of the gospel. He must have very strong motivation to be able to stay so deeply committed to the cause he espoused.
“For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all
with the affection of Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 1:8
1. “God is my witness”
a) This was a special expression used by the apostle Paul.
b) He calls upon God as his witness.
c) What is the significance of this statement?
i) He is making a solemn statement of truth.
ii) It is almost like making an oath.
2. “How greatly I long for you all”
a) Paul bared his heart to the Philippians.
b) He loved them deeply.
c) He missed their fellowship (as he languished in prison).
d) He longed to see them for he missed them badly.
3. “With the affection of Jesus Christ”
a) The love that he bore for the Philippians was a deep and pure one.
b) The word “affection” is the same word translated “compassion” in other texts (Matthew 9:36).
c) The word “affection” is a valid equivalent of the word “compassion”.
AFFECTION IS A POWERFUL MOTIVATION
Compassion or affection is a powerful source of motivation for life and ministry.