As Paul moves forward in his letter to the Philippians, we begin to see the deep emotional nature of his love for the church at Philippi, and his love for Christ.

You can see this week’s passage in Philippians 1:7-8:

Paul shows his intense love for the Philippian church and his deep love for Christ quickly throughout this letter, and it begins here.

Even though Paul is in prison, he continues to deeply care for the church that supports him. The phrase, “it is right,” though it sounds somewhat defensive on Paul’s part, is actually a declaration of the depth of his love for these people.

Paul also uses the word “feel” here. This is a significant word in the letter to the Philippians, and he uses it ten times in these short chapters, more than a third of all the uses in the New Testament. This is a sympathetic interest or concern for the people of Philippi. It is an frame of mind, a life direction, but also carries overtones of emotional thought as well. Paul’s concern for the Philippians is deep and solid.

Next, Paul uses a term that is very imaginative. He states that he has the Philippians in his heart. Again, this shows the depth of his love for them. However, commentators are divided on the translation for the phrase. Half feel that it should be as shown here, but the rest translate it as “you hold me in your heart.” Based on the context, the first one is probably the correct translation.

Though Paul is in prison, he continues to minister to others, spreading the gospel. His words “defending and confirming” are legal terms, and are probably an indicator of his upcoming legal trials. However, there may be a double meaning, with a reference to his slavery to Christ. Both meanings can be seen in this text.

But Paul draws comfort in the fact that he is in God’s grace, and he knows that others are there with him.

Finally, in verse 8, Paul again states his longing and deep love for the Philippian people. He calls upon God to testify, knowing that even though they could not see his heart, God could see it, and knew of his love for these people. And that love was centered in Christ.

I can understand Paul’s sentiment here quite well. We have a church family that cares for us just as the Philippians cared for Paul. We have a church family that loves us and partners with us in ministry. And we love them with the same sort of deep, powerful affection that Paul loves the church in Philippi.

If you do not have such a church that you can partner with, I highly encourage you to find one and get involved. Our church has become our family, and I know of no deeper way to express our connection here. I’m sure Paul felt the same way. And you can too.

Question: Do you have a church family that you care for with such a deep affection? What is the best part about that relationship? You can leave a comment by clicking here.