Do you think of yourself in those terms? Do you identify as “St. ![]() The church has a life of its own, and you are a part of it, each one a part of the greater whole. No, he is addressing them as a congregation. He’s not speaking to them as just a bunch of random individuals, solitary Christians who just happen to show up at the same place now and then, but who then go their separate ways. Paul is addressing the Philippians collectively, that is, as a congregation. “Standing firm in one spirit.” Notice, by saying this, St. Matthew’s, “that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents.” “Standing Firm in One Spirit”: This is God’s purpose for you, for us as a congregation, and God will bring it to pass. And it is my desire for this church here in Bonne Terre. “Standing Firm in One Spirit”: That was Paul’s desire for the church in Philippi. ![]() Paul writes: “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents.” The text I have chosen for our sermon this morning is a portion of today’s Epistle. It is an outpost of the gospel where can come and be refreshed and strengthened in our faith, an oasis where we can drink deeply of the waters of life. We thank God for this little church we have here in Bonne Terre. Matthew’s Day, September 21, as a time to call special attention to the life and ministry of our congregation. So we’ve taken to using one of the Sundays closest to St. Matthew, the great apostle and evangelist, and his festival comes up on the church year calendar this week. Matthew’s Sunday.” Our congregation is named in honor of St. “Standing Firm in One Spirit” (Philippians 1:12-14, 19-30)
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