Remapping the Universe: Studies in Paul’s Letter to the Philippians

In this letter there is joy, there is a wonderful description of what God is like, what Christ is like, there is thankfulness, and there is a lot about God’s people being united. But more than that, Paul is doing something quite remarkable: he is “remapping the Philippians’ universe.”

Paul was in dire circumstances in a Roman jail. The Philippians had always been supportive of Paul and had sent Epaphroditus to take him something to meet his needs.

Things were tough for the Philippians too. Like most of the people in the Empire, they lived in poverty or just about getting by. They faced opposition from suspicious.

But something in the world has changed. Roman jails and ill-tempered neighbours and hard times are not the last word. Paul wants the Philippians to know that the current trials are not the last word, and that love, peace and joy are possible because of Christ’s Lordship over everything.

Week 1: Remapping the World & Its Power Structures

Week 2: Remapping our Idea of God

Week 3: Remapping our Thinking

Week 4 Love, Joy, Peace