Suffering is an inevitable part of life. When Paul writes to the church in Philippi, he is enduring both personal hardship and public criticism. Despite these trials, Paul remains undeterred, confident that God will continue His work in believers until the day of Christ.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ brings people together despite our background or differences. Because of our relationship with Christ we become a community of believers or as Philippians calls it "holy people." As this church gathers together under recognized leadership "overseers and deacons" they participate as a church community and come alongside the apostle Paul as he is in prison in Ephesus. This partnership is act of friendship and kindness.