like reading the last chapter

When I was a teenager in middle school or high school, there were some students who when given a book report as an assignment would read enough of the first chapter to learn the characters’ names. Then, they would read parts of the middle chapters to find the big “high points”. Then, they would thoroughly read the last chapter. While they might have only read 30% of the book, they could often get a pretty good grasp of the book and make a pretty decent grade. (If you have students in your house, you might not want them to see this article.)

As we at Pleasant View Baptist Church read through the New Testament this year, we come across this verse on September 1st.

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).

Paul is so sure that the Church in Philippi will be completed by God, it is like Paul read the last chapter first. Revelation had not been written yet. But, Paul had been given a glimpse of heaven (see 2 Corinthians 12:1-10). Plus, Paul knows God’s heart. As he had trusted God through many difficulties, he began to see that “everything works together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose.”

I am sure about our church as well. God started something good. He will complete His work in us as we approach meeting Jesus in heaven.

In Jesus’ grace,
Pastor Jerry