David Donnan

Preaching through books of the Bible opens your eyes to new insights.

I am currently starting a journey through Philippians. Last week, I invited our church to memorize Philippians 1:6 from the New Living Translation, which says:

And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

I picked this passage out not because it is the most famous but because it was from our opening passage. It also ties into our theme of holiness as Wesleyans. 

However, there are some great verses for memorization, including one of the most quoted passages in scriptures.

I could have invited the church to memorize these passages (from the New International Version):

Philippians 3:20

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Concluding Question

Friends, there are only four chapters in this letter. Yet, we see some of the most quotable parts of the New Testament. Is this the most quotable letter or portion of the Bible in proportion to the number of chapters? Or is this just pastoral enthusiasm for where I am studying?