In Philippians 3:7-4:1, Paul contrasts his former Jewish achievements with his newfound joy in Christ, urging the Philippians to focus on Christ and not on legalistic traditions or worldly accomplishments, while also warning against false teachers and encouraging them to rejoice in the Lord.
Philippians 3:7-11:
- Paul’s Former Life:
Paul recounts his impressive Jewish heritage and achievements, including his strict adherence to the law and his persecution of Christians, but he emphasizes that he now considers these things as “loss” compared to the value of knowing Christ.
- Focus on Christ:
Paul states that he desires to know Christ, the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, and he is determined to be found in Him, not relying on his own righteousness but on the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ.
- Warning Against Legalism:
Paul warns the Philippians to beware of those who promote legalistic traditions and rituals, emphasizing that true circumcision is of the heart, not of the flesh.
- Imitation of Paul:
Paul encourages the Philippians to imitate him, not by focusing on his past achievements, but by following his example of pursuing Christ and living a life of faith.
Philippians 4:1:
- Encouragement to Rejoice:
Paul reiterates his previous encouragement to rejoice in the Lord, urging the Philippians to continue to live with joy and confidence in Christ.
- Call to Unity:
Paul calls for the Philippians to stand firm in the Lord, to be united in spirit, and to be of one mind, emphasizing the importance of fellowship and unity within the church.
Worship Calendar
Apr. 6 Lent: Heavenly Citizenship Philippeans 3: 7-4:1 Rev. Eric Lee
Apr. 13 Lent: Rev. Eric lee
Apr. 20 Easter Sunday Rev. Eric Lee
Apr. 27 Mission Awareness Sunday Mission team
May 4 Silver Jubilee Anniversary Rev. Eric Lee
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Christian Women of Etobicoke
After the World Day of Prayer on March 2nd, 2024, at Christ the King Anglican, their women’s group decided because of the great camaraderie enjoyed by approximately 60 women that it would be good to get together more than just once a year. So, they formed the Christian Women of Etobicoke group.
The first planning committee meeting was held in June 2024, and it was decided to focus on outreach to seniors in our community. Regular monthly events are planned with Christ the King being the venue due to accessibility. Each church will take a turn hosting. Average attendance so far has been about 50 seniors.
Currently five neighbourhood churches are involved, and they would welcome participation and contributions from Graceview. Their next planning meeting is April 7th at 10:00 at Christ the King. Anyone that would be interested in joining this committee, please speak to Maureen Screen for contact information.
Loonies for Lent
This year Outreach is asking you to set aside loonies and toonies or other monetary donations in order that we may send a large donation to the St James Food Basket. The money that we send will be spent on such basics as tuna, canned tomatoes, tomato paste and vegetable soup which will be distributed to their client families. Each year the number of people who rely on food banks continues to grow and the uncertain times that we are currently living in will only further increase this need. Outreach is asking our members to send their monetary donations to the church (loonies/toonies in containers, cash, cheques or e-transfers) to support this initiative. Please mark your envelopes for “Loonies for Lent, Outreach” and include your name and envelope number. We would appreciate receiving your contributions by April 20th.
A Spring Devotional Update: (Updated Mar. 25, 2025)
A new edition of These Days (April/May/June), as well as the current edition of Our Daily Bread (March/April/May) are available on the table in the church vestibule and in the devotional box on the church porch.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Residents of Parkland on Eglinton have booked a Mary Morton bus trip on Wednesday, May 14th to Stratford to see “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” at the Avon Theatre after Chicken Supreme entrée lunch at the Parlour Inn for $227. 00 each. Please call Maureen at 416-433-8148 if interested.