even there???? (gospel impact)

Do you ever feel like NO ONE is interested in God or the gospel?
Does it seem like NO ONE in your family will ever open up to the gospel?
Maybe you wonder if the gospel will penetrate your own life, marriage, home, heart?

A 1st century church in Philippi probably thought the same thing. Paul's letter to them (Philippians) reminded them that God's work started in them would come to completion (1:6). Paul challenged them to live their faith out in life and practice, to see themselves as citizens of heaven (chap 1-2).

But what about the gospel really making an impact around them?

Paul's last line in this letter must have floored them.

"the believers in Caesar's House send you greeting" (Phil. 4:22)

WHAT? WHO? IS THIS POSSIBLE?

Employees in Caesar's (Nero's) own empire are following Jesus!!! How did this happen?
Paul does mention that news of Jesus was spreading to the guards (1:13).

Imagine in a context where ROME's rule and influence - Caesar's power - touched every aspect of life (politics, economy, family, lifestyle, values, religion). YET, even there, the gospel got through.

THE GOSPEL GOT THROUGH. It penetrated. The result?? People within Caesar's house are now following Jesus.

If they can do it, the Philippians can do it. If they can do it, we can do it.

Because God's spirit empowers believers to love and serve God in any culture and circumstance. God's spirit can woo anyone, anywhere, towards Jesus - and reveal God to them.

Can the gospel penetrate your marriage? YES
Can it penetrate your neighborhood? YES
Your co-worker? YES
What about you? YES

If it broke through Caesar's house and transformed people there, I have a wonderful hope that it can even do that in me, and you, and our city.

GREATER THINGS ARE YET TO COME...