Bible Study - Philippians Chapter 4 {And a Link Up!}

Philippians 4:1

In verse one Paul refers to the Philippians church as his “crown.”

From Wikipedia (laurel wreath):

“In ancient Greece wreaths were awarded to victors, both in athletic competitions, including the ancient Olympics made of wild olive-tree known as “kotinos” (κότινος), and in poetic meets; in Rome they were symbols of martial victory, crowning a successful commander during his triumph.”

Paul was making reference to the crown of life (Revelation 2:11) that he would one day receive for his sacrifice to the faith. It’s the prize at the finish line that he’s focused through scripture after scripture.

We also see Paul referring to them as “dearly beloved,” which shows the deep affection and close connection he had to his converts.

Philippians 4:2

By looking at verse two, it would seem that Euodia and Syntyche were dealing with some sort of conflict. Paul was urging them to be in harmony. It’s something that we still see in the church today as people seek their own interests and their need to be right.

Striving to be of one mind and live harmoniously, can only be accomplished with an attitude of humility.

What are some ways that Christians can repair relationships in the church?

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Philippians 4:3

Paul addresses the church as “yokefellow.” That word typifies oxen paired together by a wooden beam. Together they labor, pulling a cart. The word “yoke” is used elsewhere in scripture instructing believers not to be unequally yoked with non-believers. In order to accomplish our work, we must be in step with one another, rather than pulling in separate directions.

This is the first time the “book of life” is mentioned in the Bible. The Greek word for book is biblos, which is where our word “Bible” comes from.

The book of life is also mentioned in Revelation 22:19, “And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”

Do you think that your name is written in the book of life? Why or why not?

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Philippians 4:4-5

According to Strongs, G1933, “moderation” here means, equitable, fair, mild, gentle. The church is a witness to the world, and they are drawn to Christ by people who are gentle, fair, and mild as He was.

"He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth." ~ Isaiah 53:7

What things might you change to let your "moderation" show? Or is it showing already?

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Philippians 4:6

Again we see the theme of joy running through this letter. The word “joy” is used six times in this letter to the Philippians, and “rejoice” is mentioned eight times. Twice in verse 4, Paul says “rejoice in the Lord,” now he is telling them not to be troubled by anything, but to bring their prayers and needs (supplications) to God.

Is there anything in your life that is draining you of your joy? If so, write those things here and bring them to God in prayer.


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Philippians 4:7

Pay close attention to this verse. I often talk about the difference between the heart and mind, and here Paul is deciphering between the two.

Here’s what he’s saying:

The ways of God, and His paths that offer eternal peace, are beyond our intellectual capabilities. They protect our passions and our thoughts by offering us a better way to live.

This is why it’s possible to rejoice in times of trials. Because when we believe in God through Jesus Christ we accept that wisdom of God over the wisdom of man. It doesn’t always coincide with our passions. In fact as one reader put it, it feels more like a bed of nails than a comfy recliner at times.

There are two paths--one is that of walking in the Spirit and the other is walking according to the desires of the flesh. One leads to peace and the other to destruction.

The biggest lie that Christians tell themselves is this, “If God didn’t want me to do this, it wouldn’t feel so right.” This is where faith separates us from the world. When we follow God’s Word, we put our trust in Him. We believe that all things work out together for good to them who are in Christ Jesus, even if that good isn’t something we can see, touch, smell or define at this moment.

This faith is what carries us through trials both big and small. We don’t have the answers as to “why” they happen, but we remain focused on God believing that His ways are wiser than ours.

Are there areas of your life that you haven't given up to God? They might be things like addiction, anger, resentment, or lust. They are things that we are holding onto rather than feeling the sting of the pain that comes with living a sacrificial life. Living in comfort only benefits us in the moment, living a sacrificial life benefits us for eternity. Take the first step in releasing your strongholds by writing them down here:

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Philippians 4:8

I always say that you are only one thought away from joy. The world can try to bring us down, but they can’t control our thoughts. He has given us the power to change our way of thinking by focusing on good and tuning out the bad. The more we focus on good things the more we tune out the bad.

List ten positive things about your life:


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Philippians 4:9

We see four ways of growing in wisdom here:

• Learning
• Receiving
• Hearing
• Seeing

We learn by reading the word, and thereby growing in wisdom.

Receiving the word is accepting that word and choosing to live by it. It’s like receiving a football as opposed to letting it bounce off of your arms.

Hearing the word is different than just listening. It denotes one who is paying attention and considering the message. Anyone can listen to the gospel, but not all are willing to hear what is being said.

Seeing is watching the way that other believers walk and gleaning from them.

Philippians 4:10-16

By these verses we see that there was a time when the Philippian church wasn’t able to support Paul as much in his ministry, but here he was thanking them because things had changed. In fact he mentions that in the beginning of his ministry the Philippian church was the only ones giving to his ministry.

Paul explains that it doesn’t matter whether they were able to give much or little, as he was content in either situation. This is the same focus that all ministers of the gospel should have. If you receive well for your work it’s a blessing, but we all must learn to be content with little as well, since God supplies our needs.

But on that note, we must also remember that those in ministry need the support of their church to continue working. If they aren’t being supported as they should be, they may have to take part time jobs that take their mind off of the work at hand.

The more we can support our church financially, we lessen the burden that it has to pay wages and that of the day to day costs of running a church.

"Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward." ~ 1 Timothy 5:17-18

Tithes: The tenth part of agricultural produce or personal income set apart as an offering to God for the works of mercy, or the same amount regarded as an obligation or tax for the support of the church, priesthood, or the like. (dictionary.com)

Do you pay tithes? Why or why not?

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Philippians 4:17-23

It’s not as much as Paul was desiring a gift from them, but rather that he realizes the reward that the Philippian church will receive from God for their sacrificial gifts.

Our sacrifices of money, time, or passions that we give up for the sake of Christ are a sweet sacrifice to the Lord. They mirror the sacrifices made through the levitical law:

"Burning meat does not have any particular sweetness of smell, but they were called sweet because they typically represented the absolute perfection and obedience of Yahshua HaMashiach [Hebrew name for Anointed one of God]." (rabdavis.org)

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. ~Colossians 3:17, KJV

Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Philippians 4:7

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the fourth chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on the book of Philippians. Thank you for studying with us!!

We won't be continuing the studies next week as I'll resume my regular blogging.



If you are studying along with us this week, you are welcome to leave a link to your site in the Linky tool below. But rather than linking up with a graphic from your blog like we usually do, it would be nice if you could post your profile photo so we can all see each other. If you don't have one--not a problem, another graphic will do. The Linky tool is just a way for all of us to get to know each other, it's not necessary to write a corresponding post.

I'm also posting the button code to the Bible study in hopes that you can add it to your post or sidebar.

And don't forget, tomorrow is Titus 2sdays, so if you're a blogger, come back and link up with your post on marriage, parenting, housekeeping or recipes.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene


For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

If you would like to have Time-Warp Wife delivered to your inbox daily, simply click here: Subscribe to Time-Warp Wife

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Bible Study - Philippians Chapter 3 {And a Link Up!}

Today we continue our study on the book of Philippians, by taking a close look at chapter three. It might work best to open your Bible, read the passage of scripture heading each paragraph, and then study along with the notes I have made. If you don't have a Bible, you can still study along by clicking through the link to read the scripture at Biblegateway.com.

There is also a print button below the post so that you can print a copy for yourself if you like.

Philippians 3:1-2

Paul was speaking to the Greeks here, warning them to beware of those who are still teaching and living by the Levitial Law, including that of circumcision. Circumcision in itself wasn’t the issue, but rather those who put their confidence of salvation in it, thinking that their works would save them.

There are still many Christians today who mix the old law in with the new. They pick and choose parts of the old law and combine it with the new covenant.

No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles. ~ Mark 2:21-22, KJV

Salvation comes through Jesus Christ, and it is by Him that we are made righteous. Our actions are in response to our desire to serve Him, but they don’t define our righteousness.

Compare Galatians 2:11-21, where Paul rebukes Peter because he withdrew himself from the Gentiles when the Jews were present. Pay particular attention to verse 16.

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. ~ Galatians 2:16, KJV

If our actions don’t define our righteousness, does that mean that we can continue in sin? Why or why not?

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Philippians 3:3-4

Circumcision was a Jewish tradition that represented a cutting away of our sinful flesh.

You may remember in previous studies I mentioned that the flesh represents our passions, desires and wants. Walking in the Spirit is following God’s desires rather than our own.

Why do you think that Paul is saying “We are the circumcision which worship God in the spirit?” Compare Romans 8:5-6

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Philippians 3:5-6

Paul establishes himself as an authority on the topic by pointing out that he had met every requirement of the Jewish Law. He also mentions here how he was one who was persecuting the Christian church. We see an example of that in Acts 7:56-60 when Paul (Saul was his Hebrew name) was standing by while Stephen was stoned to death for his faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul also describes himself as being a Pharisee:

Pharisee defined: “They sought for distinction and praise by outward observance of external rites and by outward forms of piety, and such as ceremonial washings, fastings, prayers, and alms giving; and, comparatively negligent of genuine piety, they prided themselves on their fancied good works." (blueletterbible.org)

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead [men's] bones, and of all uncleanness. ~ Matthew 23:27, KJV

What do you think that Jesus meant in the verse above? How does that relate to your walk of faith?

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Philippians 3:7-8

When Paul says that he counts things as “loss” he looks at those things as damaging to his walk with the Lord, and discards them at any and all cost.

I view this term much in the same way as I do the word “jettison,” which is to cast (goods) overboard in order to lighten a vessel or aircraft or to improve its stability in an emergency. (dictionary.com)

In order to reach his destination, he is willing to throw anything overboard so that he might arrive safely at the end of his journey.

Blinded by a heavenly light on the road to Damascus, Paul began his journey of faith with a struggle. There was never a time when his Christian walk was easy one, but he was willing to reevaluate his entire life and turn from everything he had grown to know as truth, to pursue Christ.

Consider your own walk of faith. Are there things that you need to discard? Are there temptations that are holding you back? If so what must you sacrifice and how?

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Philippians 3:9

“Righteousness” is basically our right-standing before God. It’s who we need to be in order to be accepted in His sight.

Faith: Strong's G4102 – pistis – Conviction of the truth.

The righteousness that we have is given to us through faith in Jesus Christ, while the Pharisees were trying to enter heaven by their own righteousness.

This reinforces the parable that Jesus spoke of in Matthew chapter 22. We read about a King [God the Father] who prepared a marriage for his son [Jesus]. The king sent his servants out twice, inviting them [the chosen nation of Israel] to come to the supper. Rather than accepting the invitation, they killed the messengers, and mistreated them.

“Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:

And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:8-14, KJV

Jews and Gentiles have all been called to the marriage supper of the lamb, but only those who accept the righteousness that is through faith in Jesus Christ, are chosen to be His guests.

What do you think it means to have faith in Jesus Christ?

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Philippians 3:10-11

As we participate in the sufferings of Christ, we conform to who He is.

Giving up our will for His, means that we are dying to ourselves and becoming alive in Him. It is a death and resurrection of our souls. This starts here on earth and continues, each time we crucify the flesh and conform to His will. But the completeness of that transformation is yet to come in eternity.

We haven’t completed the race. That final perfection is yet to come.

“Perfect” Strong's G5048 – teleioō - to carry through completely, to accomplish, finish, bring to an end.

Jesus used the word, teleō on the Cross (John 19:30) when he said “It is finished.”

There are two perfections that you will see Paul talking about in this chapter. One is the full perfection that we receive when both our body and soul is redeemed after death. The other perfection is the one that Christians receive here on earth.

When we are forgiven of sin and made righteous through Christ, we have that robe of righteousness that we read about in the parable of Matthew chapter 12. That righteousness makes us perfect in the sight of God, but we will still have a struggle with flesh throughout life that won’t be removed until our final perfection takes place after death.

“According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.” ~ Ephesians 1:4, KJV

Philippians 3:12-14

Paul offers us an analogy of a race. He compares it to the Christian walk, encouraging readers to vigorously pursue their faith. In doing so we need to focus on the finish line and leave the past behind us.

Are there things in your past or your present that are taking your eyes off of Christ?

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Philippians 3:15-16

Paul is instructing the church to continue to walk in the faith. It is one thing to be forgiven and made perfect through Christ, it is yet another to continue the pursuit.

In what ways are you pursuing Christ?

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Philippians 3:17-18

Here Paul says, follow my example and be mindful of the example of each other so that you may grow together in faith. He is stressing the importance of good fellowship, and warning the Philippians that there are many people walking contrary to the faith that could lead them astray.

Jesus spoke about this same thing in the parable of the sower. In Matthew 12:7 He says, “And some [seeds] fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them.”

Esteeming the riches of the world higher than one esteems God, and valuing the riches of this world over heavenly gifts are the very thorns that will choke out our faith. It’s important that we stay in good fellowship with believers, or as the parable puts it in good soil.

Philippians 3:19

Paul talks about people whose “God is their belly.” We see so much of this in the world today, living in a society where people desire to fulfill their own passions above anything else. The commandments of God are useless to them unless they cater to their wants. We are in a world where even “Christians” are picking and choosing the commandments of God to suit their desires.

“And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” ~ Galatians 5:24

Have you ever sacrificed your desires to follow Christ? If so, what did you give up?

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Philippians 3:20

“Conversation” Strong's G4175 – politeuma- meaning our law of constitution, or our citizenship.

Heaven is our home, and this world is just a place that we are passing through. When we realize that truth, we are focused on something eternal rather than the here and now.

Philippians 3:21

Once we pass from this world, the perfection of our body and soul will be complete. Our struggle with the flesh will be done.

How does this knowledge change your outlook on life, or does it?

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Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Philippians 3:13-14

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the second chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on chapter three. Come back next Monday for chapter 4!




If you are studying along with us this week, you are welcome to leave a link to your site in the Linky tool below. But rather than linking up with a graphic from your blog like we usually do, it would be nice if you could post your profile photo so we can all see each other. If you don't have one--not a problem, another graphic will do. The Linky tool is just a way for all of us to get to know each other, it's not necessary to write a corresponding post.

I'm also posting the button code to the Bible study in hopes that you can add it to your post or sidebar.

And don't forget, tomorrow is Titus 2sdays, so if you're a blogger, come back and link up with your post on marriage, parenting, housekeeping or recipes.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene


For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

If you would like to have Time-Warp Wife delivered to your inbox daily, simply click here: Subscribe to Time-Warp Wife

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Bible Study - Philippians Chapter 2 {and a Link up!}

Today we continue our study on the book of Philippians, by taking a close look at chapter two. It might work best to open your Bible, read the passage of scripture heading each paragraph, and then study along with the notes I have made. If you don't have a Bible, you can still study along by clicking through the link to read the scripture at Biblegateway.com.

There is also a print button below the post so that you can print a copy for yourself if you like.

Philippians 2:1-3

You will often see the word “bowels” used in scripture, as in “bowels of mercies” seen here. This word is literally translated bowels (or intestines) as we know it. But to the Greeks it was an expression of speech that reflected deep emotion. Similar to when we say, “From the bottom of my heart.”

He was urging the church to be united in faith and brotherly love (agapē). To be humble and to put others before themselves.

Philippians 2:4-7

This is such an interesting piece of scripture, and one that we should study to learn from. The word "robbery" found in verse six is:

Strong's G725 – harpagmos, a thing to be seized upon or to be held fast, retained.

So we learn that while Jesus was in the form of God, He didn’t look at being equal (in quantity or quality) to God as His goal. His goal was--and our goal always should be--to please the Father through every thing that He did.

Jesus emptied himself of this power by choice, and became a servant of man.

Servant - Strong's G1401 – doulos, devoted to another to the disregard of one's own interests.

That word servant and its Greek translation of doulos, reminds me of our word “doula” which is a labor and delivery assistant. During the time of labor all attention is given to the birth of new life. In Old Testament times the doula was a female slave.

Why would Paul urge the church to have this same mindset of humility? Why is it important for Christians to live this way?

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Philippians 2:8

Here we read that Jesus became obedient unto death. It’s heartbreaking when you study this verse deeply.

Obedient unto death:

Death - Strong's G2288 – thanatos. The translation of this word is very dark: in the widest sense, death comprising all the miseries arising from sin, as well physical death as the loss of a life consecrated to God and blessed in him on earth, to be followed by wretchedness in hell.

Even the death of the cross:

And death of the cross, referring to the cruel punishment that criminals were given in those days as they were beaten, and then hung and nailed to stakes in the ground.

Knowing all of this, Jesus still chose to empty himself of His own wants and desires to take on this death. Everything that He did points to the fact that He was driven by a love for the Father.

Are there any wants or desires that are holding you back in your walk with the Lord? If so, what should you change?

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Philippians 2:9-11

Because of this obedience, the Father gave Jesus a majestic title that surpasses that of any, so that every soul in heaven and hell would call Him Lord.

Lord - Strong's G2962 – kyrios, meaning he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding.

When one accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior, what do you think that means?

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Philippians 2:12

Having a fear for your salvation, is understanding that sin lies at our door and could seize us at any moment. We need to be aware of that danger, and understand how powerful temptation can be.

For one to say, "I'll sin today and repent tomorrow," shows that they don't realize the power that temptation has to overcome a believer.

"But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death." ~ James 1:14

Enticement is a dangerous thing. It doesn't mean that we are attracted to something we want, or that we desire to have it. Enticement signifies that we have been ensnared and deceived by our lust.

For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. ~ Isaiah 66:2

Was there ever an instance when you or someone you know stepped into temptation and as a result fell away from the faith? How might that have been prevented?

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Philippians 2:13-14

The power to do good comes from God, but how and if you choose to use that power depends on you. God doesn’t just want us to “do” good for His kingdom, He wants us to “desire” to do His work.

Murmurings and disputing have everything to do with our attitude. Both words used in this verse refer to our thought patterns.

Murmurings - Strong's G1112 – goggysmos, a secret displeasure not openly avowed. Dispute - Strong's G1261 – dialogismos, the thinking of a man deliberating with himself a thought, inward reasoning. [inward dialogue]

Philippians 2:15-16

Harmless – “pure” as in a pure wine or metal (Strong's)

This means that our thoughts are pure and not mingled with anger, resentment or evil.

Perverse - Strong's G1294 - diastrephōto distort, turn aside. To oppose, plot against the saving purposes and plans of God.

In the midst of a society that strives to destroy the plans of God.

Shining as light in the world is literally translated as stars in the universe. That is such a beautiful way of saying it.

Philippians 2:17-18

Here we see the theme of joy continue. Paul was living a sacrificial life for the furtherance, but because he had a deep desire to please God he was able to rejoice through his trials.

Philippians 2:19-24

Paul would send Timothy to the church in Philippi, knowing that Timothy was faith-focused in the same way that Paul was. Paul was confident in Timothy’s abilities enough to trust him with a new church.

Look up Acts 16:1-5. What four things do we learn about Timothy?

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Philippians 2:25-30

Epaphroditus had one of the most important jobs in the history. He delivered a letter to the church in Philippi that was to become a part of the most sacred book of all time—the Bible.

You see the true compassion of this man in this verse, “is distressed because you heard he was ill.” That’s a true reflection of someone who is more concerned about others than he was about himself. He wasn’t distressed that he was ill, he was distressed that they knew.

What four things do you learn about the character of Epaphroditus from these verses?

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Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Philippians 2:5-7

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the second chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on chapter two. Come back next Monday for chapter 3!




If you are studying along with us this week, you are welcome to leave a link to your site in the Linky tool below. But rather than linking up with a graphic from your blog like we usually do, it would be nice if you could post your profile photo so we can all see each other. If you don't have one--not a problem, another graphic will do. The Linky tool is just a way for all of us to get to know each other, it's not necessary to write a corresponding post.

I'm also posting the button code to the Bible study in hopes that you can add it to your post or sidebar.

And don't forget, tomorrow is Titus 2sdays, so if you're a blogger, come back and link up with your post on marriage, parenting, housekeeping or recipes.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene


For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

If you would like to have Time-Warp Wife delivered to your inbox daily, simply click here: Subscribe to Time-Warp Wife

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Bible Study - Philippians Chapter 1 {And a Link Up!}

Philippians1:1-6

Introduction:

Paul was an apostle, not one of the original 12 disciples.

Latin word for disciple is discipulus, or pupil.

Apostle comes from the Greek word apostolos, meaning to delegate.

The difference between the two is that a disciple is a pupil or a student, while an apostle is delegated for a purpose--Paul’s purpose being that of bringing Christ to the Greeks.

Who Paul was is well summed up in these verses:

“And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. ~ 1 Corinthians 15:8-10

This statement is the big difference between self righteous people and Paul. A self righteous person focuses on the good they do, Paul focused on ridding his life of sin. He saw his sin, which made him different from those who saw their goodness. His over-abundance of sin put things into perspective for him, so that he lived his life in a very humble manner.

Timothy was a follower of Paul’s. Paul was his mentor and spiritual leader. His grandmother was Lois, and his mother was Eunice, both referred to in scripture as women with sincere faith.

In a letter to Timothy from Paul, he mentioned that Timothy had “frequent illnesses” (1 Timothy 5:23).

Pilippi was a city in Greece. Paul founded the church in Philippi during his second missionary journey, Acts 16:11.

The theme of this book is joy, which is why it’s an exciting book to study. Throughout the book Paul refers to the joy that is available to all Christians.

Philippians 1:7

Paul says, “You are partakers of my grace.” It was Paul’s mission to speak to the Greeks, that is “The Gentiles” who were brought in to the new covenant through the death of Jesus Christ.

“If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root.” ~ Romans 11:17

Since Philippi was Roman colony in Greece, we can compare this verse with understanding: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” ~ Romans 1:16

Paul is offering the grace of God to all of the believers at Philippi without exception.

Philippians1:8-10

Because God took a Pharisee and transformed his life completely, Paul could see himself in non-believers, and felt affection for them. Once Christ showed him the truth, he saw just how lost he once was. He had a heart for the Greeks because some of the Jews in those days weren’t ready to accept the fact that the gospel of Jesus Christ was for ALL men. Paul knew differently and had a passion to reach them with the gospel.

When Paul says that your “love” may abound in knowledge and judgment, he is pointing out that everything we do should stem from a deep love for the Father and mankind. Our knowledge and understanding of the scripture is nothing without an intimate relationship with Christ.

It’s with that knowledge that we are then able to discern right from wrong, and likewise choose right from wrong. Love for the Father is what makes a moral transformation different from a spiritual one.

Consider the good that you do. Does it stem from a love for God, or a desire to be good?

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Philippians1:11

Here Paul talks about being filled with righteousness:

What exactly is righteousness? Here is a link to www.dictionary.com

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Why does Paul say that the fruits of righteousness are by Jesus Christ? (Compare Romans 4:11)

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Philippians1:12-17

Because Paul was imprisoned and on trial before Ceasar’s Palace in a Roman court, he is saying that it was a good thing, because through it the message of Gospel was further spread. Whether people were against him or for him, the message was being heard.

What example can you take from that?

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Philippians1:18-19

Paul is likely the most optimistic person in history aside from Jesus Christ himself. Whether he was rich or poor, imprisoned or free, sick or healthy, he found a reason to be both content in his situation and to rejoice in it.

In this section we start to see the theme of joy unfolding in the book of Philippians.

Notice the word Paul uses here is “rejoice,” Strong's G5463 – chairō, to rejoice exceedingly.

The origin of the word rejoice means “to enjoy the possession of.” So it’s more than just being content, it’s embracing our situation with a heightened sense of joy.

Consider difficult situations in your life. Are there any trials that you are struggling to rejoice in?


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Philippians1:20-21

Remember the verse, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?” (1 Corinthians 15:55). Here we see living proof of that victory in the life of Paul who in verse 21 says, “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Death doesn’t have dominion over those who are in Christ Jesus, nor does pending death, when we believe that being away from this world is better than being in it.
Philippians1:22-26

Paul explains that dying is of benefit to one’s self, while living benefits those around us. That is so true when you consider those who grieve at the loss of a loved one. But more so, every day that God gives us is yet another chance to win souls for eternity. Our focus should always remain on doing the will of the Father rather than living for our own gratification.

If you’ve ever thought that your life isn’t worth living, think again. There is so much to be done for the furtherance of the gospel, all you have to do is be ready and willing when the opportunity comes. Or better yet, step out and create opportunities to share your faith.

Can you think of any way that you might be able to share your faith today?

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Philippians1:27

If you are reading a King James Version of the Bible, you will often come across the word “conversation.” More often than not it is referring to ones conduct or lifestyle. Here we see Strong's G4176 – politeuomai, meaning, to avail one's self of or recognize the laws [of Jesus Christ.]
Philippians1:28-29

I love this verse. He is empowering the Philippian church with the instruction to stand firm against those who oppose the gospel, and those who set themselves against us. They see it as tearing us down, but to us it is counted as a blessing for which we will one day receive a reward.

If we follow Christ, we will be persecuted for our faith, because God’s wisdom can’t be understood by mankind. Those who walk in faith choose the wisdom of God over theirs, which means that it isn’t always the most comfortable path to walk.

Have you been persecuted for your faith? If so, what comfort do you find in these verses?

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Philippians1:30

Paul closes this chapter with the use of a very interesting word: “Having the same conflict which you saw in me.” Strong's G73 – agōn, meaning assembly. An assembly to the Greeks was in some ways like our “stadiums” it was a place where they gathered to watch contests and games. In Paul’s writing you will often notice that he references athletes and sports. It’s a good analogy to use when describing our fight for the gospel.

Optional homework for the week:

Memorize Philippians 1:21

Underline some of the scriptures that stood out to you and add cross references for future study.

Read the first chapter again with some of the lessons in mind.

That closes our study on chapter one. Come back next Monday for chapter 2!




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You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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