Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Final Thoughts

Well, here's the study all linked up:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 20 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

I have to say, now that we're through it, that that was one of the most difficult studies I've done to date. Not necessarily from the study itself, but from life. Many days I didn't get a chance to sit down and work on it until late at night, and I would be typing the post as I fought to keep my eyes open. When I managed to sit down and type at a decent hour, I found myself fighting a headache...cause unknown.

I had to work to get that study up.

Generally speaking, having to battle to do something usually means one of two things:
1) I'm out of God's timing/working on my own strength or
2) I'm doing what I should be doing, and the Enemy is fighting it.

Trouble is, I can't always tell the difference.

What did I learn from the study?

I learned not to take anything for granted. Philippians is a short little book and I love it, so I thought it would be an easy study to do to kind of ease back into posting Bible studies. It wasn't. I'm not sure I really did justice to the book, because I was fighting such a battle to get the studies posted. The spark of insight that I found as I did the studies that I posted earlier (they're on the sidebar) seemed to me to be conspicuously absent from this one. Yes, we covered the material and yes, we did discuss some important points, but...it just didn't seem to come up to the earlier studies.

So where does that leave me with the concept of posting Bible studies? I'm not sure; maybe posting a study just because I'm missing teaching a Bible study isn't a good enough reason to do one; maybe I should wait until God puts a burden on me.

Or, maybe I need to just fight the battle and not let the Enemy discourage me.

Obviously, I need to do some prayin' and some listenin' before I even figure out what the issue was here...then I'll be able to see where to go next.

Anyway, for those of you who hung with me and read the posts...thank you! I pray the Holy Spirit used something there to minister to you, independently of anything I wrote. God's good like that. ;)

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Lesson 7

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi
Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

1. Finally... Phil. 4:8-9
I split between last week's lesson and this week's at verse 8 because it begins with the word 'Finally'. Seemed like a good way to start the final part of the study.

But, as I've read and re-read the passage, I've realized verses 8 - 9 probably should've been included with last week's discussion. Paul really isn't summing up his letter at this point, he's summing up his discussion of 'living according to the pattern we gave you' (3: 17).

And, you know, he really does summarize it well. In a nutshell, living as a citizen of the Kingdom of God boils down to disciplining our thinking, and putting into practice those things we have learned..what we have heard from and observed in our spiritual leaders. Put that with the previous verses, about living in joy and turning all our issues over to God, and we have the following instructions:

Don't worry about anything; God is near and you can ask Him for what you need. Think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Put into practice the things you have learned, received, or observed from or in the teachers/leaders God has given you.
At first, I thought it was odd that Paul didn't say anything about paying careful attention to the Spirit, but then I realized that he covered that...and a whole lot of other stuff...in saying 'put into practice what you have seen in me.' Paul's whole life was lived in close relationship with and obedience to the Spirit of God.
The Philippians who read this letter would know from watching Paul live amongst them how he followed God.

Living according to that pattern will put us in the constant presence of the God of peace, and the peace He gives will protect our hearts and minds.

2. Thank You! Phil. 4:10 - 19

Now Paul actually does begin the wrap up of his letter. So far he hasn't mentioned the gift from the Philippians, so he does so now.

But look; he's careful to word it such that they don't feel obligated to support him...and gives us a great example to follow in the process.

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances, he says in verse 11, and he states in verse 12, I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.

In verse 13, he shares the secret: I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

It's interesting that, in this context, the 'everything' that Paul is referring to isn't necessarily undertaking great projects, or facing a difficult or dangerous task...it's living everyday in unpredictable and often uncomfortable or even physically difficult conditions while maintaining the lifestyle he had just described.

Nevertheless, he is grateful for the gift that the folks from Philippi have sent...and not just the gift that Epaphroditus brought, but other gifts that they have sent as well. The gift from Epaprhoditus was just the most recent installment in the financial support the folks at Philippi have been providing to Paul. His joy, though, is that they are sacrificing for the kingdom of God and will get a reward for what they have done. Paul hasn't asked for support, yet they have given it...what Paul states is 'a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.' They have helped supply Paul's needs; and Paul promises them that their needs will be supplied as well (v.19)

3)Benediction 4:10 - 23

Paul closes his letter with greetings for all the believers at Philippi, relaying greetings also from 'all the saints, especially those who belong to Caesar's household.' Now, remember that 'those who belong to Caesar's household' were likely folks Paul himself had led to the faith....just as he had been led the Philippian believers to faith years earlier. They shared a common spiritual father in Paul.

Finally, he blesses them with the grace of Jesus.

Now, I really believe the reason this letter is in the canon of Scripture is because these instructions and promises and encouragements are not just for the people of Philippi, but for all who believe. If it had been a personal letter with limited applications, it would not have been preserved for us to read and study.

We haven't given to Paul specifically, as the Philippians did, but I think any time we give to support those who labor in the kingdom we are identifying with the Philippians and their support of Paul. We tend to forget that the folks mentioned in the Bible were real people, with the same kinds of issues and emotions that we have, but we can't go so far into applying the Scripture to the specific people that we lose sight of the fact that the kingdom principles also apply to all believers. Paul really is writing to us, too.

Things to think about: In what areas of my life am I discontent? How can I put into practice the things Paul has instructed in order to learn the secret of being content in all circumstances?

Whom do I know who is working in the kingdom and could use the blessing of unexpected support? What support could I give them...volunteer time, financial assistance, an encouraging visit, or something else? What steps do I need to take to make that happen?

I'll link everything up next week with a few comments about the study as a whole.

The Study so far:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 20 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Lesson 6

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi

Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven

When I was a Sunday School teacher in my former church, one of the things that bugged me was that, according to the material we used, each lesson I was to teach was to be completely self-contained. A key element from the scripture allotted for that week's study would be expounded upon, without regard to how that passage fit into the context of the whole book. It would be easy to do that with this passage; there's some good stuff in here. But I still think that you really can't isolate a scripture from its context...you lose some of the application.

1) Follow Paul's Example. (3:17 - 4:1)
Paul didn't start the topic fresh at verse 3:17; it is a continuation of his discussion that we looked at last week. Join with others in following my example...live according to the pattern we gave you. The example Paul is referring to is, of course, the example of his life they watched as he lived and ministered amongst them, but he has reiterated it in the passage we looked at last week, in 3: 7 - 14: Counting all his works of righteousness as rubbish, forgetting past achievements, he focuses on Jesus and continues to press on towards what Christ has called him to do/receive.

He contrasts this with the lifestyle of those who do not do this...those who set themselves opposed to the cross of Jesus.

Look at how Paul describes such people: Their destiny is destruction no matter how things appear now, the ultimate fate of those who do not follow Jesus is...destruction; their god is their stomach - they are ruled by their appetites, their glory is in their shame - their value system is messed up, Their mind is on earthly things- their priorities are wrong.

But, Paul says, one who believes in and follows Jesus is a citizen of heaven...and we are not headed for destruction, but for transformation.

That, Paul says, once again referencing his example, is how we stand firm in Christ.

2) Live in agreement (4:2 - 3)
Apparently in Epaphroditus' news about Philippi, he mentioned there were a couple of ladies who were having trouble getting along. Paul is grieved over this; no doubt he even had these two women in mind as he dictated the first part of Chapter 2. But now he's specific, asking them by name to agree with each other. He even asks the rest of the body in Philippi to help them resolve their differences. No mention of taking sides, or determining who's right and who's wrong. Just - agree. Agree to disagree, if necessary, but don't cause division in the body.

3)Pursue Peace (4:4 - 7)
Now Paul gives the recipe, if you will, for living guarded by God's peace. First, he says, rejoice! Always rejoice! But for the full impact of the next phrase, I'm pulling out the Amplified, since the KJV and the NIV use different words: Let all men know and perceive your unselfishness - your considerateness, your forbearing spirit.. The Amplified shows a clear connection to Paul's earlier exhortations in chapter 2. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves (2:3).
Next, a reminder that God is near, so we can easily reach Him. Therefore, we shouldn't worry about anything, but, via prayer and with thanksgiving, tell Him what we need.

And, when we do those things, we will have the peace of God in our lives, guarding our hearts and minds.

If I ask myself, 'From what does my heart and mind need to be guarded?' I can come up with two categories of threats: those from the outside, and those from the inside. Outside threats would be attacks and enticements (temptations) from the enemy; inside threats would be my own selfish desires and personal ambitions. But if God's peace is operating in my life, I am protected in all those areas.

Things to think about: In what areas of my life am I pursuing my own agenda or own appetites? What needs am I clinging to myself, looking for answers in my own strength, instead of turning them completely over to God and trusting Him to do what is really best for me?


The Study so far:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 20 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Lesson 5

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi

Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism


It's hard for us to remember now, but for the first hundred years or so Christianity was considered to be sect of Judaism. The word 'Christian' was actually a derogatory term...kinda the rough equivalent of 'Jesus Freak' today. One of the earliest controversies in the church was over whether or not Gentiles who wanted to follow Jesus should become Jews first. The church leaders met in Jerusalem to discuss the issue, and, after testimonies from Paul and Peter about how the Spirit moved among the Gentiles, the consensus was to '...not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.' (Acts 15:19)

However, there were number of folks in those early years who were convinced that the Gentiles had to be circumcised and follow the Law before they could truly become followers of Christ. These folks would follow behind Paul and teach in the cities he'd just left, trying to convince the newly believing Gentiles that they had to follow the Law. Paul's harshest words are always for these folks, and, here in the passage we're studying today, he warns his friends in Philippi to be on the lookout for anyone who teaches that circumcision is a requirement for salvation.

His argument against that teaching basically comes from his own testimony.
1) What Paul Had (3:1 - 6)
Back in the day, Paul had as much reason as (actually, more than) anyone else to think that his own works had given him some sort of standing in front of God. Look at his earthly credentials: circumcised on his eighth day, he was a member of the tribe of Benjamin...the only tribe that stayed with Judah when the country split. He was a Pharisee in doctrine, even going so far as to persecute followers of Christ in his zeal for the law. Very few could compare themselves favorably to Paul's standard.

2) What Paul Decided (3:7 - 14)

But...all of that he considers worthless now. The righteousness that he has doesn't come from strict adherence to the Law, but through Christ. His objective in living now is just to do what Jesus wants him to do...and he doesn't even think he's doing that completely. In fact, he's forgotten all his former achievements and just keeps pushing himself farther into his commitment to and his relationship with Jesus.

The implication is, of course, that if Paul, who had every reason to put hope in his obedience to the Law, considered himself in need of the grace of God, thre would be no value in the Gentiles trying to pursue righteousness through following the Law.

3) What Paul Expects (3::15 - 16)
Paul plainly says that a mature believer will see that pursuing God by strict obedience to a set of rules is pointless, but he realizes that not everyone will agree with him, so he says something amazing:
"And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you."

How much contention in the body of Christ would be nonexistent if we lived by that statement? If we really trusted God to straighten out our differences, instead of us trying to browbeat folks into agreement? Granted, there are some things that are foundational to the faith, that we really can't compromise on, but there are a lot of particulars that aren't so clear cut. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide us into all truth (John 16:13); there is a point at which we must agree to disagree over minor things (even what those minor things are, perhaps?) and trust that the Holy Spirit will straighten things out.

Keep in mind, this might mean changing the person who doesn't agree with me...or it might mean the Holy Spirit reveals something to me and changes me. But either way, He'll straighten it out.

Live up to what we've already attained, he says (v. 16),in effect restating his thought from 1:27 - live a life worthy of the Gospel.

Things to consider: In what areas am I trying to earn God's approval by following rules? How have I substituted rules for relationship? What areas of conflict do I need to turn over to God to correct the mistakes...and am I willing to let Him correct me? Could *my* position be in error?

The Study so far:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Lesson 4

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi

Philippians 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers.

After the powerful teaching in the first part of the chapter, Paul takes a bit of an interlude to make some personal observations and discuss his plans. Sort of a breather before he jumps into heavy stuff again in the next chapter.

But this passage is precious, because it shows Paul's relationships...and the examples the young men who were with him were setting for those who paid attention.

Actually, I goofed in the syllabus; the first two verses of today's passage fit more logically with last week's discussion...but I didn't catch that as I skimmed through to divide things up. So I'll mention it and then move on to the topic of the day...faithfulness.

I should've noticed that verse 17 starts with the word 'But', which means it needs to be connected to the previous thought so the contrast could be seen. But I missed it. Anyway.

In the previous verses, Paul had just exhorted the Philippians to maintain a shining testimony, so that he could show that his labor was not for nothing. BUT, he adds in verse 17, even if his life is winding to its end (my take on 'being poured out like a drink offering), he's rejoicing, because of the sacrifice and service the Philippians are exhibiting to him; so he expects them to be glad and rejoice with him...whatever happens (1:27).

Now, on to verses 19 - 29.

Paul's first subject is Timothy. Timothy has been with Paul in Rome for a while now, writing the letters that Paul dictates, running errands...just making Paul's life as a prisoner in Rome more tolerable.

But Paul is anxious for news from his friends in Philippi, so he is planning to send Timothy to them 'as soon as I see how things go with me.' (v.23)

Timothy, Paul says, is unique in his genuine interest in the Philippians. The Philippians know Timothy, and know how he has served Paul as a son would serve his father. Since sending Timothy is the next best thing to Paul going to Philippi himself,Paul is going to watch for a chance to send Timothy over, even though he does hope to go himself in the near future. Timothy has proven himself, not only to Paul, but to the church at Philippi. Timothy is such a trusted, faithful envoy that such a trip would not only bless Paul, when he brings back news, but it would also bless the Philippians, as being a symbol of Paul's concern for them and interest in them.

The second young man, Epaphroditus, is to be sent back immediately (likely carrying the epistle back with him). Epaphroditus had apparently just recovered from a serious illness -- in Paul's words, he nearly died -- and, even though he's better, word has reached them that the Philippians had heard of his illness and were quite concerned.

No Skyping in those days...the only way the folks at Philippi could truly be assured as to Epaphroditus's health would be for him to go to them himself. Now that he'd recovered, Epaphroditus had evidently been assisting Timothy in caring for Paul's needs (v. 25), helping Paul on behalf of the Philippians (v. 30). But he'd been sick, he missed his people, and they were worried about him. So Paul is sending him home...and taking the opportunity to send a letter with him.

On first glance, this seems to be just some personal chit-chat in the middle of the letter. We've heard the names, but we don't really *know* the people involved...it's not written to *us*...so why don't we just skim over it and get to the teaching in chapter three?

Because these men have something to teach us. They were both faithful to their assignments...even in times of personal difficulty. Paul's lament in verse 21 that 'everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ' did not apply to Timothy and Epaphroditus. These fellows not only served, they served well. They made personal sacrifices. They had no personal ambition.

And Paul thought very highly of both of them. God used both of them; Timothy went on to pastor churches.

And they began by being servants who did not consider their own interests.

Definitely a lesson for me.

A Note: I don't know if you've been following it or not, but Lysa TerKereust has been doing a little discussion of Philippians on the Proverbs 31 ministries blog (linked on the sidebar) this past week. Check it out if you haven't.

The Study so far:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Lesson 3

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi
Philippians 2: 1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility

Can I just say, before I get started with this, that Phil. 2:1-11 is one of my favorite Scripture passages?

1. Humility through Unity Phil. 2: 1 - 4
Actually, I think this ties in with what we looked at last week -- conducting oneself in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ (Phil. 1:27). I didn't hit the particulars of that too hard last Friday, let me review them again:
- stand firm in one spirit
- contend as one for the faith of the Gospel
-not frightened by opposition.

If you look at that short list, you'll see that 2/3 of it refers to being united; further discussion of that concept opens chapter 2.

Of course, such unity with people flows out of unity with Christ, and Paul properly places the relationships in that order. But look at how many different ways he describes unity among believers:
- be like-minded
- have the same love
- be one in spirit and purpose
- don't do anything out of conceit or selfish ambition
- consider others better than yourselves
- look after one anothers interests...not just your own

Just the first one will trip me up. Be like minded. That means I need to strive to see things from other people's point of view; I need to consider how they process information and how they perceive the words and actions of people around them. I'm really not entitled to my own opinion.

Ouch. Just sayin'.

But if we really practiced unity...instead of individualism...it would make a huge impact on the way the body of Christ functions.

2. The Example of Christ Phil. 2: 5 - 11
Of course, our pace-setter in this walk is Jesus Himself. He lived a life totally devoid of self-serving or personal ambition; his whole life was lived in unity with and in obedience to the Father...even to the point of death.

But, because he was obedient to that level, he was also rewarded. We need to remember this as well; God doesn't manipulate us around just to see if He can; He moves us and positions us through our obedience into a place of blessing and reward. That's His real goal.

3. The Expression of the Worthy Life Phil. 2:12 - 16
This is where the rubber meets the road; how do we really practice unity?
Obedience!
Verse 13 is a fabulous promise. Look at it closely:
...it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.

See, it is God working in us so that our will lines up with His. In other words, He adjusts our attitude so that we WANT to do what He desires. It becomes less and less of a struggle as we continually move in obedience.

Then he gives them one last principle of unity: The Good Attitude.
Do everything without complaining or arguing

Live a life worthy of the Gospel? If you live w/o complaining or arguing, Paul says, you'll actually stand out like a shining star on a moonless night.

And he points out that if those he has taught will do those things, he will feel like he has accomplished the purpose God had for his life.
Be humble
Be united with the body of Christ
do all things without complaining or arguing.

Such a short list! But such potential impact...

The Study so far:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Lesson 2

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi
Testimony in Time of Suffering: Philippians 1:12-29
1. The Gospel Advances - Phil. 1:12-18a
After his greetings, Paul immediately begins reassuring the Philippians about his condition. Sure, he's imprisoned and in chains, but he is quick to point out that those very circumstances have served to spread the Gospel - even the palace guards have heard the message of Jesus! And other brothers -- those not in prison -- have become more courageous in sharing the Gospel as well. Sure, Paul says, some of those folks weren't preaching from the best motives, but, so long as the Gospel is getting out, he's happy.

What a ministry model. Paul had no turf to guard, no agenda to protect. He didn't care if he got any credit for anything. So long as the Gospel was preached, he was happy. But, beyond that, even though he was shackled, he was actually able to share the Gospel with soldiers...men who otherwise might not have been able to hear it. He didn't complain about his unjust imprisonment; on the contrary, he saw it as an opportunity.
Friends, that's pretty amazing. I've got a long way to grow before I will be at that level. I'm just sayin'.

2. Paul Expects Freedom - Phil. 1: 18b - 25
So, Paul's rejoicing because the Gospel is spreading, and he's also rejoicing because he expects to be released. It's interesting to note that he freely recognizes that release could either be freedom from his prison, or it could be that he is killed for his stand in Christ. But look at what he says about those possibilities:
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. (v. 20)

He's talking about having courage when the executioner comes, if that's the outcome. He even admits in the next verse that it would be gain to him if he dies. But, he recognizes that it would be difficult for the Philippians, who love him, if he dies. So, he says, so long as it is necessary and expedient for him to live, he's sure he will. He even states that he expects to be reunited with them at some point in the future....since they have been praying for him (v. 19).

3)Living the Testimony of Suffering - Phil. 1:27 - 29
Still, Paul cautions them, 'Whatever happens...' He had confidence that he would be restored to them, but he also knew that God's plans might not go that way. He wanted to make sure the believers at Philippi did not get discouraged if he were not released, or, worse, if he were executed.

'Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ,' he instructs them.
Let's look at how he describes a 'manner worthy of the Gospel':
-- stand firm in one spirit
-- contending as one man for the faith
-- not frightened in any way by the opposition

Living this way points to the grace of Christ, which empowers believers to maintain that lifestyle even in the face of suffering. It's a sign to those who oppose the Gospel message. It's the reason Paul's testimony has reached so far from his confinement...and the Philippians, who have shared Paul's struggle, have the same opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Paul's circumstances became a ministry tool; what unfavorable situations are in my life about which I need to shift my paradigm to consider them opportunities? To whom might such a shift testify about God's grace?


The Study so far:
Feb. 5 Intro
Feb. 12 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 19 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 26 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 5 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 12 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 19 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 26 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians - Lesson 1

(Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi)

Philippians 1: 1 - 11 - Affectionate Greetings

1. Paul's affection for the believers at Philippi (1:1 - 8)
Imagine for a moment that you are the Apostle Paul, under house arrest, likely awaiting a trial before Nero, in a city that you've always longed to visit but hadn't had the opportunity. People can come and visit with you a bit, but you are shackled in the house and always attended by a Roman guard. There is no sightseeing, no outings. Your faithful protege, Timothy, is with you and acts as your secretary and errand runner, but most of the friends you have made through years of traveling in ministry seem very far away.

Then, one day, a young man arrives at your door, having traveled from the first city you arrived in after answering the call to go to Macedonia so many years earlier. He brings greetings from the people there and, to your surprise, a monetary gift that will go a long way towards purchasing things to make life more comfortable...like good food. But he's picked up some kind of ailment on his travels, and he arrives very ill. In fact, it's touch-and-go for a bit, but at last he throws off the infection and regains his health and his strength. Now, he can return to his people, and passage is booked on a return ship.

Timothy picks up quill and parchment to write the letter you will dictate for the young man, Epaphroditus by name, to carry back with him. How would you start a letter to these folks who have sacrificed on your behalf and who have supported you in prayer since you met them?

After the opening salutations and traditional greeting, Paul verbally embraces his far away friends. This is how The Message renders his words:
Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. I am so pleased that you have continued on in this with us, believing and proclaiming God's message, from the day you heard it right up to the present.

Paul was overjoyed to hear from his friends, he was overjoyed when he thought about his friends, he was overjoyed when he prayed for his friends. Never mind that he was shut up in the house...he knew their hearts for him and for the ministry of the Gospel and it filled him with joy.

He was so full of joy that he assured them of the confidence that he had that God, who began a good work in them, would carry that work on to completion.
Paul could obviously be referring to their salvation, but he could also be referring to the spread of the Gospel in Europe...that work began in Philppi. As he noted earlier, the Philippians were partners with him in that work, so his encouragement in the ministry would apply to them as well. To be sure, both applications are true. God works in us individually and corporately to complete the work that HE began. What is required from us is not our effort, but our submission.

Paul emphasizes the relationship he had with the folks at Philippi once more, stating that he has them in his heart and they share in God's grace with him, whether he's imprisoned or out in ministry. In fact, he longs for them with the affection of Christ.

Sounds like he misses his friends very much. So, he prays for them often.

2. Paul's prayers for the Philippians 1:9 - 11

This is a very interesting example of how to pray for people. Look at Paul's requests for his friends:
- that their love abound in knowledge and insight
- that they could discern what is best
- that they would be pure and blameless
- that they would be filled with the fruit of righteousness

It's interesting that he didn't pray for their physical well-being or prosperity or personal safety. He prayed for their spiritual lives.

I tell you, I'm challenged to pray this way. Most of my intercession involves praying for safety, or healing, or favor. Not purity and righteousness and abounding love.

But, you know, if love abounds w/knowledge and insight, and discernment as to what is best is operational while we walk pure and blameless, filled with the fruit of righteousness...what more is there to want? Really?

Lord, I don't know the names of all the people that might stumble across this post, but I pray that their love would abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that every one of them would be able to discern what is best, and will be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God

The Study so far:
Feb. 6 Intro
Feb. 13 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 20 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 27 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 6 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 13 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 20 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 27 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Blogging Bible Study: Philippians Intro

You know, when I start these things I don't study them out and then write them up for the blog; I basically just blog my own study. So sometimes I have to say, "You know, I thought I knew something but I was wrong."

That's the case w/the introduction to Philippians. For some reason, I had it fixed in my head that Paul wrote this during his final imprisonment, when he was in the horrible Mamertine Prison.

But, as I read Mr. Scofield's notes, I find I have been mistaken. Paul likely wrote this during his first imprisonment...the house arrest mentioned in Acts 28. So, while Paul was not exactly free, he was not in the miserable state I thought.

But still. It's a remarkable letter from someone whose liberties are restricted and who really does not know what his future holds.

The church in Philippi was Paul's first ministry in Europe, and the believers there loved Paul and were much loved by him. Knowing Paul was imprisoned, the Philippians had taken up a collection for him and sent it to Rome with a young man named Epaphroditus. So Paul wrote the letter as a response to the gift, and sent it back to the Philippians w/ the returning Epaphroditus.

Paul no doubt never guessed that 2000 years later believers would still be reading his instructions and exhortations and testimonies; he may not even realized God had a purpose in the letter at all. But such is the mystery of inspiration...that God used ordinary people to do things with extraordinary impact. So I'll be looking for God's purpose in preserving this letter for us to study today. What is the message for me?

Here's the plan:

Feb. 13 Lesson 1 Phil. 1:1 - 11 Affectionate Greetings
Feb. 20 Lesson 2 Phil. 1:12 - 29 Testimony in a Time of Suffering
Feb. 27 Lesson 3 Phil. 2:1 - 16 Exhortation to Humility
March 6 Lesson 4 Phil. 2:17 - 30 Commendations of Coworkers
March 13 Lesson 5 Phil. 3: 1 - 16 Warnings Regarding Legalism
March 20 Lesson 6 Phil. 3:17 - 4:7 Instruction on Living as Citizens of Heaven
March 27 Lesson 7 Phil. 4:8 - 23 Gratitude for Concerned Support

Now, I may change the emphasis of each lesson after I get into it; this is my general outline.

I'm looking forward to this!

The Next Study: Philippians

Posted by Lisa Laree to Beer Lahai Roi

I can't tell you exactly why I picked Philippians; it just dropped into my spirit one day as I was doing my Bible reading/journal time.

I had hoped to have the syllabus ready to post today, with an intention to start right off, but, well, it's the start of the new year and I'm working in the church accounting office. So.

I kind of expect to be working extra until the board meeting in March. There's just so much to do to close the books, move the files, prepare the reports...well, you know.

So my plan is to go kinda slow; it looks like it's going to be an 8 or 9 week study at the moment, although that could change by the time I get things finalized.

But I'm looking forward to digging into it. Philippians is one of my favorite books in the whole Bible; there's just so much in there, and Paul wrote it in such awful conditions.

So...intro next week! Here we go! ;)