For an epistle of only 104 verses – four brief chapters –
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians is amazingly profound. At one level, it is a
poignant epistle from a jailed apostle to a beloved supporting church. At
another, it contains an exhilarating hymn of Christ’s humility and exaltation,
and offers a glimpse into Paul’s intense passion to know Christ.
From the standpoint of material to develop discipleship,
Philippians is rich. Paul:
Models how to bear suffering
without self-pity,
Describes the immediacy of
Christ’s presence at death,
Offers one of the most
important Christological passages in the Bible,
Urges us to live holy lives
to shine like stars in a dark world,
Presses us towards the goal
of fulfilling God’s call in our lives,
Teaches us how to rejoice,
how to pray, how to find peace, and
Explains why we can trust
God to meet our every need with abundance.
Philippians is inspiring, warming, challenging,
encouraging. It’s an upbeat letter, full of joy and rejoicing. But the lessons
of faith and discipleship it teaches are not just “feel-goods.” They are deep,
enduring perspectives on how to face problems, stress, and struggle – and grow
through them, rather than wilting under the pressure. Philippians is powerful
stuff!
This volume explores Philippians in nine lessons.
Thought-provoking discussion questions make it a useful tool for personal
enrichment, small groups, and classes. Extensive footnotes assist teachers and
preachers with background research for sermon preparation.
Here's the basic table of contents:
Preface
3
Table of Contents
4
Abbreviations and References
9
Introduction to Philippians
11
1.
Approve What Is Excellent (1:1-11)
20
2.
Struggles that Advance the Gospel (1:12-30)
30
3.
He Emptied Himself (2:1-11)
44
4.
God Is at Work in You (2:12-18)
60
5.
Christian Character: Timothy and Epaphroditus (2:19-30)
69
6.
That I May Know Him (3:1-11)
79
7.
Pressing Toward the Goal (3:12-4:1)
92
8.
Rejoice in the Lord Always (4:1-9)
104
9.
A Partnership in Giving and Receiving (4:10-23)
115
Appendix
1. The Nicene Creed
126
Appendix
2: Participant Handouts for Classes and Groups
Galatians Bible Study
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Lamb of God
