The Joy Book: Philippians
Even though in prison, Paul’s joy could not have been more complete than is demonstrated in this epistle. Remember when Paul founded this church on his second missionary journey? Who were some of the people mentioned at the outset?
Nothing much is mentioned about any specific members (Epaphroditus, Euodia, Syntyche) of the church since Acts 16. As we page through this epistle, I want us to think about our joy in serving our Lord Jesus in our individual lives and ministries.
Let’s go back to Acts 16:11-40 and review the beginnings of this church.
When Paul left Philippi, what feeling did he leave with?
Some years later, Paul pens this book from his time in jail in Rome. Paul opens his letter with two key words that are important to any Christian–>grace and peace. How do the two words fit together? And why was it important for the members at Philippi to hear them from their missionary teacher?
Read Philippians 1:3-11
- Paul tells us that he thanks God each time the church at Philippi crosses his mind. Right now, let’s stop and give thanks for our church, our pastor(s), our teachers, our leaders, and all members as together we proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.
- What makes it possible to pray with joy? Do you always pray with joy? Paul indicates that he prays with joy because of their “partnership” in the gospel.
- What is a partnership? ___________________________
- We know what God brings to the table in a partnership, but what can we be expected to bring?
- _____________________________
- Paul reminds the church that God is all-faithful. How is it stated in verse six?
- What is the “good work” that Paul is talking about here?
- Paul states a longing to be with the Macedonian church of Philippi. But since he is incarcerated, his presence must be in spirit. And so, he prays for them. Verse nine begins his prayer for the church.
- What is the first thing he prays for? _____________________
- As God’s love abounds in our lives, we grow in knowledge and depth of insight. Head knowledge is necessary but only if coupled with what? ______________________
- What does it mean to discern? And how does it apply to a Christian?
- Paul indicates that until Jesus returns for us, we are to be filled with the “fruit of righteousness.”
Read Philippians 1:12-18
- Paul clearly states that he is in chains. What results are mentioned in these verses?
- It appears that Paul is being held captive in some sort of house or palace in Rome. Do you think Paul was preaching to the guards and household servants? What leads you to this conclusion (verses 12-13)?
- Evidently some in Paul’s midst may have had different motivations for preaching the Good News. List the motivations
- ___________________
- ___________________
- ___________________
- For those who harbored envy and were rivalrous, what was the ultimate intention?
Regardless of the motivation, Christ was preached and for that Paul rejoices! So much so that he repeats the statement. We too can rejoice each time we speak the Good News of Christ or speak the name of Jesus.
During the week, think about other biblical instances where JOY or rejoicing was experienced. Go back and read one each day.