10 Nov 2013 ... are biblical mandates that we will all learn and strive to obey by: 1. ..... We, too,
have access to this knowledge and this power, but we may.
Crystal Coast Nazarene Small Group Bible Study Book of Philippians November, 2013
GOD’S PLAN – OUR MISSION
At CCNaz, we believe that it is GOD’S PLAN for everyone to be… Saved – Healed – Delivered – Filled (Luke 4:16-19)
God’s plan leads us to our mission…
The Mission of CCNaz is … “SHARING the Good News of Jesus while GROWING in our faith”. (Acts 1:8; Col. 2:6-7)
Our Mission, “Sharing the Good News of Jesus while Growing in our faith” is mandated by the Word of God. The priorities and methods of our mission form several faces: (Time) investing our time in worship and small groups for spiritual growth; (Talents) using our spiritual gifts and talents to serve others; (Testimony) sharing our testimony, our story of God’s transforming work in our lives with others; (Treasures) honoring God by the giving of our financial resources to build the kingdom of God through CCNaz; (Teachings) by obeying God’s Word in all areas of our lives. These are not separate objectives but an integrated and comprehensive plan to make disciples according to the commands of Jesus. They are biblical mandates that we will all learn and strive to obey by:
1. Making a commitment to an investment of my Time to regular attendance in a Worship service and to become part of a Small Group for spiritual growth.
2. Making a commitment to use my Talents or spiritual gifts to serve God by involvement in a ministry to others in our church, or the outside world 3. Making a commitment to share my Testimony (my story) of God’s transforming work in my life with others 4. Making a commitment to honor God by giving of my Treasures (financial resources; money) to build the kingdom of God through CCNaz. 5. Making a commitment to obedience to the Teaching of God’s Word in all areas of our life.
Book of Philippians: The joy of the Christian experience is the dominant theme running through the book of Philippians. The words "joy" and "rejoice" are used 16 times in the epistle. The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to express his gratitude and affection for the Philippian church, his strongest supporters in ministry. Traditionally, scholars agree that Paul drafted the epistle during his two years of house arrest in Rome. He himself had established the church in Philippi approximately 10 years prior, during his second missionary journey recorded in Acts 16. Thus, his tender love for the believers in Philippi is apparent in this most personal of all Paul's writings. The church had sent gifts to Paul while he was in chains. The gifts were delivered by Epaphroditus, a leader in the Philippian church who ended up assisting Paul with ministry in Rome. At some point while serving with Paul, Epaphroditus became dangerously sick and nearly died. After his recovery, Paul sent Epaphroditus back to Philippi carrying with him the letter to the Philippian church. Besides expressing thanks to the believers in Philippi for their gifts and support, Paul took the opportunity to encourage the church concerning practical matters such as humility and unity. He warned them about "Judiazers" or Jewish legalists and gave instructions on how to live a joyous Christian life. In the pages of Philippians, Paul conveys a powerful message about the secret of contentment. Although he had faced severe hardships, poverty, beatings, illness, and even his current imprisonment, in every circumstance Paul had learned to be content. The source of his joyous contentment was rooted in knowing Jesus Christ: I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him. (Philippians 3:7-9a, NLT). Author of the Book of Philippians: Philippians is one of Paul's four Prison Epistles. Date Written: Most scholars believe the letter was written around AD 62 while Paul was imprisoned in Rome. Written To:
Paul wrote to the body of believers in Philippi with whom he shared a close partnership and special affection. He also addressed the letter to church elders and deacons. Landscape of the Book of Philippians: Under house arrest as a prisoner in Rome, yet full of joy and thankfulness, Paul wrote to encourage his fellow servants living in Philippi. A Roman colony, Philippi was situated in Macedonia, or current-day Northern Greece. The city was named after Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. One of the major trade routes between Europe and Asia, Philippi was a chief commercial center with a mixture of different nationalities, religions and social levels. Founded by Paul in approximately 52 AD, the church in Philippi was made up mostly of Gentiles. Themes in the Book of Philippians: Joy in the Christian life is all about perspective. True joy is not based on circumstances. The key to lasting contentment is found through a relationship with Jesus Christ. This is the divine perspective Paul wanted to communicate in his letter to the Philippians. Christ is the ultimate example for believers. Through following his patterns of humility and sacrifice, we can find joy in all circumstances. Christians can experience joy in suffering, just as Christ suffered: ...he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross. (Philippians 2:8, NLT) Christians can experience joy in service: But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy. (Philippians 2:17-18, NLT) Christians can experience joy in believing: I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. (Philippians 3:9, NLT) Christian can experience joy in giving: I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with Epaphroditus. They are a sweetsmelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. And this same God who takes care of
me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:18-19, NLT) Key Characters in the Book of Philippians: Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus are the major personalities in the book of Philippians. Key Verses: Philippians 2:8-11 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (ESV) Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.(ESV) Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! (NKJV) Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; (NKJV) Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (NKJV) Outline of the Book of Philippians:
Joy in all circumstances, even suffering - Philippians 1. Joy in serving - Philippians 2. Joy in faith - Philippians 3. Joy in giving - Philippians 4.
Permissions: All lesson questions come from Adult Questions for LESSONmaker. New Testament Questions copyright © 1992 by iExalt, Inc. Old Testament Questions copyright © 1994 by iExalt, Inc. Used by permission of WORDsearch. All rights reserved. Database © 2006 WORDsearch Corp.
November 3, 2013 No Confidence in the Flesh - Philippians 3:1-11 (Leaders – keep in mind there will be more material that you will be able to cover in 45 minutes, so pick question and additional information that you want to lead your group in discussing)
1. What did Paul call on believers to do? (3:1) 2. Why did Paul repeat essential truths to the Philippians? (3:1) 3. What sorts of things tend to draw you away from Christ? 4. What did Paul say about certain false teachers? (3:2) 5. Whom did Paul identify as "true"? (3:3) 6. What autobiographical facts did Paul give? (3:4-6) 7. Why do we tend to base our worth as Christians on our performance? 8. Why should our identity and confidence be in the Lord? 9. Why did Paul view his former accomplishments as "rubbish"? (3:8) 10. What do you need to start counting as rubbish for the sake of Christ? 11. What was Paul’s status in Christ? (3:9) 12. What longings did Paul admit to the Philippians? (3:10-11)
13. What hope did Paul express? (3:11)
Additional Thoughts from the Life Application Study Bible 3:1 As a safeguard, Paul reviewed the basics with these believers. The Bible is our safeguard both morally and theologically. When we read it individually and publicly in church, it alerts us to corrections we need to make in our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. 3:2, 3 These "dogs" and "mutilators" were very likely Judaizers—Jewish Christians who wrongly believed that it was essential for Gentiles to follow all the Old Testament Jewish laws, especially submission to the rite of circumcision, in order to receive salvation. Many Judaizers were motivated by spiritual pride. Because they had invested so much time and effort in keeping their laws, they couldn't accept the fact that all their efforts couldn't bring them a step closer to salvation. Paul criticized the Judaizers because they looked at Christianity backward—thinking that what they did (circumcision—cutting or mutilating the flesh) made them believers rather than the free gift of grace given by Christ. What believers do is a result of faith, not a prerequisite to faith. This had been confirmed by the early church leaders at the Jerusalem council 11 years earlier (Acts 15). Who are the Judaizers of our day? They are those who say that people must add something else to simple faith. No person should add anything to Christ's offer of salvation by grace through faith. 3:2, 3 It is easy to place more emphasis on human effort than on internal faith, but God values the attitude of our heart above all else. Don't judge people's spirituality by their fulfillment of duties or by their level of human activity. And don't think that you will satisfy God by feverishly doing his work. God notices all you do for him and will reward you for it, but only if it comes as a loving response to his free gift of salvation. 3:4-6 At first glance, it looks like Paul is boasting about his achievements. But he is actually doing the opposite, showing that human achievements, no matter how impressive, cannot earn a person salvation and eternal life with God. Paul had impressive credentials: upbringing, nationality, family background, inheritance, orthodoxy, activity, and morality (see 2 Corinthians 11; Galatians 1:13-24, for more of his credentials). However, his conversion to faith in Christ (Acts 9) wasn't based on what he had done but on God's grace. Paul did not depend on his deeds to please God, because even the most impressive credentials fall short of God's holy standards. Are you depending on Christian parents, church affiliation, or just being good to make you right with God? Credentials, accomplishments, or reputation cannot earn salvation. Salvation comes only through faith in Christ.
3:5 Paul belonged to the tribe of Benjamin, a heritage greatly esteemed among the Jews. From this tribe had come Israel's first king, Saul (1 Samuel 10:20-24). The tribes of Benjamin and Judah were the only two tribes to return to Israel after the Exile (Ezra 4:1). Paul was also a Pharisee, a member of a very devout Jewish sect that scrupulously kept its own numerous rules in addition to the laws of Moses. Paul explains for these mostly Gentile believers that his Jewish credentials were impeccable. 3:6 Why had Paul, a devout Jewish leader, persecuted the church? Agreeing with the leaders of the religious establishment, Paul had thought that Christianity was heretical and blasphemous. Because Jesus did not meet his expectations of what the Messiah would be like, Paul had assumed that Jesus' claims were false—and therefore wicked. In addition, he had seen Christianity as a political menace because it threatened to disrupt the fragile harmony between the Jews and the Roman government. 3:7 When Paul spoke of "these things," he was referring to his credentials, credits, and successes. After showing that he could beat the Judaizers at their own game (being proud of who they were and what they had done), Paul showed that it was the wrong game. Be careful of considering past achievements so important that they get in the way of your relationship with Christ. 3:8 After Paul considered everything he had accomplished in his life, he decided to write it all off as "worthless" when compared with the greatness of knowing Christ. We should value our relationship with Christ as more important than anything else. To know Christ should be our ultimate goal. Yet how do we know him better? (1) Study the life of Christ in the Gospels. See how Christ lived and responded to people (Matthew 11:29). (2) Study all the New Testament references to Christ (Colossians 1:15-2:15). (3) As you worship and pray, let the Holy Spirit remind you of Christ's words (John 14:26). (4) Take up Christ's mission to preach the gospel and learn from his sufferings (Matthew 28:19; Philippians 3:10). To do these things, however, may mean that you must make major changes in your thinking and in your lifestyle. Are you willing to change you rvalues in order to know Christ better? Will you fix or rearrange your crowded schedule in order to set aside a few minutes each day for prayer and Bible study? Will you change some of your plans, goals, and desires in order to conform with what you learn about Christ? Whatever you must change or give up, having Christ and becoming one with him will be more than worth the sacrifice. 3:9 No amount of law keeping, self-improvement, discipline, or religious effort can make us right with God. Righteousness comes only from God, and we are made righteous (receive right standing with him) by trusting in Christ. He exchanges our sin and shortcomings for his complete righteousness. See 2 Corinthians 5:21 for more on Christ's gift of righteousness. 3:9, 10 Paul gave up everything—family, friendship, and freedom—in order to know Christ and his resurrection power. We, too, have access to this knowledge and this power, but we may have to make sacrifices to enjoy it fully. What are you willing to give up in order to know Christ?
A crowded schedule in order to set aside a few minutes each day for prayer and Bible study? Your friend's approval? Some of your plans or pleasures? Whatever it is, knowing Christ is more than worth the sacrifice. 3:10 When we become one with Christ by trusting in him, we experience the power that raised him from the dead. That same mighty power will help us live morally renewed and regenerated lives. But before we can walk in newness of life, we must die to sin. Just as the Resurrection gives us Christ's power to live for him, his crucifixion marks the death of our old sinful nature. We can't know the victory of the Resurrection without personally applying the Crucifixion. 3:11 When Paul wrote, "so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead," he was not implying uncertainty or doubt. He was unsure of the way that he would meet God, whether by execution or by natural death. He did not doubt that he would be raised, but attainment of it was within God's power and not his own. 3:11 Just as Christ was exalted after his resurrection, so we will one day share Christ's glory (Revelation 22:1-7). Paul knew that he might die soon, but he had faith that he would be raised to life again.
November 10, 2013 Pressing on Toward the Goal - Philippians 3:12-4:1 (Leaders – keep in mind there will be more material that you will be able to cover in 45 minutes, so pick question and additional information that you want to lead your group in discussing) 1. What was Paul’s testimony? (3:12-14) 2. In what ways did Paul’s spiritual life resemble the discipline of a runner? (3:12-14) 3. What kind of race are you running for Christ? 4. What was Paul’s view of the past? (3:13) 5. What was Paul’s goal? (3:14) 6. How did Paul call the Philippians to share his view? (3:15) 7. What did Paul hope for the believers who disagreed with him? (3:15) 8. What was Paul’s plea to the Philippians? (3:16) 9. How did Paul want believers to imitate him? (3:17) 10. How can you imitate Paul’s life and example? 11. How can Christ help you stay on track and reach the goal? 12. How did Paul describe God’s enemies? (3:18-19)
13. What kind of opposition do you face in your struggle to live as a Christian? 14. Where did the Philippian Christians have their citizenship? (3:20) 15. Whom did the Philippian believers eagerly await? (3:20) 16. What characterizes citizens of heaven? (3:21)
Additional Thoughts from the Life Application Study Bible 3:12-14 Paul said that his goal was to know Christ, to be like Christ, and to be all Christ had in mind for him. This goal took all of Paul's energies. This is a helpful example for us. We should not let anything take our eyes off our goal—knowing Christ. With the single-mindedness of an athlete in training, we must lay aside everything harmful and forsake anything that may distract us from being effective Christians. What is holding you back? 3:13, 14 Paul had reason to forget the past—he had held the coats of those who had stoned Stephen, the first Christian martyr (Acts 7:57, 58, Paul is called Saul here). We have all done things for which we are ashamed, and we live in the tension of what we have been and what we want to be. Because our hope is in Christ, however, we can let go of past guilt and look forward to what God will help us become. Don't dwell on your past. Instead, grow in the knowledge of God by concentrating on your relationship with him now. Realize that you are forgiven, and then move on to a life of faith and obedience. Look forward to a fuller and more meaningful life because of your hope in Christ. 3:15, 16 Sometimes trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves us drained and discouraged. We may feel so far from perfect that we think we can never please God with our life. Paul used perfection (3:12) to mean mature or complete, not flawless in every detail. Those who are mature should press on in the Holy Spirit's power, knowing that Christ will reveal and fill in any discrepancy between what we are and what we should be. Christ's provision is no excuse for lagging devotion, but it provides relief and assurance for those who feel driven. 3:16 Christian maturity involves acting on the guidance that you have already received. We can always make excuses that we still have so much to learn. The instruction for us is to live up to
what we already know and live out what we have already learned. We do not have to be sidetracked by an unending search for truth. 3:17 Paul challenged the Philippians to pursue Christlikeness by following Paul's own pattern or example. This did not mean, of course, that they should copy everything he did; he had just stated that he was not perfect (3:12). But as he focused his life on being like Christ, so should they. The Gospels may not yet have been in circulation, so Paul could not tell them to read the Bible to see what Christ was like. Therefore, he urged them to imitate him. That Paul could tell people to follow his example is a testimony to his character. Can you do the same? What kind of follower would a new Christian become if he or she imitated you? 3:17-21 Paul criticized not only the Judaizers but also self-indulgent Christians, people who claimed to be Christians but didn't live up to Christ's model of servanthood and self-sacrifice. Such people satisfy their own desires before even thinking about the needs of others. Freedom in Christ does not mean freedom to be selfish. It means taking every opportunity to serve and to become the best person you can be. 3:19 Paul gets tough with people who live to appease their appetites, who believe so strongly in their greatness that they become slaves to pride. What horrible people these must be—so concerned with earthly trivia that during worship their minds wander; so consumed with work that worship is inconvenient; so busy planning the next party that there is no time for prayer. Paul says they are headed for destruction because all they can think about is this life here on earth. But then we must ask ourselves: Is too much of our time spent on efforts that will not endure in eternity, seeking earthly pleasures, or satisfying our physical desires? We must set our minds on knowing Christ, not on the pursuits of this world. 3:20 Citizens of a Roman colony were expected to promote the interests of Rome and maintain the dignity of the city. In the same way, citizens of heaven ought to promote heaven's interests on earth and lead lives worthy of heavenly citizenship. Too many Christians have failed to transfer their citizenship to heaven. They still seek earthly pleasures and treasures instead of heavenly ones. Paul told the Colossians to remember that they are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. Have you transferred your citizenship? How are you promoting heaven's interests? 3:21 The phrase "weak mortal bodies" does not imply any negative attitude toward the human body. However, the bodies we will receive when we are raised from the dead will be glorious, like Christ's resurrected body. Those who struggle with pain, physical limitations, or disabilities can have wonderful hope in the resurrection. For a more detailed discussion of our new bodies, see 1 Corinthians 15:35ff and 2 Corinthians 5:1-10.
November 17, 2013 Exhortations - Philippians 4:2-9 (Leaders – keep in mind there will be more material that you will be able to cover in 45 minutes, so pick question and additional information that you want to lead your group in discussing)
1. How did Paul feel toward the Philippian congregation? (4:1) 2. What did Paul exhort the Philippian believers to do? (4:1) 3. How have disagreements between people affected your church? 4. Why did Paul plead with Euodia and Syntyche? (4:2) 5. How had Euodia and Syntyche helped Paul in the past? (4:3) 6. How can you have a peaceful spirit? 7. What was Paul’s relationship with Clement? (4:3) 8. How could Paul count on his "loyal yokefellow"? (4:3) 9. When have you been involved in helping Christians resolve differences? 10. What did Paul encourage his readers to do? (4:4) 11. How did Paul tell the Philippian Christians to treat others? (4:5) 12. How should an awareness of Christ’s imminent return affect a person’s attitude? (4:5-7)
13. What did Paul say about anxiety? (4:6-7) 14. What can you do today to reduce your level of anxiety? 15. What were the Philippians to do instead of worrying? (4:6-7) 16. How can a believer enjoy the peace of God? (4:6-7) 17. What are the qualities of wholesome thoughts? (4:8) 18. What does it take for you to think worthy thoughts? 19. What does it mean to live a righteous life-style? 20. What were the Philippians to put into practice? (4:9) 21. How can believers enjoy the presence of the God of peace? (4:9)
Additional Thoughts from the Life Application Study Bible 4:1 How do we "stay true to the Lord"? This refers to what Paul has just taught in 3:20, 21. The way to stay true is to keep our eyes on Christ, to remember that this world is not our home, and to focus on the fact that Christ will bring everything under his control. Staying true means steadfastly resisting the negative influences of temptation, false teaching, or persecution. It requires perseverance when we are challenged or opposed. Don't lose heart or give up. God promises to give us strength of character. With the Holy Spirit's help and with the help of fellow believers, you can stay true to the Lord.
4:2, 3 Paul did not warn the Philippian church of doctrinal errors, but he did address some relational problems. These two women had been workers for Christ in the church. Their broken relationship was no small matter, because many had become believers through their efforts. It is possible to believe in Christ, work hard for his Kingdom, and yet have broken relationships with others who are committed to the same cause. But there is no excuse for remaining unreconciled. Do you need to be reconciled to someone today? If you're facing a conflict you can't resolve, don't let the tension build into an explosion. Don't withdraw or resort to cruel power plays. Don't stand idly by and wait for the dispute to resolve itself. Instead, seek the help of those known for peacemaking. 4:3 The identity of this "true partner" remains a mystery. It could be Epaphroditus, the bearer of this letter, or a comrade of Paul in prison. It could also be someone named Syzygus, another way to understand the word for "partner." 4:3 Those "whose names are written in the Book of Life" are all who are marked for salvation through their faith in Christ (see also Luke 10:17-20; Revelation 20:11-15). 4:4 It seems strange that a man in prison would be telling a church to rejoice. But Paul's attitude teaches us an important lesson: Our inner attitudes do not have to reflect our outward circumstances. Paul was full of joy because he knew that no matter what happened to him, Jesus Christ was with him. Several times in this letter Paul urged the Philippians to be joyful, probably because they needed to hear this. It's easy to get discouraged about unpleasant circumstances or to take unimportant events too seriously. If you haven't been joyful lately, you may not be looking at life from the right perspective. 4:4, 5 Ultimate joy comes from Christ dwelling within us. Christ is near, and at his second coming we will fully realize this ultimate joy. He who lives within us will fulfill his final purposes for us. 4:5 We are to be considerate (reasonable, fair minded, and charitable) to those outside the church, and not just to fellow believers. This means we are not to seek revenge against those who treat us unfairly, nor are we to be overly vocal about our personal rights. 4:6, 7 Imagine never worrying about anything! It seems like an impossibility; we all have worries on the job, in our homes, at school. But Paul's advice is to turn our worries into prayers. Do you want to worry less? Then pray more! Whenever you start to worry, stop and pray. 4:7 God's peace is different from the world's peace (see John 14:27). True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings. It comes from knowing that God is in control. Our citizenship in Christ's Kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin. Let God's peace guard your heart against anxiety. 4:8 What we put into our mind determines what comes out in our words and actions. Paul tells us to program our mind with thoughts that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable,
excellent, and worthy of praise. Do you have problems with impure thoughts and daydreams? Examine what you are putting into your mind through television, Internet, books, conversations, movies, and magazines. Replace harmful input with wholesome material. Above all, read God's Word and pray. Ask God to help you focus your mind on what is good and pure. It takes practice, but it can be done. 4:9 It's not enough to hear or read the Word of God or even to know it well. We must also put it into practice. How easy it is to listen to a sermon and forget what the preacher said. How easy it is to read the Bible and not think about how to live differently. How easy it is to debate what a passage means and not live out that meaning. Exposure to God's Word is not enough. It must lead to obedience.
November 24, 2013 Thanks for Their Gifts - Philippians 4:10-23 (Leaders – keep in mind there will be more material that you will be able to cover in 45 minutes, so pick question and additional information that you want to lead your group in discussing) 1. Why was Paul glad? (4:10-13) 2. What lesson had Paul learned about contentment? (4:10-13) 3. How could Paul be so flexible in his approach to life’s circumstances? 4. What can you learn from Paul about being content? 5. Why could Paul handle any kind of circumstance? (4:13) 6. What did the Philippians do about Paul’s troubles? (4:14) 7. What can you do to develop an attitude of contentment in all circumstances? 8. How did Paul feel toward the Philippian believers? Why? (4:14) 9. How had the Philippians supported Paul in the past? (4:15-16) 10. What did Paul not want? (4:17) 11. What did Paul want for the Philippians? (4:17) 12. What was Paul’s current financial situation? (4:18)
13. How did Paul respond to the Philippians’ generosity? (4:18-19) 14. How would God reciprocate the believers’ generosity? (4:19) 15. What can you do to be ready for others when they need financial help? 16. What can your church do to help missionaries with financial needs? 17. How will God honor a giving spirit? 18. This week, what can you do to help a Christian who needs financial support? 19. To whom did Paul give thanks and praise? (4:20) 20. Who sent final greetings to the Philippians? (4:21-22) 21. To what did Paul give prominence in closing his letter? (4:23)
Additional Thoughts from the Life Application Study Bible 4:10 In 1 Corinthians 9:11-18, Paul wrote that he didn't accept gifts from the Corinthian church because he didn't want to be accused of preaching only to get money. But Paul maintained that it was a church's responsibility to support God's ministers (1 Corinthians 9:14). He accepted the Philippians' gift because they gave it willingly and because he was in need. 4:10-14 Are you able to get along happily (be content) in any circumstances you face? Paul knew how to be satisfied whether he had plenty or whether he was in need. The secret was drawing on Christ's power for strength. Do you have great needs, or are you dissatisfied because you don't have what you want? Learn to rely on God's promises and Christ's power to help you be content. If you always want more, ask God to remove that desire and teach you how to be satisfied in every circumstance. He will supply all your needs, but in a way that he knows is best for you.
4:12, 13 Paul could get along happily because he could see life from God's point of view. He focused on what he was supposed to do, not what he felt he should have. Paul had his priorities straight, and he was grateful for everything God had given him. Paul had detached himself from the nonessentials so that he could concentrate on the eternal. Often the desire for more or better possessions is really a longing to fill an empty place in a person's life. To what are you drawn when you feel empty inside? How can you find true contentment? The answer lies in your perspective, your priorities, and your source of power. 4:13 Can we really do everything? The power we receive in union with Christ is sufficient to do his will and to face the challenges that arise from our commitment to doing it. He does not grant us superhuman ability to accomplish anything we can imagine without regard to his interests. As we contend for the faith, we will face troubles, pressures, and trials. As they come, ask Christ to strengthen you. 4:14 The Philippians shared in Paul's financial support while he was in prison. 4:15 What makes money so magnetic and giving it away so stressful? Money measures our energy; it represents our day-to-day security. Giving money away puts our work and our futures at risk. Not every charity deserves your attention, and you're wise to scrutinize missionary appeals as well. But once you've determined that a project honors the Lord, don't hold back— give generously and joyfully. Like the Philippians, you'll be establishing an eternal partnership. 4:17 When we give to those in need, it not only benefits the receiver but it benefits us as well. It was not the Philippians' gift but their spirit of love and devotion that Paul appreciated most. 4:18 Paul was not referring to a sin offering but to a peace offering, "a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God" (Leviticus 7:12-15 contains the instructions for such offerings of thanksgiving). Although the Greek and Roman Christians were not Jews and they had not offered sacrifices according to the Old Testament laws, they were well acquainted with the pagan rituals of offering sacrifices. 4:19 We can trust that God will always meet our needs. Whatever we need on earth he will always supply, even if it is the courage to face death as Paul did. Whatever we need in heaven he will supply. We must remember, however, the difference between our wants and our needs. Most people want to feel good and avoid discomfort or pain. We may not get all that we want. By trusting in Christ, our attitudes and appetites can change from wanting everything to accepting his provision and power to live for him. 4:22 There were many Christians in Rome; some were even in Caesar's household. Perhaps Paul, while awaiting trial, was making converts of the Roman civil service! Paul sent greetings from these Roman Christians to the believers at Philippi. The Good News had spread to all strata of society, linking people who had no other bond but Christ. The Roman Christians and the Philippian Christians were brothers and sisters because of their unity in Christ. Believers
today are also linked to others across cultural, economic, and social barriers. Because all believers are brothers and sisters in Christ, let us live like God's true family. 4:23 In many ways the Philippian church was a model congregation. It was made up of many different kinds of people who were learning to work together. But Paul recognized that problems could arise, so in his thank-you letter he prepared the Philippians for difficulties that could crop up within a body of believers. Although a prisoner in Rome, Paul had learned the true secret of joy and peace—imitating Christ and serving others. By focusing our mind on Christ, we will learn unity, humility, joy, and peace. We will also be motivated to live for him. We can live confidently for him because we have "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ" with us.
