Philippians Four Week Bible Study
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A Beautiful Hope in a Desperate World
A Beautiful Hope in a Desperate World
A Four-Week Discussion Guide in Philippians
Discussion ONE
Discussion ONE
Introduction
Introduction
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Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,
Welcome to the warm, insightful, challenging book of Philippians; or rather the letter to the Philippian church.
As we study this book together, my prayer is that each of us will see the light of Christ shining out from us brighter and brighter, attracting the lost to the Gospel.
Home Study: Each week, if possible, read out-loud through the entire book of Philippians at least once and in one sitting. This is how it was originally intended to be read; out-loud to a congregation.
Each week, if possible, read out-loud through the entire book of Philippians at least once and in one sitting. This is how it was originally intended to be read; out-loud to a congregation.
ü In the back of the book are a few scripture memory cards you can cut out for your use. Start a list of verses you would like to memorize as we study together.
Let’s begin!
1. What is the purpose for the letter and why is it important for us today?
Watch this video (Skip to 8:30 if short on time)
https://youtu.be/UXBQQOPHr94
Many people may have heard that Jesus Christ lay down his life for others, but they don’t see the same from His followers. The lost people around us too often do not see the ideals of Christianity lived out in the day-to-day interaction with Christians.
72% of the unchurched who were surveyed said the #1 reason they don’t go to church is because the church is full of hypocrites.
Gandhi said, “I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.”
Discuss:
How does all of this information make you feel? Is it surprising or not?
Do you agree or disagree and why?
Can you think of exceptions? Who? How have they impacted your life?
3. There are many exceptions, and in fact many Christians are making a huge difference in the world and arguably the most “good” is done in the world by Christians collectively.
BUT, even so, statistics show that the un-churched population on average is not being attracted TO the Gospel of Christ because the average Christian is simply not standing out from the world as an example OF the Gospel of Christ.
attracted TO the Gospel of Christ
because the average Christian is simply not standing out from the world as an
example OF the Gospel of Christ.
Faith without works is a feel good religion; and works without faith is a cold legalism.
and works without faith is a cold legalism.
Discuss:
Many are saying we live in a post-Christian culture. Do you agree or disagree?
The good news is…..
The World IS Searching!
Research also shows that the un-churched are searching for something real and authentic!
The Bible teaches that the Real Thing, which will fulfill every human longing, is Jesus Christ. People need to see authentic Christianity displayed.
As Christians, we are the only ones who can offer this hope!
We need to be attractive for the gospel of Christ.
Paul’s letter to the Philippians can help us! In this short book Paul explains how to attract people to the gospel of Christ by giving examples from his own life, his own thoughts, and the lives of others. He gives practical advice and boosts of encouragement. At the center of it all is Jesus.
1. Read . This is the key-verse for our study of Philippians.
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,
What words stand out to you in this passage?
Based on the text, what were the people of the world like in Paul’s day? What does he mean? What are some examples from other parts of the Bible or history that reflect this?
In what ways is our world similar?
Read these alarming statistics. What other examples can you think of?
1. The number of Un-churched people in the United States is growing at alarming levels.
· In the 1990's 30% of the American population was un-churched.
· Just two decades later that number has jumped to 43%!
· 4 out of 10 Americans is un-churched!
2. Violence is at an all-time high. Let’s just look at domestic violence:
· Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten.
· Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime. Most often, the abuser is a member of her own family.
· Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
· Studies suggest that up to 10 million children witness some form of domestic violence annually.
When Paul wrote “Shine as Lights” he used terms of astronomy giving a word picture of stars in the night sky. What are your experiences in star gazing? Any stories?
📷 Can you imagine what the stars must have looked like in Philippi? No city lights, no smog, etc.
Can you imagine what the stars must have looked like in Philippi? No city lights, no smog, etc.
When star gazing, you quickly realize that the darker the surroundings, the brighter starlight seems to shine. How does this truth add to Paul’s illustration?
📷 When star gazing, you quickly realize that the darker the surroundings, the brighter starlight seems to shine. How does this truth add to Paul’s illustration?
When the world around us grows darker,
When the world around us grows darker,
Christians should shine brighter.
Christians should shine brighter.
Christians are to be lights in the darkness:
Christians are to be lights in the darkness:
A Beautiful Hope in a Desperate World.
A Beautiful Hope in a Desperate World.
Discussion TWO
Discussion TWO
Letter to the Philippians
Letter to the Philippians
Background Information
Background Information
1. Who wrote the letter?
1. Who wrote the letter?
Read . Scholars agree that Paul was the author, Timothy was present with Paul and sent greetings.
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Who was the Apostle Paul?
2. Who was the Apostle Paul?
A. Religious and Cultural Elite
A. Religious and Cultural Elite
He was a Jew ().
He was a Jew ().
“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day.
He spoke Hebrew ().
He spoke Hebrew ().
And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even more quiet. And he said:
He was from the Tribe of Benjamin ().
He was from the Tribe of Benjamin ().
circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee;
What other famous O.T. Jew was from this Tribe? King Saul ().
What other famous O.T. Jew was from this Tribe? King Saul ().
Now the day before Saul came, the Lord had revealed to Samuel:
There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Becorath, son of Aphiah, a Benjaminite, a man of wealth. And he had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man. There was not a man among the people of Israel more handsome than he. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.
He was a Pharisee ().
He was a Pharisee ().
circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee;
Describe a Pharisee
a. “separated from sinners”
b. Rabbinic Scholars-Jewish teachers, keepers of written and oral law
i. Food laws
ii. Ritual purity (no eating at sinner’s houses)
iii. Sabbath observance
He was educated under the teaching of Gamaliel ().
He was educated under the teaching of Gamaliel ().
“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day.
i. Who was that teacher?
a. Most famous teacher of his generation[1]
b. Included mastery of OT, traditions, Greek wisdom, and a trade (tent making see ).
and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade.
B. Social Elite
B. Social Elite
He was born in Tarsus in Cilicia ().
He was born in Tarsus in Cilicia ().
Paul replied, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no obscure city. I beg you, permit me to speak to the people.”
What does this verse say about this city?
(no insignificant city)
He was born a Roman Citizen ().
But when they had stretched him out for the whips, Paul said to the centurion who was standing by, “Is it lawful for you to flog a man who is a Roman citizen and uncondemned?” When the centurion heard this, he went to the tribune and said to him, “What are you about to do? For this man is a Roman citizen.” So the tribune came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?” And he said, “Yes.” The tribune answered, “I bought this citizenship for a large sum.” Paul said, “But I am a citizen by birth.” So those who were about to examine him withdrew from him immediately, and the tribune also was afraid, for he realized that Paul was a Roman citizen and that he had bound him.
a. In Eastern cities, Roman citizens were an aristocratic elite
He had connections with Jerusalem Priesthood.
He had connections with Jerusalem Priesthood.
a. Official envoy of the high priest ().
But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
b. Nephew with priestly access ().
When it was day, the Jews made a plot and bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. There were more than forty who made this conspiracy. They went to the chief priests and elders and said, “We have strictly bound ourselves by an oath to taste no food till we have killed Paul. Now therefore you, along with the council, give notice to the tribune to bring him down to you, as though you were going to determine his case more exactly. And we are ready to kill him before he comes near.” Now the son of Paul’s sister heard of their ambush, so he went and entered the barracks and told Paul.
📷 Advanced beyond his contemporaries 4).
c. Advanced beyond his contemporaries ().
For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers.
C. Paul’s Conversion: Read and .
C. Paul’s Conversion: Read and .
And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.
But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank. Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; and taking food, he was strengthened. For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.”
D. Paul’s Journeys (Found in ) See Maps below.
D. Paul’s Journeys (Found in ) See Maps below.
a. Journey 1: Antioch of Syria to Region of Galatia ().
b. Journey 2: Jerusalem to Antioch of Syria to Galatia, Macedonia, and Greece ().
i. Planting of Philippian Church (16.11-40)
c. Journey 3: Antioch of Syria to Greece with a 2 year stay in Ephesus ().
Paul’s Third Missionary Journey: (AD 54-58)
i. Probably visited Philippi 2x
📷 Made haste to Jerusalem
ii. Made haste to Jerusalem
d. Journey 4: As a prisoner to Rome (c.a. AD 60)-().
📷
Ø
📷
📷 Made haste to Jerusalem
E. Paul’s later ministry
marks the end of the biblical record as a Roman prisoner around AD 60, awaiting trial. From here, he probably wrote Ephesians, Philippians. Colossians, and Philemon during the 2 years.
He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him,
He was apparently expecting to be released () and he was possibly released around AD 63.
for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance,
According to Clement, it appears Paul went to Spain.
He then returned to the Aegean mission countering the Judaizers. He wrote 1 Tim. And Titus.
Returned to Rome around AD 67 where he was rearrested, wrote 2 Tim. Beheaded sometime before Nero’s suicide June 9, AD. 68.
Teachers Notes about Missionary Journeys
Teachers Notes about Missionary Journeys
i. Paul’s missionary journeys in
1. 1st Galatia (ca. A.D. 46-49)
a. Southern Asia Minor
b. Seleucia then sailed to Cyprus
i. Salamis (preached) then thru whole island as far as Paphos (encounter)
ii. Sailed from Paphos to Perga in Pamphylia
iii. Perga to Antioch in Pisidia (Preached in Synagogue., rejected and turned to Gentiles)
iv. Went to Iconium (Preached, divided city, spent a lot of time here)
1. Threatened stoning
v. Fled to Lystra and Derbe (cities of Lycaonia) and the surrounding country
1. In Lystra, he healed a man and people tried to worship Paul and Barnabus.
2. Then the Jews came from Antioch and Liconium and stirred them up. Stoned them,, drug them out of the city.
3. Went on and preached in Derbe
vi. Emboldened, returned back to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch encouraging and appointing elders
1. Can you imagine the boldness it took to return back to the place where people stoned you?
vii. Back to Perga in Pamphylia
viii. Then to Attalia and sailed back to Antioch (Original)
2. 2nd Antioch to Galatia, Macedonia, and Achaia (Greece), (Greek emphasis ca. A.D. 49-53)
a. Paul and Barnabus split up and Paul and Silas go to Tarsus
b. Plan is to return to Galatian churches by southeast land route
c. Loop: Syrian Antioch to Greece and Back (18 months in Corinth)
i. Syrian Churches
ii. Cilicia
iii. Derbe and Lystra (Found Timothy here)
iv. Phrygia and Galatia (Forbidden by HS to speak word in Asia.
v. Mysia and attempted Bithynia but Spirit of Jesus would not allow them.
vi. Passed by Mysia, went down to Troas (vision of a man from Macedonia)
vii. Set out for Macedonia
viii. (16.11-40)-Sailed from Troas to Samothrace to Neapolis to Philippi ( a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony).
1. Remained some days
2. Converts
a. Lydia
i. Found outside the gate at a place of prayer gathered with other women
ii. From Thyatira
iii. Seller of purple goods
iv. Worshipper of God
v. Lord opened her heart, she paid attention
vi. Baptized and her household saved too
b. Slave girl
i. Spirit of divination
ii. Followed Paul crying out, “These men are servants of the most high God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.”
iii. Paul exercised demon
iv. Maddened the owners and drug them to court
v. Stripped and beaten and imprisoned
c. Philippian Jailer
i. Probably rough deadly soldier
ii. Paul and Silas singing hymns
iii. Earthquake
iv. Suicide but Paul stops him
v. “What must I do to be saved?”
vi. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.
vii. Baptized and whole household saved
ix. Amphipolis and Apollonia to Thessalonica
x. By night, escaped to Berea (Silas and Timothy remain here)
xi. Paul taken all the way to Athens and sent for Timothy and Silas to come to him.
xii. While waiting for them he preached and reasoned with leaders in Athens
xiii. Corinth
1. Met Priscilla and Aquilla from Italy
2. Silas and Timothy join him again
3. Stays about 2 years
xiv. Set sail for Syria with Priscilla and Aquilla
xv. Cenchreae (Cut his hair due to a vow)
xvi. Ephesus exploratory visit-(short stay this time)
xvii. Sails to Caesarea to Antioch
xviii. Galatia and Phrygia and surrounding areas
3. 3rd Journey Antioch to Greece (Asian emphasis, ca. A.D. 54-58)
a. , Syrian Antioch, Asia (Ephesus), Greece, Jerusalem, Caesarea (2 years in Ephesus)
i. Passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus
1. Two years
ii. Regions of Macedonia (Philippi?)
iii. Greece (3 months. Plot against him by the Jews)
iv. Instead of setting sail for Syria he returned through Macedonia
1. Forced to backtrack through Aegean basin
2. Luke must have joined him here because he starts using “us” instead of “him.”
3. Spent time in Philippi ()
v. Troas (they were waiting on him here)
1. Spoke till midnight, man fell out window
2. Spoke rest of night and then set sail for Assos. Paul went by land.
vi. Paul on ship sailed to Mitylene touched at Samos and then to Miletus.
1. Hastening to Jerusalem to be there by Pentecost, so past by Ephesus and Asia.
2. Farewell to Ephesian leaders in Miletus (time was short)
vii. Cos-Rhodes-Patara
viii. Ship to Phoenicia while sailing, came in sight of Cyprus on the left and on to Syria. Landed at Tyre
ix. Tyre to Ptolemais to Caesarea
1. To Jerusalem
a. Prophetic warnings in Tyre
b. Prophetic warnings in Caesarea
x. Arrived in Jerusalem (21.17)
4. 4th Journey to Rome (ca. A.D. 60)
a. -Prisoner taken to Rome
b. Jerusalem-Caesarea-Malta-Rome
3. Philippi-Where is it and how did it get there?
3. Philippi-Where is it and how did it get there?
What is your favorite Shakespeare story? What do you know about Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar?
Based on what we know from history, the final scene of Julius Caesar takes place in the year 42 BC on the plains of ___________________.
Based on what we know from history, the final scene of Julius Caesar takes place in the year 42 BC on the plains of Philippi.
The four main characters of the scene are Octavius, Antony, Cassius and Brutus. Cassius and Brutus are the ones that conspired to kill Caesar. Octavius and Antony sought revenge and killed Cassius and Brutus in the battle of this final scene. (Actually Brutus committed suicide). This battle is an historical event.
According to history, due to this victory, Antony and Octavian rewarded their Roman military by settling many of the war veterans in the city of Philippi and by bestowing on the city all the rights and privileges of a Roman colony. We know this from secular history but look at . Since it had been destroyed by wars, Octavian rebuilt it to look like a miniature Rome.
This battle made possible the unchallenged Emperor Rule of the Roman Empire.
Antony then fell in love with Cleopatra. Octavian eventually conquered Antony’s forces to take full control over the Roman Empire.
This battle made possible the unchallenged Emperor Rule of the Roman Empire.
In 27 BC, the people of Rome bestowed ultimate power on Octavian and gave him the title of Caesar Augustus.
Does this name sound familiar? (See ).
Some key things to know about Philippi:
Some key things to know about Philippi:
1. Became capital of Greek Empire. In 359/358 BC Philip II of Macedon (father of Alexander the Great) took control and changed the name to Philippi (from Crenides which means “fountains” or “springs” due to abundant water supply nearby.) The abundant supply of gold, silver and timber gave Philip the dream for the Greeks to conquer the world. His son, Alexander, carried out that dream.
2. Rome conquered it in 168 BC, discontinued mining and the town diminished in popularity until the Battle of 42BC. After which Antony and Octavian granted status of Roman Colony and rebuilt it and settled veterans there. Also made it a military outpost.
3. Octavian also bestowed on the city the ius italicum—the highest privilege obtainable by a provincial municipality.
4. The citizens would have been very proud to be a Roman Colony (c.f. ).
They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.”
5. Because it was a Roman colony, it was rebuilt to look, smell, taste, and sound like a miniature Rome, yet it was 800 miles away amidst a prominently Greek culture. The people were considered citizens of Rome. There were tax advantages and significant other privileges: exempt from land tax and poll tax, entitled to protection by Roman law.
6. Variety of religions and Cults: God’s from Thracia, Greece, Rome, Antolia, Syria, and Egypt.
7. Strong anti-Semitic sentiment. Apparently very few Jews there.
8. A town with many veterans of Roman war.
9. Both Latin and Greek Speaking people.
10. It is in Europe, not Asia.
4. Paul and the Philippians
4. Paul and the Philippians
The founding of the Church in Philippi took place on Paul’s second journey.
Read
So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days. And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us. As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour. But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the rulers. And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God. But when it was day, the magistrates sent the police, saying, “Let those men go.” And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, “The magistrates have sent to let you go. Therefore come out now and go in peace.” But Paul said to them, “They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men who are Roman citizens, and have thrown us into prison; and do they now throw us out secretly? No! Let them come themselves and take us out.” The police reported these words to the magistrates, and they were afraid when they heard that they were Roman citizens. So they came and apologized to them. And they took them out and asked them to leave the city. So they went out of the prison and visited Lydia. And when they had seen the brothers, they encouraged them and departed.
1. The first European believer and the first member of the Church of Philippi was Lydia ().
So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days. And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.
What does the text tell us about her?
What kind of person do you think she was?
If you were to categorize different types of unbelievers, what category does she represent?
📷 If you were to categorize different types of unbelievers, what category does she represent?
2. Another new believer was probably the demon possessed girl ().
As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour.
What do you think it would have been like to have her in our church?
Have you known someone involved in the occult before?
If you were to categorize different types of unbelievers, what category does she represent?
3. A third new Christian was the Philippian Jailer ().
But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the rulers. And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.
What is your favorite part of his story?
How does Paul and Silas describe the path to salvation?
Is there evidence of his conversion?
If you were to categorize different types of unbelievers, what category does he represent?
4. Of course their families and possibly their friends were saved as well.
If you were to categorize different types of unbelievers, what category do they represent?
In what ways is our church similar or different?
What does this say about the gospel?
Some other things to know about this church:
1. :
But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict.
2. :
Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.
3. :
We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints—
4. From historical writings after the New Testament times:
The church remained strong into the second century. Its location on the Via Ignatia made it ideally suited for hospitality to travelers. 50 years after Paul’s letter to the church, Ignatius was escorted to Rome by Roman soldiers to be tried for his faith in Christ and he was comforted by the church at Philippi on the way.
· Based on what we know of the other churches Paul founded like Galatia and Corinth, why is this significant?
o What are two things that plagued these other churches? (, ; ; ; ; )
I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—
You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.
I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. What I mean is that each one of you says, “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Cephas,” or “I follow Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?
for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way? For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not being merely human?
And what I am doing I will continue to do, in order to undermine the claim of those who would like to claim that in their boasted mission they work on the same terms as we do. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
o Is there evidence from this letter that Paul may be worried these same problems are beginning to rear their ugly head?
Is there anything you wish had been included in the Bible regarding this early church or from any of the stories of these early Christians.
Setting the Scene: This seems to be the timeline of events leading up to the moment that the letter was actually received by the church in Philippi:
· Paul had a great relationship with the church in Philippi and they supported his ministry.
· Suddenly Paul is arrested and taken prisoner to Caesarea (2 years) and then Rome. Possibly no contact for years. “What happened to Paul? I hope he is Ok!”
· Somehow they get a message that Paul is in prison in Rome so they muster up some large gift (probably financial) and send it with Epaphroditus. They hope Paul is still alive by the time he gets there.
· After possibly many months, the Philippians get word that Epaph is sick! Possibly to the point of death! “Are two of the people we love dearly both dead?”
· No word for a long while.
· Suddenly, Epaph shows up with a letter from Paul! I like to imagine him showing up to the Sunday worship meeting by surprise! Epaph is alive and so is Paul! “I wonder how he is doing! I bet he is miserable is prison! Let’s read the letter.” Someone then reads the letter out loud to the whole church.
5. Place and Date of Writing
5. Place and Date of Writing
When and where was Paul when he wrote the letter?
What does indicate?
The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.
When you read the whole letter, did you notice other indications of his location?
So the question is, where and when was Paul in prison?
Option 1: Rome (AD 59-62)
Traceable to Marcionite prologues in 2nd Century. He wrote that Paul wrote Philippians “from Rome, from prison, by Epaphroditus.”
In the 4th century, Chrysostom linked Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon as Paul’s imprisonment letters, all written from Rome.
Virtually unchallenged till the 18th century.
Read and - Why do these verses seem to point to a Rome location?
so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.
All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.
Read ; . What does this indicate? Is there evidence of this type of imprisonment in Philippians?
And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him.
He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.
Read -What does Paul think may happen to him? How does this point to a Rome location?
as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.
Difficulty is the number of trips indicated from the letter back and forth between Philippi and the prison. Up to four. It was 800 miles between them and one trip took weeks. Some consider this too much travel in the 2 years that Paul was in Rome.
o News of Paul’s imprisonment reaching Philippi
o Coming of Epaphroditus with gifts from Philippi
o Report in Philippi of the illness of Epaphroditus
o Epaphroditus’ learning that the Philippians were concerned for his health.
Option 2: Caesarea (AD 56-57)
Read
When they had come to Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor, they presented Paul also before him. On reading the letter, he asked what province he was from. And when he learned that he was from Cilicia, he said, “I will give you a hearing when your accusers arrive.” And he commanded him to be guarded in Herod’s praetorium.
Has had few supporters over the years.
There is doubt that Paul would fear execution since he appealed to Caesar.
Doesn’t solve the travel issue since it was 1000 miles away.
Option 3: Ephesus (AD 54-55)
Theory has gained in popularity. Solves the travel issue since both cities were in close proximity to each other a trip only took days.
Cannot be demonstrated since the Bible never indicates Paul was imprisoned in Ephesus. But it is still possible. He was there for two years! (; ; )
📷Cannot be demonstrated since the Bible never indicates Paul was imprisoned in Ephesus. But it is still possible. He was there for two years! 9;3;2)
📷 Ephesus was capital city of Asia. Governors residence was sometimes referred to as “Caesar’s household.”
Ephesus was capital city of Asia. Governors residence was sometimes referred to as “Caesar’s household.”
📷 Also, “Praetorium Guard” could also indicate the guard of a governor’s residence 5;7).
Also, “Praetorium Guard” could also indicate the guard of a governor’s residence (; ).
he said, “I will give you a hearing when your accusers arrive.” And he commanded him to be guarded in Herod’s praetorium.
Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the governor’s headquarters, and they gathered the whole battalion before him.
Read and . Some see this contradiction as an indication that Rome is not a possible alternative. But if written from Ephesus this make more sense. What do you think?
📷 Read4 and4. Some see this contradiction as an indication that Rome is not a possible alternative. But if written from Ephesus this make more sense. What do you think?
But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while.
and I trust in the Lord that shortly I myself will come also.
📷 Difficulties with view:
Difficulties with view:
o It is based on conjecture
o Philippians does not mention a collection for the poor, which was important to Paul during his Ephesian ministry.
o Paul laments that he has no close companions with him (), but his good friends Priscilla and Aquilla would have been present in Ephesus ().
For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
After this, Paul stayed many days longer and then took leave of the brothers and set sail for Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila. At Cenchreae he had cut his hair, for he was under a vow.
o Paul did not face death while in Ephesus, unlike the circumstances in .
for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
What do you think? Why does it matter?
Discussion THREE:
Discussion THREE:
Philippians Chapter 1: Gospel Focused
Philippians Chapter 1: Gospel Focused
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1. Read (First half of Paul’s prayer)
1. Read (First half of Paul’s prayer)
I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.
In one word, how does Paul feel about this church?
How word would describe the feelings you have for your church?
What is the main thrust of Paul’s prayer? What does he expect them to continue to do?
What other parts of the prayer interest you? Why?
Is there a ministry or someone you used to pray for or support but have forgotten about recently? Would you consider praying for and supporting them again?
2. Read (Second half of Paul’s prayer)
2. Read (Second half of Paul’s prayer)
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Paul mentions several things here, but what is the ultimate goal for the Philippians found at the conclusion of the prayer? Who gets the credit?
Who was the Apostle Paul in your life? Who led you to Christ? Who helped nurture your faith?
3. Read (Paul’s Situation)
3. Read (Paul’s Situation)
I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
In your own words, what has happened to Paul?
Is Paul bummed out about his circumstances? Would you have been?
What do you do after having a bad day?
📷 If you had been sitting in the Philippian worship service when this letter was originally read, how would you have felt about what you heard?
If you had been sitting in the Philippian worship service when this letter was originally read, how would you have felt about what you heard?
What seems to be the main focus of Paul’s viewpoint?
What does this say about how Christians should view their own circumstances?
In essence, Paul is saying, “I am not chained to a prison wall or a prison guard; I am chained to Christ!”
Is there something going on in your life that is robbing you of your joy? How can we pray for you? Is there some way we can help?
4. Read (Paul and People)
4. Read (Paul and People)
Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,
What seems to be happening around Paul?
What do these problems tell us about the church in Rome?
Is Paul bummed out about the people around him? Why or Why not?
What does this say about how Christians should react to people who try to rob their joy?
Is there someone in your life that is robbing you of your joy? How can we pray for you?
5. Read (Paul’s Decision)
5. Read (Paul’s Decision)
for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.
What are the two decisions that Paul is wrestling with?
How does he view each of these?
Which choice does he decide is better for himself?
Which option does he ultimately choose? Why?
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If you had been sitting in the Philippian church when this was originally read aloud, how would you have felt and reacted to hearing his thought process?
Why do you think Paul shared this mental deliberation with the Philippian church (and us)?
How has the message of the gospel affected your view of living and dying?
“For me, to live is …” Given your priorities and schedule this week, how would you honestly finish his sentence? What would change if you said “Christ”?
Is there a big decision you are wrestling with right now? How can we pray for you?
6. Read (“Enough about me, YOU…”)
6. Read (“Enough about me, YOU…”)
Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.
So far in chapter one, Paul has mentioned the defense of the gospel (v.7) and the proclamation of the gospel (v.12-18). In this passage, Paul gives the third ingredient for being attractive to the gospel: Conduct!
You can defend the gospel and you can proclaim the gospel, but if your conduct isn’t worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, it’s a very ugly thing indeed.
Has there been someone in your life that proved the gospel to you with their actions? Share?
Has there been a time when your conduct may have had a positive or a negative impact on someone’s view of Christ and His good news?
📷 Is there some behavior that you recognize could be hurting the cause of Christ that you are struggling with? How can we pray for you? Is there a next step you can take?
Is there some behavior that you recognize could be hurting the cause of Christ that you are struggling with? How can we pray for you? Is there a next step you can take?
Let’s look at the specific behaviors Paul outlines in these four verses.
o Convincing Conduct (vs. 27): Standing firm in one spirit with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.
§ Stand firm in the original language was military terminology that the veterans of the congregation and most Romans would have understood.
§ Striving side by side would have conjured the picture of athletes competing in a team sport.
§ Notice the three levels of unity presented: One Spirit, one mind, and striving side by side. Essentially, Christians must be on the same page: spiritually, mentally and in action.
§ But what is it that Christians are to be on the same page about? To remain laser focused on the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
§ How does our church do this? How could we do better?
o Courageous Confidence (): and not frightened in anything […]
and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God.
I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious.
§ The Greek word chosen here is not found anywhere else in the entire NT but is found in other Greek writings. It is used primarily for a horse that is rearing back when frightened, shaking off its reigns. It is also used for the frightening of a shy or timid animal.
Most people experience some level of fear when sharing their faith or standing up for beliefs, which animal would represent your type of fear, the horse or the shy animal?
Have you had some success overcoming these fears? If so, how? How can we pray or help you today?
In your experience sharing your faith, have you made any enemies?
What does Paul say in vs. 28 is the main reason for being courageous?
📷 What does Paul say in vs. 28 is the main reason for being courageous?
How can we put that in our own words?
Go back and look at verse 1.21. I like to imagine that Paul expressed this to the Roman guards and possibly even to the Roman court. If you were Caesar, desiring to strike fear into your prisoners with a death sentence, how do you think Paul’s statement would make you feel? How would you feel about the gospel?
https://youtu.be/SkDrflc8v9E Nero, They are singing.
o Certain Suffering ( ): For it is granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake […]
For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have.
What strikes you about this verse?
Read . How does this verse relate?
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
Someone once said, “God is at His best when we are suffering for serving Him.”
How does this message compare with the prosperity gospel touted from many pulpits today? (Think T.V.) How do you feel about this?
In vs. 30, Paul mentions conflict that “you saw I had and now hear that I still have.” What is he talking about?
Are you suffering today? How can we pray for you and help you?
In what ways might you be avoiding suffering for Jesus?
Discussion FOUR
Discussion FOUR
Chapter 2: Others Minded
Chapter 2: Others Minded
Read
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,
What words or phrases stick out to you from this passage?
How does this passage relate to Chapter 1?
Chapter one seems to be about being Gospel focused, while chapter two seems to be about being others focused. How are the two connected?
In vs. 1, Paul uses the word “If” to ask about encouragement in Christ and other benefits of being a Christian. List those here and describe what each one means:
o Encouragement in Christ:
o Comfort from Love:
o Participation in the Spirit:
o Affection and Sympathy:
Do you think Paul is expecting a “yes” or a “no” response?
§ This is really just a rhetorical question. Technically in Greek, the word translated “if” is called a first class conditional which indicates a question that expects a positive answer.
Read the verse again, replacing “if” with “since.” This would have been how the original audience would have understood this.
Read the verse again, replacing “if” with “since.” This would have been how the original audience would have understood this.
Take some time as a group to share how these have been real for you?
In vs. 2, what does Paul say will make his joy complete? If you were part of the Philippian church and you heard this knowing where Paul was, what would you think about Paul’s concern for you and your church?
List the four things mentioned in vs. 2 that Paul is admonishing the Philippian church to do:
o Being of the same mind
o Having the same love
o Being in full accord (or one accord)
o Being of one mind
In your own words, what is Paul saying he wants them to do?
In vs. 3-4, Paul tells the Philippians exactly what this all looks like in very practical terms. Spend some time discussing these as a group.
What is the difference between humility and being a doormat?
What does it mean to consider someone better than yourself?
Albert Einstein once wrote, “Well-being and happiness never appear to me as an absolute aim. I am inclined to consider such aims as that of a pig.” And “Only a life lived for others is a life worth living.”
UNITY- Critical for attracting the lost to the gospel of Christ
Here are some words that often get confused with unity; discuss each one and how it differs from unity:
o United:
Two cats tails tied together and put them over a clothes line…united but not unity
o Union:
Formal agreements…not unity (Miserable married couple)
o Uniformity:
Everyone is exactly the same…not unity (Dress code)
o Unanimity:
Everyone agree on everything…not unity (Strong leader who surrounds himself with yes men.)
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Wrapping it all up!
Wrapping it all up!
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.
We discussed some of this passage at the very beginning of this study. Take a few minutes to read the passage and to discuss it again in light of all we have studied so far.
What is the significance of Do all things without grumbling or complaining?
What are the all things Paul is referring to?
Do the words grumbling and complaining remind you of another story in the Bible? How did God respond in that situation? (, ) Why do you think God took it so seriously?
In keeping with the theme of having joy and being attractive for the gospel, how does this apply?
Have you ever been tempted to complain about your work, ministry, or family responsibilities? What is one task that you have a hard time doing without complaining or arguing?
My dad would ask us, “What did Jesus do to you to make you so upset?”
📷 My dad would ask us, “What did Jesus do to you to make you so upset?”
o Remember, we work and live for the Lord, not a group, not a congregation, not a pastor, not a person, not a ministry, not a boss, not a corporation, not a family. We work and live for Jesus, in all that we do.
o It is natural to get weary in the work, but we should never get weary of the work.
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Rejoicing and working without grumble or complaint are inextricably related. Both stem from the attitude of the heart. The more we choose to rejoice in the Lord and be thankful for His provision, the less we’ll struggle with a bad attitude. One is a natural consequence of the other; this is how God has ordained things to work.[2]
What are some things that make this command so difficult? Does anyone have a story to share?
Peter spoke about this too. Read and discuss.
The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Read and put it in your own words.
Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.
How not to shine: Teacher Note: Illustration would be to shine a flashlight into student’s eyes and ask what they see and if it is attractive. We are to shine but not like that.
[1] Bruce. Acts, NICNT, 115.
[2] Runge, S. E. (2011). High Definition Commentary: Philippians (). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.