Philippians Week 1

This week, we've been reading Philippians 1. Today, acknowledging that Philippians was first penned as a letter, take a few moments to write or type it out. Read it aloud in its entirety. Take a few moments to simply dwell on this passage of Scripture as a whole. Here are a few questions to help you journal or meditate on Philippians 1.

• Joy is one of the main themes of Philippians, but this isn't joy that's found in circumstances. It's found in Christ. How do you see that theme playing out in Philippians 1?
  

• In verse 1, Paul mentioned the saints of the Philippian church as well as the overseers/elders (pastors) and deacons.

  • How will you pray for fellow believers in your local Body of Christ this week?

  • How will you pray for your pastor or pastoral team?

  • How will you lift up the deacons who serve your church family?
    

• Paul celebrated the Philippians as partners in the gospel/good news. Who in your life can you celebrate as a partner in the good news? Why?
  

• Paul stressed (in verses 12-20) that his suffering had actually advanced the gospel. When have you seen God use hard things to show more of his character, his love and his salvation to the world?
  

• Ponder verses 21-26. How would you write this in your own words? Why would dying be gain?
  

• Paul described his readers as citizens of heaven in verse 27. How would truly understanding this idea and living as a citizen of heaven change the way you live your daily life?
  

• Paul called the Philippians to unity (v. 27), to work together for the sake of the gospel (v. 27) and exhorted them not to be afraid of those who opposed them (v. 28).

  • What would it look like today if believers, even just in your local church body, were to strive to live in unity? How can you strive to live in unity?

  • How can you work with other believers for the sake of the gospel in your church? In your community? In the world?

  • How would it change your life to not live in fear of those who oppose you? How would it change your church? Your community? Your world?