PHILIPPIANS

Introduction:

The city and its history.

Philippi should not be confused with Caesarea Philippi from Matthew 16 where Jesus declared the building of the church. They are many miles apart, though both do have a link to Philip of Macedonia.

It is believed by some that Paul wrote 1st and 2nd Corinthians from Philippi.

The church in Philippi and its history.

(Acts 16:12) And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.

Where was Philippi?

What was special about Philippi?

Who is included in the 'we' mentioned in this chapter?

(Acts 16:13) And on the Sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.

Why did they go to the riverside on the Sabbath?

What did they do there?

(Acts 16:14) And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Who paid special attention to Paul's teaching?

Where was her hometown?

(Acts 16:15) And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

What did she do after hearing the teaching of Paul?

Where did Paul and his companions stay while they were teaching in Philippi?

(Acts 16:16) And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:

Who did they meet?

What was unusual about this person?

(Acts 16:17) The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.

What did she say about Paul and those with him?

Was what she said true?

Was it good for Paul to have her following him and saying this?

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(Acts 16:18) And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

After several days, what did Paul finally do?

Was she like the fake fortune tellers of today?

(Acts 16:19) And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,

Why did Paul freeing her cause problems?

Who did not get taken to the rulers?

(Acts 16:20) And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,

What did her masters do?

What accusation did the bring first?

(Acts 16:21) And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.

What other accusations do they add?

(Acts 16:22) And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.

What was the reaction of the people?

What was the reaction of the magistrates (judges/rulers)?

(Acts 16:23) And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:

What did they do to them after beating them?

Who was put in charge of them?

(Acts 16:24) Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

What did he do with them?

(Acts 16:25) And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

What reaction did Paul and Silas have to these events?

Who heard this going on?

(Acts 16:26) And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.

What was God's reaction to these events?

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PHILIPPIANS - Introduction continued

(Acts 16:27) And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

Why would this man consider killing himself because prisoners had excaped.

(Acts 16:28) But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.

Why did Paul tell him to stop?

Why do you think Paul and Silas did not escape?

Why do you think the other prisoners did not escape?

(Acts 16:29) Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,

How do you suppose the jailer knew Paul and Silas were the ones he should approach?

(Acts 16:30) And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

How did he know to ask this question?

(Acts 16:31) And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

If one person believes does it save the other members of his family?

Can someone believe something they have never heard or learned before?

(Acts 16:32) And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.

Who did they teach?

(Acts 16:33) And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

Why did he wash their stripes?

Why would he be baptized (in the middle of the night, especially) if all that is necessary is to believe?

(Acts 16:34) And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

Why did he feed them?

Why was he rejoicing?

Does the Bible teach that this man and his family believed in God before or after they were taught?

Does the Bible teach that this man and his family were counted as believing in God before or after they were baptized?

Does the Bible teach that this man and his family rejoiced before or after they were baptized?

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(Acts 16:35) And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let those men go.

What did the magistrates want done the next morning?

(Acts 16:36) And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.

Did the jailer think it was good that Paul was free to go?

(Acts 16:37) But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

Did Paul think it was good that they were being released this way.

What did Paul want to have happen?

(Acts 16:38) And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.

Why were the magistrates afraid?

(Acts 16:39) And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.

What did the magistrates do?

What did the magistrates want them to do?

(Acts 16:40) And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

What did they do before leaving town?

(Acts 17:1) Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:

Where did they go next?

(1 Thessalonians 2:2) But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

Did the mistreatment they received in Philippi stop Paul and Silas from preaching.

(Acts 20:6) And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.

Do we know how long Paul stayed in Philippi on this second trip to the city?

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(Philippians 1:1) Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

Who is Timotheus?

Why might he be mentioned here with Paul?

Is he mentioned with Paul in the greetings of any other letters?

To whom was this letter written?

What are saints?

What are bishops?

What are deacons?

How would someone become a bishop or deacon?

How did a city that did not have enough godly men to have a synagogue have a church with bishops and deacons in such a short time?

(Philippians 1:2) Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

What blessings does Paul mention in his greeting?

From whom do these blessings come?

(Philippians 1:3) I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,

What attitude did Paul have toward these brethren?

How often did Paul thank God?

If you were abused and thrown in jail in a town would you be thankful when you remembered the people of that town?

(Philippians 1:4) Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,

How often did Paul mention them in prayer?

What emotion does Paul have as he is praying for them?

(Philippians 1:5) For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;

What do you think the phrase "fellowship in the gospel" includes?

How long had they had this fellowship with Paul?

(Philippians 1:6) Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

What was Paul confident about?

Who began a good work in them?

How long does Paul believe this work will continue?

(Philippians 1:7) Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.

Can you think of any other group that Paul felt and spoke as kindly toward?

When were the Philippians involved with Paul?

What is "my grace"?

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(Philippians 1:8) For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

Is there anyone in your life that you feel this strongly about?

Is there anyone who feels this way toward you?

(Philippians 1:9) And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;

What does Paul pray for in this verse?

Are love, knowledge, and judgment irreconcilably different?

How can love abound in judgment?

(Philippians 1:10) That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

What are they supposed to approve?

What two characteristics be in their lives according to the latter part of the verse?

How long should they have these characteristics?

(Philippians 1:11) Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

What should they be filled with?

What are some fruits of righteousness?

What is the source of these fruits?

What is the end result of these fruits?

(Philippians 1:12) But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

What did Paul want them to understand?

What are some of the things that had happened to Paul?

What are some examples of Paul's hardships furthering the gospel?

(Philippians 1:13) So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;

What specific place does Paul mention as a place that his imprisonment had impacted?

How widely were Paul's bonds known?

(Philippians 1:14) And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

What was one good result from Paul's bonds?

Would finding out someone was arrested for being a Christian make you more brave or more timid?

Why do you think someone would become more confident under those circumstances?

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(Philippians 1:15) Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:

Have you ever met people who considered themselves Christians but had bad motives and attitudes?

Do you know any preachers that have bad motives and attitudes?

Are there some who have good motives?

What specific bad attitudes does Paul mention here?

What were both groups of individuals preaching?

(Philippians 1:16) The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

What was being preached by this first group?

Why was it being preached?

What does sincerely mean?

Can you think of some reasons that people today might preach Christ insincerely?

Does Paul say that they were teaching false doctrine?

Why would someone want to add to Paul's suffering?

Is it possible that Paul did suffer more because of these people?

(Philippians 1:17) But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.

What was being preached by this second group?

Why was it being preached?

Did these people want Paul to suffer more?

Is it possible that Paul did suffer more because of their preaching?

Would Paul want people to stop preaching if it caused him to suffer more affliction?

(Philippians 1:18) What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

Was there a difference in the doctrinal content of the two groups according to this verse?

What is pretence?

Does Paul condone false teaching?

What was the difference between those that were preaching in pretence and those who were preaching in truth?

Is it possible for someone to be saved by preaching that is done insincerely, of contention and in pretence out of envy and with a desire for strife?

How could Paul rejoice in this kind of preaching?

Did Paul want people to preach this way?

Is it possible for someone to be lost when there is preaching that is done of good will, out of love, and in truth?

How could Paul rejoice in this kind of preaching?

Would Paul have preferred for everyone that was preaching to preach with the right motives?

Would Paul have been happier if the first group had stopped preaching?

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(Philippians 1:19) For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

What will turn to Paul's salvation?

What two things will contribute to this salvation?

Do you think Paul is talking about spiritual salvation, or salvation from prison? Why?

(Philippians 1:20) According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

What did Paul want to be ashamed of?

What did he want to have instead of shame?

What did he want to do for Christ with his body?

What do you think it means to magnify Christ?

(Philippians 1:21) For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Which was better for Paul, death or life?

Can you say that to live is Christ?

Can you say that to die is gain?

Does this verse indicate that Paul had a death wish or was suicidal?

(Philippians 1:22) But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

Paul says "this" is the fruit of his labor, what do you think he is referring to?

Could Paul choose whether he would live or die?

Considering all of the suffering Paul was facing, why do you think it was hard for him to know what was best?

(Philippians 1:23) For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

As Paul reasons out the two sides, which does he say is better?

Why is that better?

How much better was it?

If Paul knew this was so much better why didn't he just choose it right away?

(Philippians 1:24) Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.

What is the reason Paul gives for staying in this life?

If Paul were selfish would this reason matter?

(Philippians 1:25) And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

What is he confident about?

What conclusion does he come to about his life and death puzzle?

Why did Paul draw this conclusion?

What two things did Paul hope were accomplished by his remaining with the living?

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(Philippians 1:26) That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.

What would cause increased rejoicing?

Where was Paul when he wrote this letter?

Do you think Paul ever got to go see them again?

(Philippians 1:27) Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

What does 'conversation' mean?

How well does your 'conversation' recommend the gospel of Christ?

What is the main thing that Paul wanted to hear about them?

Would they be living according to the gospel if they were not unified?

Would they be living according to the gospel if they were not striving for the faith?

What does 'striving together' mean?

(Philippians 1:28) And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

As Christians are we to live in fear?

What fear does Paul want out of their lives?

When the Christians were threatened but didn't back down, what did their enemies think of that?

What was this courageous persistence really a sign of?

How often do you decide what to do based on fear?

When you live by fear does your life get better or worse?

What fear is keeping you from doing something that God wants you to do?

When fear keeps us from doing what God wants, who wins?

How can you overcome that fear to do God's will better?

What does Proverbs 28:1 say about this?

What did Jesus say in Matthew 10:28?

What does 2 Timothy 1:7 tell us about the source of fear?

(Philippians 1:29) For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

What two gifts had the Philippians been given according to this verse?

Have you ever thought of believing in Christ as a gift?

Have you ever felt neglected because you had not been chosen to receive the gift of suffering?

What is the worst thing you have ever suffered for the sake of Christ?

(Philippians 1:30) Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

What conflict did they have?

What had they seen and heard was in Paul?

Have you ever had that same conflict?

Would you like to have that conflict?

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(Philippians 2:1) If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,

Is there any consolation in Christ?

Is there any comfort of love?

Is there any fellowship of the Spirit?

Are you experiencing these benefits of Christianity?

Do you feel loved by the Father?	Christ?	The Spirit?	The brethren?

If you had a crisis in your life, who would you go to first?

If you had a crisis in your life, at what point would you go to fellow Christians or the church as a whole?

(Philippians 2:2) Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

How did Paul say they could make him happy?

Does being likeminded mean agreeing on everything?

Does having the same love mean that we have all the same interests as every other Christian?

What does it mean to be of one accord?

How would these things make Paul feel better about them?

(Philippians 2:3) Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Have you ever done something to a fellow Christian through strife?

Have you ever done something to a fellow Christian to get glory?

If you said yes to either of those, How did that work out for you?

How should a Christian view other Christians?

Is it easier to get along with people who are haughty or humble?

Does this mean that we are to think of ourselves as worthless?

Does this mean that we think someone else is more important to God than we are?

(Philippians 2:4) Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Does this mean we should be sticking our nose in everyone else's business?

Does this mean we should be covetous and greedy?

What does it mean to look on the things of others?

Why do you think we should look on the things of others?

(Philippians 2:5) Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Whose mind should ours be like?

What does it mean to have this mind?

(Philippians 2:6) Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Who was in the form of God?

Does Paul mean that we should think we are equal to God?

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How do you understand the phrase "thought it not robbery"?

Was Jesus equal to God?

(Philippians 2:7) But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

What 3 things did Jesus do that showed an attitude that we should have?

Which of these 3 do you think was hardest for Him?

How would you feel if you lost your reputation?

When was the last time you took the role of service?

(Philippians 2:8) And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

When Jesus came to Earth how did he come?

How did he humble himself?

Can you think of some events in the life of Christ that would have been particularly humiliating for Him as a member of the Godhead?

How obedient was Jesus?

To whom was Jesus obedient?

Why do you think Paul says "even" the death of the cross?

(Philippians 2:9) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

What does this verse say resulted from Jesus' humility and obedience?

What is special about Jesus' name?

(Philippians 2:10) That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

What does this verse say resulted from Jesus' humility and obedience?

What does it mean to bow the knee?

Are you bowing your knee to Jesus?

Do you know people who are not bowing their knee to Jesus?

(Philippians 2:11) And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

What does this verse say resulted from Jesus' humility and obedience?

Does this mean we can live how we want as long as we say Jesus is Lord?

How does confessing Christ as Lord bring glory to the Father?

(Philippians 2:12) Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

If someone only obeys while being watched is he obedient?

How well do you obey when no one is watching?

What does this verse say about the idea of being saved without obedience and work?

What two things are supposed to go along with our work according to this verse?

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(Philippians 2:13) For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Who works in the Christian?

What two reasons are there for that work?

From the previous verse, what is it that all of this work is ultimately going to produce?

(Philippians 2:14) Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

What two things should we always do without?

What does it mean to murmur?

What is disputing?

Why do you think that God wants us to do without those two things?

(Philippians 2:15) That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

What does Paul say you will be as a result of avoiding murmuring and disputing?(4 things)

What kind of nation did the Philippians live in?

How do you think our nation would compare to theirs?

What would the Philippian Christians be compared to those around them?

Did Paul think that the Christians in Philippi should fit in?

Does God want us to be like those around us?

Do you think the people around them appreciated their godliness?

(Philippians 2:16) Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

What were they supposed to be holding?

Why did Paul want them to keep holding it?

What did Paul feel would be the result for him if they did not hold on?

How would Paul's run and labor be in vain if he was faithful?

(Philippians 2:17) Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

How would Paul feel differently if they remained faithful?

What was Paul willing to do for them?

Would he rejoice if he offered himself and they did not continue to serve God in their faith?

(Philippians 2:18) For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

What attitude did he want them to have?

Is joy better when there are others to share in it with you?

With whom do you share your joy?

Who shares their joy with you?

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(Philippians 2:19) But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

Who does Paul trust?

Who did Paul want to send to them?

What does Paul want to know?

What will that knowledge do for Paul's concerns?

(Philippians 2:20) For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

Why was Timothy unique?

What would Timothy do that no one else would?

(Philippians 2:21) For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

What were others interested in seeking?

What did most people, even Paul's companions, not seek?

How different are people today?

How many people like Timothy have you met who are care for others?

How many people do you know that are more interested in Christ's things than their own?

(Philippians 2:22) But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.

Had they met Timothy before?

What kind of relationship did Paul have with Timothy?

What did Timothy do with Paul?

What is the difference in Paul's and Timothy's relationship and wearing a religious title?

(Philippians 2:23) Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.

Why had Paul not sent Timothy yet?

What was he waiting to find out?

(Philippians 2:24) But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.

Did Paul want to go back to Philippi?

Do we have any record of him making that trip?

(Philippians 2:25) Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

Who was Paul sending instead of Timothy at this point?

Who was Epaphroditus to Paul?

Who was Epaphroditus to the Philippians?

What had he done for Paul?

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(Philippians 2:26) For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.

What was Epaphroditus' attitude toward the Philippian Christians?

Why was Epaphroditus sad?

(Philippians 2:27) For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

How sick was Epaphroditus?

If Paul believed it was better to depart and be with the Lord, why does he say letting Epaphroditus live was God having mercy on him?

How was this merciful to Paul?

(Philippians 2:28) I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.

How did Paul send Epaphroditus?

Why did Paul send him?

How would sending him away make Paul less sorrowful?

(Philippians 2:29) Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:

What attitude should they have when they received Epaphroditus?

What does it mean to "hold such in reputation"?

(Philippians 2:30) Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.

Why had Epaphroditus been sick and near death?

What was he trying to do when he got sick?

What had he been willing to risk for the work of Christ?

(Philippians 3:1) Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

What limit to the command to rejoice does Paul give?

Why is Paul writing the same things to them that they have heard before?

Do you ever get tired of telling someone the same thing over and over again?

(Philippians 3:2) Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.

What 3 groups does Paul warn them of?

Which is probably figurative?

Do you think these are 3 different groups or 3 descriptions of one group?

Why do you think Paul warns of these things?

What does "concision" mean now?

What did concision mean 400 years ago (hint: look in the dictionary for a definition that has "obs." before it for obsolete. That is a definition that is no longer used.)?

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(Philippians 3:3) For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

Were the Philippians physically circumcised?

Who does Paul say are part of this "circumcision" group?

Where should our confidence not be placed?

(Philippians 3:4) Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:

If confidence came from physical things, would Paul have been confident?

Compared to Paul, how well had others done physically?

Why does Paul turn down this line of discussion?

What people thought that they could be right with God through their own efforts?

(Philippians 3:5) Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;

Was Paul physically circumcised?

What was significant about the eighth day?

Paul was part of which tribe?

What do you think he means by "Hebrew of the Hebrews"?

What is important about him having been a Pharisee?

(Philippians 3:6) Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

How had Paul shown his zeal when he was a Jew?

How did Paul think he had done at keeping the law?

With all of these things could Paul have thought he was on good standing ground with God?

(Philippians 3:7) But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

What trade did Paul make?

How did Paul's attitude change during this trade?

(Philippians 3:8) Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

Did Paul think that trading all of those acts of righteousness from the law for Christ was a good trade?

What value did Paul consider all of those things to have compared to having Christ?

(Philippians 3:9) And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

Where did Paul want to be found?

Which righteousness is of value with God, your own or what comes through faith in Christ?

What is the difference in these two types of righteousness?

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(Philippians 3:10) That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

Who did Paul want to know?

What 2 things did Paul want to know?

What did he want to be?

(Philippians 3:11) If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

What was Paul's goal?

(Philippians 3:12) Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

Had Paul reached his goal?

Did Paul think he had done enough and could quit growing?

Was Paul perfect?

What did he want to apprehend?

How does this verse impact the idea that once you are saved you are always saved?

(Philippians 3:13) Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

Did Paul believe that his eternal life could not be lost?

What is the one thing that Paul was determined to do (2 part action)?

(Philippians 3:14) I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

What was Paul pressing toward?

(Philippians 3:15) Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

What is the difference in the word perfect in this verse and verse 12?

What mind-set should all perfect Christians have?

Do you think there is a miraculous revealing referred to in this verse or is it something we can expect today?

(Philippians 3:16) Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

Has everyone attained the same level of maturity?

Who gets to decide what rule we should walk by?

What are we supposed to mind?

(Philippians 3:17) Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

Who does Paul want the Philippians to follow in this verse?

Who should they mark?

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(Philippians 3:18) (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

What kind of people is Paul warning the church about in this verse?

What attitude did Paul have as he shared this teaching?

Is this the first time he had warned them about these people?

Were there only a few people in this category?

Are there people today in this category?

How could we recognize those who are enemies of the cross of Christ?

(Philippians 3:19) Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

What is the end of those who are enemies of the cross?

What false god do they serve?

In what do they glory?

Where is their mind?

What are some characteristics of people who are enemies of Christ's cross?

(Philippians 3:20) For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

What does it mean for our "conversation" to be in Heaven?

Where are we to be looking for our Savior?

Who is to be our Savior?

Can someone have Jesus as Savior without His cross?

Are there some religious groups today that try to remove the cross from Christianity?

(Philippians 3:21) Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

What will Jesus change when He returns from Heaven?

What will He change it to be?

How will He make this change?

What else is He able to do?

(Philippians 4:1) Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

What is this "Therefore" there for?

How does Paul feel about the Philippians?

What are they to him?

What does he urge them to do?

Why do you think he warns them to do that?

What should we do?

Are you ever tempted to try to have Christ and Christianity without the cross?

How can we fight against the desire to take the cross out of Christianity?

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(Philippians 4:2) I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

What does "beseech" mean?

Why do you think Paul uses this word twice?

What can you learn about who Euodias and Syntyche are?

What does Paul want from them?

(Philippians 4:3) And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

Who do you think the true yokefellow is?

What does Paul want this person to do?

What had Euodias and Syntyche done in the past?

Who else is mentioned in this verse?

Are any of these people mentioned anywhere else?

Where are there names?

Had the problem between Euodias and Syntyche caused their names to be removed?

(Philippians 4:4) Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

What message is important enough to be repeated?

What other verses in Philippians command the same thing?

(Philippians 4:5) Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

What is moderation?

Can a Christian do anything as long as it is done in moderation?

What does it mean for the Lord to be at hand?

How does the Lord being at hand encourage our moderation?

(Philippians 4:6) Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Why does Paul not want them to be careful?

How do we let God know our requests?

What attitude should we have when we ask?

What does "supplication" mean?

How does asking God help us overcome our cares?

(Philippians 4:7) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Can we understand the peace of God?

How can God's peace keep our hearts and minds?

How can we receive this blessing of peace?

Should those who are not Christians think they can receive the peace of God?

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(Philippians 4:8) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Does it matter what we think about?

Does this verse teach us to ignore the sinful things that exist in the world?

(Philippians 4:9) Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

What 4 things does Paul tell the Philippians to do?

Will God be with those who say they believe, but do not do?

What part of God's character does Paul emphasize in this verse?

(Philippians 4:10) But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

Why did Paul rejoice?

Did Paul say that the Philippians did not care for him?

What was the reason their care for Paul had failed for a time?

(Philippians 4:11) Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

Was Paul rejoicing because he wanted the money they were sending?

What had Paul learned?

Have you learned what Paul learned?

(Philippians 4:12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

What does it mean to be 'abased'?

What is the longest time you have ever had to go hungry?

Do you think Paul had gone hungry longer than that or not that long?

What need have you ever suffered?

(Philippians 4:13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

How was Paul able to be content in any circumstance?

Can we learn to be content through Christ?

Is Paul talking about being able to do miracles here?

Can we do all things through Christ?

(Philippians 4:14) Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

Did Paul think they were wasting their money to send it to him?

What does 'communicate' mean in this verse?

What affliction was Paul suffering?

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(Philippians 4:15) Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

After Paul left Macedonia what did the Philippians do that no one else did?

(Philippians 4:16) For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

Where was Paul when they had helped him?

How many times had the Philippians helped him?

(Philippians 4:17) Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

Was Paul greedy?

Why was Paul glad that they were giving?

(Philippians 4:18) But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

Who brought the gift from Philippi?

What else did Paul need them to send?

How did God view their gift?

(Philippians 4:19) But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

What was God going to do for the Philippians?

(Philippians 4:20) Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Who should receive glory?

For how long should He receive glory?

(Philippians 4:21) Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you.

Who should they salute?

Who was greeting them?

(Philippians 4:22) All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household.

Who was saluting them?

What special group is mentioned?

(Philippians 4:23) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

What did he wish for them to have?

Why does Paul end with 'Amen'?

What does 'Amen' mean?

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