Page 84 - Advanced New Testament Survey Student Textbook

and he thanks them for their generous gifts (4:10–20). The letter ends with a final greeting and
benediction (4:21–23). 120

Outline
• Introduction and Paul’s report (1:1–26)
• Call to unity (1:27–2:30)
• Warnings against false teachers (3:1–21)
• Further instructions and thanksgiving (4:1–23) 121

How does Philippians impact our lives?
Philippians 1:1 – 29 – Though it seems clear that Paul’s main purpose of this chapter is to give thanks to
the Church in Philippi, he touches on a number of different important doctrines along the way. Some of
those being: sanctification (v.6), preaching of the gospel (12-18), the purpose of life and benefit of death
(19-26), and living a life worthy of the gospel (27-30). The most challenging was V.29. Living in this
generation in which most of the sermons heard seem to suggest that when you are in Christ everything
becomes easy. We highly needed V.29 to prepare us for the realistic challenges in Christianity.

When have you experienced a sense of sharing in the ministry of the gospel (Phil 1:5, 7, 27)? Have you
ever witnessed the gospel advancing in the middle of failure or hardship (Phil 1:12)?
How do you connect with Christ’s work in the world? What obstacles do you encounter as you strive for
the gospel (Phil 1:27)? If you’ve never been involved in spreading the gospel, what steps might you take
to change that? What challenges would you likely face?

Philippians 2:14 – 15 – Chapter 2 has a lot to speak to us, more especially on following Christ’s example
of unity and humility (vv.1-4, 5-9). Another theme that runs alongside humility is obedience, and the two
seem to be presented as inseparable. How has the humility of Christ affected your conduct? How do you
plan to encourage others to emulate Christ’s humility and obedience?

Paul exhorts his audience to look out for the interests of others (Phil 2:4). What do you think that might
look like in everyday life? What does having the mind of Christ mean for you (Phil 2:5)?
Paul holds up Timothy and Epaphroditus as worthy examples for believers to follow (Phil 2:19–30). How
do you identify a good model of Christian faith? Who can you look up to as you follow Christ?
What have you had to count as loss for the sake of Christ (Phil 3:7–8)? How does Paul’s perspective
connect with yours? What do you need to set aside so that you can pursue Christ?

Philippians 3:20 – This passage helps comfort Christians going through persecution, poverty,
discrimination, and all kinds of injustices. These are more reasons why we are to eagerly look forward to
the glorious coming of the Lord Jesus! How do you show eagerness to the coming of Christ?

120 Ibid
121 Ibid

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