Study
1 – Philippians 1:1-6
Verses 1,2
1. How
would you describe your relationship with the Lord? What words come to mind?
2. Paul
here describes himself and Timothy as 'slaves' of Jesus. What does that convey
to you? How would that kind of reality become visible in our own lives?
3. Paul
then describes the Philippians as 'saints' (people belonging to God). His use
of the word is very different to our own culture! Reflect on what it means for
you to belong to Jesus.
4. The
letter is also addressed, unusually, to the overseers (elders) and deacons. Why
might Paul choose to highlight them in his greeting?
Verses 3-6
5. Paul's
prayers for the Philippians are full of thanksgiving, even though there are issues
he will need to address in their life together. How can we ensure our own
prayers for our brothers and sisters are similarly thankful?
6. The
joy Paul feels is, in large measure, due to their partnership in sharing
the good news of Jesus, "from the first day until now". How can we
encourage such joy in our life together? What will it mean for us to be
partners in God's purposes of rescue and mercy?
7. Despite
issues present in the church at Philippi, Paul is confident about their future.
On what is his confidence based? How might such confidence impact your own
daily life and your prayers for the Lord's people and work?
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