Philippians Chapter 1
A beautiful truth is found in this first chapter of the letter Paul wrote to the believers at Philippi. Philippians 1:6And 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. This is true for all of us – God has a purpose for each of us being on this earth, and that purpose will be completed when we see Jesus! When Paul thinks about the people he is writing to, he is remembering the drastic change that came about when they gave their life to Christ. That moment of new birth set them on a course of being in partnership with the gospel. And when Paul thinks about their new lives he is filled with joy.
Let's Reflect
1. As Paul expresses his feelings towards the believers at Phillipi he uses an expression of love that we would use when describing how we love a close relative. What expression does he use in verse 7?
2. Paul wants only the best for the believers, much like a parent wants only the best for their children. In verses 9-11 what are some things that he expresses he wants for the believers?
3. While believers, or people of “the way” have been persecuted for their faith, Paul himself has been imprisoned and yet bold to share the gospel with even the prison guards. What did the boldness of Paul cause other believers to do?
4. Paul mentioned that he knew there were preachers who were glad he was imprisoned giving them a chance to gain notoriety. And others preached because they loved Paul and they loved Jesus - they wanted to pick up the torch and carry on with the work that Paul had started. Paul said no matter what the motive of the preacher was he was glad that they were preaching the gospel of Christ. This caused Paul to do what? See verse 18.
5. Paul knew that while he was imprisoned the Philippian believers were doing something for him. What were they doing for Paul?
6. Paul was in prison waiting for the trial before Caesar. He knew that he could be sentenced to death. Paul knew that whether he was delivered or whether he was killed that somehow God would use it to bring glory to Himself. Why did Paul say that if he was to die, it would be his gain?
7. Paul felt that his life would be spared at this time. Why did he think that? See verses 24-26.
8. Regardless of what happened to himself, Paul wanted to hear good things about the church at Philippi. He wanted them to stand strong in their faith. He wanted them to practice unity, and to work side by side to further the gospel, and to not be afraid of their opponents. All of these behaviors would be a testimony to the world, or you could say it would be the proof. What would the church be proving? See verse 28.
