Read Phil. 4:1-7 – Instruction on the Christian Life
1. This chapter begins with Paul expressing his love for the believers at Philippi. He then urges them to “stand fast in the Lord”. What does it mean to stand fast?
a. What else are we told to “stand fast” in? See 1 Cor 16:13, Gal 5:1, Phil 1:27
b. What might be the opposite of “stand fast”?
2. Whenever there are people working together, disagreements arise. Even in the early church there were disputes which seems to be what is referred to in verse 2. Notice that Paul doesn’t take sides, but only gives them one instruction. What is it?
a. Paul also instructs others to assist them in working things out (vs3). How might this be an example for us to follow?
b. “Help” in verse 3 means “to assist by holding together.” It may indicate the divisive nature of the dispute. What is the potential danger here?
3. Verses 4 and 5 may seem out of place, but I believe they are perfectly placed! How might these two verses relate to verses 2 and 3?
4. Verses 6 and 7 are verses we know well. They hold God’s solution to worry. What do they tell us to replace worry with?
a. What will be the result?
b. What does this guard? Explain.
Read Phil. 4:8-9 – Our Thoughts
1. One of Satan’s favorite and most effective areas of attack are those on our thoughts. How have you experienced this?
2. In verse 8, Paul gives us a way to battle this attack. Summarize his instructions.
3. Verse 9 again encourages us to look to Paul’s example. To what things does it refer?
Read Phil. 4:10-13 – Contentment
1. The care referenced in verse 10 was also referred to in Chapter 2. Paul rejoiced that the Philippians were givers who cared for Paul. Nonetheless, Paul did not live a life of comfort, yet still he rejoiced. We have much to learn from verses 11-13. Define “content”.
2. In what circumstances is Paul content? (vs 12)
3. Paul says he has “learned” to be content. (vs 11) How might he have learned this and what can we learn from his example?
4. Verse 13 is often taken out of context. It actually refers to Paul’s ability to be content in all circumstances. In order for Paul to rest in this contentment, what did Paul need?
5. It is important to see that Paul’s contentment did not mean that he wasn’t in need. Rather, what does it tell us?
6. This seems to go against today’s entitled society. What are your thoughts on this?
Read Phil. 4:14-23 – Encouragement to the Philippian Believers
1. In this closing section of his letter Paul again refers to the care he has been shown by the Philippians. Here Paul gives us another perspective about giving. What do we learn from verse 17 about giving?
2. Furthermore, in verse 18 he gives us more insight into the gift. In what 3 ways is it described? What do these 3 things mean?
3. Though the giving for Paul’s support may have been a sacrifice, how does Paul encourage them? (vs 19)
a. According to what does God supply needs? How does this stretch our understanding?
b. Jesus speaks to this in the Sermon on the Mount. What do we learn from Matt 6:25-34?
c. There is great confidence in Paul’s words when he says God will supply their needs. Is this a promise for you also? Why or why not?
4. Paul closes his letter with greetings. Those who are of Caesar’s household refer to prison guards. What does this tell us about Paul’s 2 years under house arrest?
5. Paul wrote this letter while in chains, yet he speaks of contentment and rejoicing. What are some of the things we can learn from Paul’s example?