Overview
In this 9-session study, you’ll learn about the Christians in Philippi via the Book of Acts and Paul’s epistle. This study guide examines important topics such as prayer, encouragement, joy, suffering, generosity, and faithfulness.
Introduction
Getting the Most Out of Philippians
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study, and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.
Session One
The God Who Pursues Us
Paul writes to the Philippians that he is “confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). This study examines how God began the good work in Philippi.
Acts 16:6–34
Session Two
An Encouraging Example
Paul began many of his letters with a prayer of thanksgiving, but Philippians begins with a prayer of unusually great warmth and affirmation. This study invites us to consider what Paul’s opening prayer reveals about his relationship with the Christians in Philippi and how this passage can speak to our own discipleship.
Philippians 1:1–11
Session Three
Joy in the Worst of Times
Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians from prison. Yet even in these awful circumstances, Paul’s first concern was that Christ be praised. This session explores how we can honor Christ in difficult situations.
Philippians 1:12–30
Session Four
The Path of Humility
In this study Paul asks us to imitate Christ in his humility by taking on the attitude of a servant.
Philippians 2:1–18
Session Five
Servants of Christ
In this section of Philippians, Paul outlines his future plans The passage gives several beautiful examples of Christian service as displayed in the lives of Timothy, Epaphroditus, Paul, and the Philippians.
Philippians 2:19–30
Session Six
Rejoice in the Lord
This study examines a passage in which Paul contrasts his old life of misery with his new life of rejoicing, inviting us to join him in joy.
Philippians 3:1–11
Session Seven
Onward to the Goal
Paul uses the language of an athlete preparing for the biggest race of his life as he describes his dedication to reaching heaven. In this study, Paul will act as our coach, challenging us to his high level of devotion to spiritual goals.
Philippians 3:12–4:1
Session Eight
Stress-Free Living
Paul was living with many powerful stressors, yet he seemed to be strangely at peace. In this study Paul reveals some of the secrets of his peace.
Philippians 4:2–9
Session Nine
A Guide for Living
Making biblical choices in our giving is a big responsibility that can bring great joy into our lives. In this study, we examine what we can learn from the thanks Paul offered the Philippians for a gift of money they sent.
Philippians 4:10–23
Total number of pages: 68
Donald Baker is pastor of First Reformed Church of Doon, Iowa, and Bethel Reformed Church of Lester, Iowa. He formerly served as a staff member with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.
