This week we are starting the study of the book of Philippians. The author is Paul and he wrote this letter to show us how to live our lives as Christians and reflect Christ in our words and actions.
The format of our reading plan is a little different. The book of Philippians has four chapters and we will read one chapter a day Monday through Thursday and take Friday to reflect on our reading. We will do that for four weeks, with each week focusing on a different aspect of the message.
So this week we’re focused on getting an overview of the letter. We’ll become familiar with the circumstances Paul wrote in and connect the letter with the story of Acts, so the next time you read it you can start digging in.
One thing to keep in mind as you read this week: our thinking and attitude greatly affect the way we live out our lives in faith.
Monday April 5th, 2021, Phil. 1:1-30
Today’s Takeaways:
- Paul is writing a letter to the church in Philippi from his home arrest in Rome (remember we just read about that at the end of Acts?). It was probably written in the 50s AD.
- Paul explains his current circumstances to the Philippians and writes with affection about them. He also advises to them how to conduct themselves in his absence.
Today’s Talking Points:
- How does Paul feel about the Philippians?
- How does he feel about his current circumstances and the potential threat of death?
Tuesday April 6th, 2021, Phil. 2:1-30
Today’s Takeaways:
- Living up to Christ’s example is no easy task. And being asked to do everything in our lives without grumbling and complaining is a pretty tall order. But that is what is asked of us!
- Paul also talks about his trusted sidekicks Timothy (who we know well from Acts) and Epaphroditus (a man from Philippi who was sent to check on Paul).
Today’s Talking Points:
- Verses 15-16 talk about being the light. Can you remember what the light represents and what darkness represents? Can you think of other parts of the Bible where it talks about light and/or darkness?
- Listen to this song as you reflect on verses 9-11.
Wednesday April 7th, 2021 Phil. 3:1-21
Today’s Takeaways:
- Our focus should be on Christ.
- Paul talks about himself and all the things he has done. But he thinks nothing is more important than knowing Jesus.
- Nobody is perfect, even Paul, but we should all strive towards the perfect example of Christ.
Today’s Talking Points:
- Paul is using some pretty mean words in verse 2 – who is he referring to and why do you think he’s using such strong words?
- For Paul, what is the most valuable thing in life (verses 7&8)
Thursday April 8th, 2021 Phil. 4:1-23
Today’s Takeaways:
- In verses 2 & 3, Paul references two women and a real life situation to illustrate his wider point on how to resolve conflicts between Christians.
- As believers, it is important to be well-grounded in prayer and thanksgiving and to offer praise and to give God thanks for the many provisions we are blessed with.
Today’s Talking Points:
- What does it mean to “agree in the Lord” or “be of the same mind in the Lord”? Why is it important and what would that look like in your life?
- If you are looking for a scripture to memorize, try verses 4-7. Our preschoolers have learned these verses before, so anyone can do it J
Friday April 9th, 2021
Today’s Takeaways:
- Paul’s letter to the Philippians is such an encouraging work. After reading the whole letter, what is the first thing that comes to mind when you reflect on it? Please spend today and the weekend meditating on that. And ask God to open your heart to this letter over the next three weeks.
Munger Kids 