For Sunday, March 13, 2011

Bible Study preparation for March 13, 2011.
1) Philippians 1:12-18
What was Paul’s circumstances while he was writing this letter?
What conflict were the Philippian believers facing?
In modern days, what are some of the “wrong motives” of some people who preach about Jesus Christ? What would the “right motives” be? What word or words would you use to describe Paul’s attitude in this passage?

2) Philippians 1:18-20
What is the focus of Paul’s life? Which of his words prove this? What evidence is there beyond his words? What does it mean for Christ to be exalted or highly honored in a person’s body? When Paul said deliverance, what did he mean? Note how verse 20 ends.

3) Philippians 1:21-26
What did Paul mean in verse 21? What was the personal dilemma he was discussing in these verses? Can you identify with his feelings expressed in this passage? What did Paul see as his purpose for remaining on earth? How can having purpose change a person’s attitude and motivation in life?

4) Philippians 1:27-30
What does it mean to conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel? Can any Christian achieve this? How? What goals did Paul have for the Philippian Christians? Can you sum up these goals in one or two words? What positive way did Paul view the Christians’ opponents? How did Paul instruct them to view suffering? How do you view suffering in your own life?