Philippians 3:12-4:1

Philippians 3:12—4:1

by Bethan Perry

Introduction to Philippians

Paul is in prison, probably in Rome in 60AD and he’s writing a letter to the church in Philippi. Acts 16 tells us of Paul’s first journey to Philippi where Lydia became a Christian, a demon-possessed girl was freed, and the town jailer famously asked, “What must I do to be saved?” He and his family trusted in Jesus as Lord and Saviour. Go read Acts 16 and imagine some of those people now in the church in Philippi, listening to Paul’s letter being read out.

Starter Question: Where or with whom do you feel most comfortable? Where do you think you belong?

Q1. What motivates Paul to keep going in his faith v12-14?

Q2. What do we learn about Jesus in verses 12, 14, 20-21?

Q3. Paul is saddened by those who live their lives opposing the cross of Jesus. What do their lives look like according to v18-19?

Q4. In 4:1 Paul encourages the Philippians to stand firm in the Lord. How does knowing where we belong (v20-21) help in standing firm?

Personal Reflection:

How do I make my life-goals all about Jesus? What attitudes/habits do I need to adopt? What attitudes and habits do I need to get rid of?
If Jesus has made me his own (v12) and my citizenship is in heaven (v20) how should that change the way I view myself, my time, my money, my relationships?