As a congregation we are encouraging personal Bible reading at home. Take November to read and live with Paul's letter to the Philippians. Below are some questions to ponder.
Chapter 1 (Week 1)
1. Paul uses the word "joy" or "rejoice" 4 times in chapter one. Why is he joyful? How can he be joyful in his situation? Are you joyful? Why or why not?
2. Paul recognizes and thanks the congregation for their sharing in the work of the Gospel (vs. 3-11). The Christian life is a group effort. How is that true or not true for you?
3. As much as we like life and ought to preserve it, as Christians, Paul seems to say that we certainly should not fear death (vs. 19-24). Why not? What do you think?
Chapter 2 (Week 2)
1. The way of the world says, "You're #1" - that is, look out and care for SELF. What ethic does Paul out forth in vs. 1-4?
2. From where does this ethic and life style come? (see vs. 6-11)
3. Though Paul clearly understands salvation as a gift from God, he nonetheless instructs us to "work out" that salvation in our own life. What does he mean? How are you working that out in your life? In your church here at Faith?
4. How many times does, "joy" and 'rejoice" show up in this chapter?
Chapter 3 (Week 3)
1. We are nearing Reformation Sunday as I write this. It's interesting that Luther, as Paul before him (vs. 2-11) comprehends that NOTHING - going to confession, fasting, works, being a Pharisee - makes us right with God. In fact, those things can get in the way of truly following Jesus. What does make you right with God? (see vs. 8)
2. In verses 12-16, Paul alludes to sports, probably the Olympic games. How is the Christian faith like a foot race? Are you in spiritual shape? What kind of training are you doing?
3. In verse 20, Paul says that our citizenship is in heaven. Might this be the source of his, "joy"?
Chapter 4 (Week 4)
1. In chapter 4 he uses"joy" and "rejoice" again! How many times? How many in total?
2. Popular psychologists and spiritual gurus who wrote, "The Secret" council us to think our ways to healing and success. Hey, Paul said that (vs. 8-9) nearly 2000 years ago! However, he rightly sees that it is a grace and gift from God, and our thinking on those things only make s it better and reflects God's glory in the world. Is your glass half full or half empty?
3. Are you "at peace" and content with what you have? Do you know THE SECRET? (vs. 11-20) If you ever are bummed out, depressed, feeling sorry for yourself and down in the dumps, maybe this would be a good book to reread!