Philippians 1: 18b – 26
- What will Paul continue to do?
- In what tense is this passage written?
- What is Paul torn between?
- What is the foundation of Paul’s rejoicing?
- What is the foundation of your future rejoicing?
Paul transitions from the present to the future. It is a future that he knows little about. He is confident that the outcome of his imprisonment will glorify Christ. He is not sure whether it will be life or death. Although Paul personally would prefer death, he would give that up in order to serve the Philippians. This self-sacrifice is the foundation of the unity that he wants for the Philippians. Doesn’t it sound strange to our modern ears to give up the chance of dying in order to do God’s work on earth?
Going Deeper
Observation
- What will the Philippians supply that will turn Paul’s experience into a deliverance?
- What does Paul eagerly expect and hope?
- What will living mean for Paul?
- What is more necessary to Paul?
- Why will Paul continue with the Philippians?
Interpretation
- How is the cause of Paul’s rejoicing similar in this passage to the rejoicing in the present that preceded?
- If Paul is killed, what might people think that would still give glory to Jesus?
- Is Paul suicidal?
- How exactly does Paul model humility in this passage?
- How would the example of Paul in this passage lead to unity?
Application
- Is the main cause of your future rejoicing whether the cause of Jesus is upheld through your life?
- How could your future plans cause people to praise Christ at work in you?
- Can you name any modern martyrs? Could you be one?
- How can we pray for each other that the Holy Spirit will work in powerful ways?
- How will your future bring happiness to the future of your family, your small-group, church, and work-place?
Plymothian 