I was feeling the need to dive back into Bible study in the chaos that is our summer. I teach at churches and camps, travel across the United States and England. I watch England in the World Cup. I need an anchor for my soul. I believe Philippians will provide a secure mooring.
- Preserve Unity
Like our own circumstances, circumstances in first century Philippi were messed up. Paul wanted to preserve unity but he needed to provide a vision powerful enough for the church family to rally around.
2. Resolve Conflict
Two members of the church family were fighting. Paul provides a lesson in conflict resolution. God is the God of peace who calms anxiety as well as raging seas.
3. Endure Suffering
When Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians he was in jail awaiting possible execution. How does a person endure the physical and mental anguish and still reach out to touch others? Paul reveals the secret to his strength.
4. Embrace Joy
A number of times, Paul tells his readers to rejoice. How is joy different from happiness? Paul encourages his readers to embrace joy, and he also tells them how to become joyful.
5. Read God’s Word
Christians for centuries have embraced Bible reading as a foundation for growth. In fact, it is very hard to grow without sound teaching. Christians claim the Bible is God’s Word. If God has communicated guidelines for living life well, we will be healthy if we live them out.
Plymothian 