Philippians 1:1-11

Read through Philippians 1:1-11. Keep in mind what had happened during Paul’s trip to Philippi: he was beaten, illegally arrested, and humiliated before the people there. As you read, jot down any questions you have or any details that stand out.

A Closer Look:
Observation #1: Paul is writing to the believers of Philippi, including the “elders and deacons.” What does this tell us?

• That the believers had continued to gather together, even after Paul and Silas left Philippi
• That the “gathering” started to resemble what we know as “church” – deacons were responsible for the upkeep of the building/home where the people met for prayer
• That the church in Philippi was growing – there are at least two elders and at least two deacons (churches add staff as the congregation grows)

Observation #2: Paul refers to the Philippians as “partners in spreading the Good News about Christ.” What does this mean?

• “Partners” is a word that describes people who contribute financially
• The believers of Philippi had sent supplies to Paul when he was in prison (see Philippians 4:14-19)
• Since the church at Philippi was growing, it’s also logical to conclude that they had been sharing the Good News with others in their community

Observation #3: Paul prays for the Philippian believers. What does he pray for?

• Love – “that your love for each other will overflow more and more”
• Knowledge – “that you will keep on growing in your knowledge and understanding”
• Wisdom – “I want you to understand what really matters”
• Character – “that you may live pure and blameless lives”
• Fruit of the Spirit – that “you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation…”

Read through Philippians 1:1-11 again.

Questions:

1. How would you describe the Philippian believers now? Do they remind you of anyone you know?
2. Have you ever had someone contribute financially to a mission trip or camp for you? How did that gift help you? (Go ahead and write them a thank-you note!)
3. Paul mentions the “fruit of salvation”, which points us to the “fruit of the Spirit.” Read through Galatians 5:22-23. Are these “fruits” showing up in your life? Read through John 15 to find out how to “bear fruit.”
4. What can we learn about God from this passage?

Challenge: Pray through Philippians 1:9-11 every day this week. Pray for love, knowledge, wisdom, character, and the fruit of the Spirit – not only in your life, but in the lives of others. Include your family members, your friends, your small group leaders, your teachers, your youth pastors, etc.

(Feel free to comment and discuss this passage of Scripture by clicking on the “comments” link below.)