Pressing Towards Love and Peace [Philippians 1.1-5]

The book of Philippians is a letter from Paul from his prison in Rome at the end of his life to the church at Phillipi, which he had planted much earlier in his ministry. Throughout this book, Paul communicates to the Philippians the great love that he has for them through the Gospel and the immense encouragement and power that the Gospel has, even amongst great trials. He urges them to press on to the Author and Perfecter of our faith, being Jesus, and to embrace the Church around them.

As we go on through our COVID filled world, I urge you to seize the love and comfort that Gospel has to offer, and press on towards the ultimate goal of a life filled with Christ.


Philippians 1.1-5

1 Paul and Timothy,  of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseer and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Who is the author of this letter and who is with him?

+ Who is Paul addressing this letter to? How does this change the perception of what the rest of the book will say?

+ What is Paul emphasizing in his first blessing to the Philippians and us by extension?

+ Why is the order of Grace then Peace important?

+ Why does Paul thank God for the Philippians?

+ What does it mean to be in partnership in the gospel?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there a sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ What is the role of first grace then peace in your life? 

+ Who is in your prayers and who do you thank God for in your life?

+ How are you being a partner in the gospel?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ How can I share this gospel that Paul is so thankful for?