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PHILIPPIANS
HOW TO HAVE JOY

via Archbishop Uwe AE.Rosenkranz

ISBN 978-1-62119-307-4
© 2014 Precept Ministries International. All rights reserved.
This material is published by and is the sole property of Precept Ministries International of Chattanooga, Tennessee. No part of this publication may be reproduced, translated, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Precept, Precept Ministries International, Precept Ministries International The Inductive Bible Study People, the Plumb Bob design, Precept Upon Precept, In & Out, Sweeter than Chocolate!, Cookies on the Lower Shelf, Precepts For Life, Precepts From God’s Word and Transform Student Ministries are trademarks of Precept Ministries International.

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are from the New American Standard Bible, ©1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.lockman.org

1st edition

CONTENTS
LESSONS

LESSON ONE: Overview
LESSON TWO: Chapter 1 Observation Worksheet and Historical Background
LESSON THREE: Chapter 1
LESSON FOUR: Chapter 2 Observation Worksheet and 2:1–11
LESSON FIVE: Chapter 2:12–30
LESSON SIX: Chapter 3 Observation Worksheet and 3:1–9
LESSON SEVEN: Chapter 3:10–21
LESSON EIGHT: Chapter 4 Observation Worksheet and 4:1–7
LESSON NINE: Chapter 4:8–23

APPENDIX

Observation Worksheets
How to Do a Chapter Study

LESSON ONE

Overview
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Observation Worksheets on Philippians, located in the Appendix

Philippians—a wellspring of spiritual truths that has brought countless believers new joy and peace in their daily walk. You will find Philippians a beautiful and a profitable book. It contains many principles of life that will literally transform your attitude toward people and circumstances as you become a doer of those things which you are about to learn in the next nine weeks.

You need to discipline yourself to study daily rather than cramming all your study into one sitting. To understand God’s truth there must be meditation and prayer. Joshua 1:8 says that we should meditate on God’s Word night and day so that we may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then we will make our way prosperous, and then we will have success. You may get right answers in one “cramming” session, but in all probability, you will miss many precious jewels of insight that come only through prayerful meditation.
DAY ONE

Inductive Bible study begins with the Bible itself. It is finding out what the Bible says. However, all the good study habits and methods in the world will mean very little to the student of God’s Word apart from the revelation of the Holy Spirit. John 14:26; John 16:13; and 1 Corinthians 2:6–16 teach us that it is the work of the indwelling Spirit to reveal and to guide us into all truth. So always begin with prayer, Beloved, asking God to guide you into His truth (John 16:13).

1. If you have never done a Precept course before, it might be helpful to read the chapters entitled “The Rule of Context—Context Rules!” and “Getting the Big Picture” in How to Study Your Bible.

The purpose of this first lesson is to discover the context of the book of Philippians. This lesson lays the foundation for all the other lessons. Since context rules interpretation and Scripture must always be interpreted in light of its context, the first step in your study of a letter (epistle) is to begin with the Overview (the view of the entire book) to discover the context.

Since Philippians is a letter, the place to begin your study is with the author because he is the first person mentioned in this book. Therefore, the first step in our study will be to identify what the book tells you about the author. Then as you evaluate these facts, you will begin to see the context of Philippians unfold right before your eyes. It’s exciting and you are going to be awed by what you see.

2. Now let’s begin. Read Philippians and mark in blue each mention of the author’s name and the pronouns that refer specifically to him, such as I, me, my.

You can use the Observation Worksheets, located in the Appendix, for assignments. These Observation Worksheets are just what they say—worksheets. They contain the text of Philippians from the New American Standard Bible printed double-spaced. We encourage you to use these and then transfer the most important things to your Bible.

3. Now look at the places where you marked Paul in the text, and make a list of what Philippians says about him. Use the chart “The Author and Recipients of Philippians” at the end of this lesson to note what each chapter says about him. List only information about the author, not any instructions or commands. Do this before going on to number 4.

4. Although Philippians 1:1 opens with “Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints …,” did you observe from the rest of the letter that the author was only one of them: Paul? If this is not clear, read Philippians 2:19 and remember that singular pronouns are used throughout the book.

5. On the chart entitled “Philippians at a Glance,” located at the end of the lesson, note anything you observe about the times in which this book is written. This helps you understand the historical setting of the book of Philippians.

As you continue to observe Philippians, you will glean more information that will help you complete this At a Glance chart.

Have you ever felt like you were in a prison of sorts, dear friend? Remember, not all prisons have bars and locked doors. Or maybe you have actually been in prison. When you look at Paul, who was in a very real prison, what does he exemplify? Do you think Paul’s attitude was unique, or do you think it’s possible for any believer to have this attitude no matter his or her prison? Can God work this attitude in all of us? Do you think Philippians tells us how? Think about it as you study this “freeing” letter.
DAY TWO

Today we’ll continue to look at Philippians as a whole. Our study will still be focused on the people mentioned in the book because the people are easy to see.

1. Read all of Philippians and mark on your Observation Worksheets every mention of the recipients with orange. The recipients are the people who received this letter. Be sure to mark all of the pronouns for the recipients, such as you, your, yourselves, who, whom, and any synonyms, like brethren and beloved.

2. As you did yesterday for the author, list the facts (not instructions) you observe about the Philippians on the chart “The Author and Recipients of Philippians.”

3. Did you observe anything about the Philippians relating to the historical setting (the times in which this letter was written) that needs to be added to that section of your “Philippians at a Glance” chart? If so, add it.

By marking the text and answering some 5 Ws and H (who, what, when, where, why, how) kinds of questions about the author and the recipients, you have been able to discover certain facts about the historical setting of this book.

Do you realize what has just happened? So many times people think the only way to understand the historical setting of a book is to read commentaries, but they aren’t aware that careful observation of the text can reveal this to you.

What a blessing this is for people who speak other languages who do not have commentaries in their language or easy access to them if they do exist.

4. What did the recipients do that might have prompted Paul to write this letter to them? Write your answer below.

How are you doing, dear friend? If this is your first Precept course, you may be panting at the pace and the work, but don’t be discouraged. You are laying such a critical foundation, one that you’ll be proud of in the right sense of the word. If you persevere, you’ll find yourself building a mansion of joy that you can dwell in no matter what your circumstances, and it will be more than worth the discipline you have exercised. So press on, valiant one.
DAY THREE AND DAY FOUR

As you have probably observed, Christ, rejoice/joy, mind/attitude and their synonyms are used throughout Philippians. (A synonym is a word that has the same meaning as another word within a particular context.) Therefore, these are key words for this book.

Discovering key words is vital to your understanding of the meaning of a text. Like keys, key words “unlock” what a passage of Scripture is about. Observing key words and phrases is important because they help identify the author’s repeated emphasis and how he accomplishes his purpose for writing.

It will be helpful to make a Key Word Bookmark for Philippians. You might use the one on the back of your Precept book which has suggestions for marking frequently used words such as “Christ.” Write Christ, joy/rejoice, and mind/attitude on the blank side and mark each of these the way you want to mark them on your Observation Worksheets. You’ll add other key words as you continue to study.

1. Read Philippians and mark the key words Christ and rejoice/joy, along with their synonyms and pronouns.

2. Read Philippians again and mark mind/attitude.

3. On the page “Key Words in Philippians” at the end of this lesson, list what Paul says about rejoice/joy and what he says about mind/attitude. As you make your lists, be sure to note what is said regarding these key words in relation to Christ.

4. Record these key words on the “Philippians at a Glance” chart.

By the way, have you ever heard someone say, “The joy of the Lord is my strength”? Did you wonder what he or she was talking about? By the end of this study of Philippians you will not only know the answer but we pray you’ll be saying it yourself.

5. Did you notice any other key words (with their synonyms) repeated in all four chapters? If you noticed any key repeated words and their synonyms, record these below. Then read Philippians and mark the other key words you observed.

6. Read through Philippians to see what the author talks about the most. Pay attention to the key words you’ve marked.

7. In Philippians the key words Christ and rejoice are the main subjects or themes of the book. The theme of a book is the main subject(s) or topic(s) in the book.

a. Use words from the text to summarize the main themes of Christ and rejoice/joy. You might look at your list on these key words to see any possibilities. Consider the following:

1) The theme should be based on an objective evaluation of what the author emphasizes through repetition, not just a subjective leaning toward what ministered the most to you.

2) You do not have to “come up” with the theme. It should always be based on repetition in the book and its context.

b. Record the theme of Philippians in the appropriate location at the top of your “Philippians at a Glance” chart. When you have completed your chart, you will have a wonderful visual tool that will give you the main content of Philippians on one concise chart.
DAY FIVE

Part of the beauty of inductive Bible study is to look at what you have discovered out of only one source: God’s Word. Later in this study you may read some commentaries to check your work and to see what other people say. It will be exciting to see what you discovered all by yourself with just the Word, the Holy Spirit, and you.

1. For the last four days you have evaluated Philippians as a whole, and we rejoice over you. Our task today will be to look at the four chapters to observe how each chapter relates to the whole letter. So the next step is to identify the chapter theme for each chapter.

a. Read only chapter 1, looking for the theme of that chapter.

What is the chapter about? Use words from the text.

When you have identified the chapter theme, write it in the space for chapter 1 on your “Philippians at a Glance” chart.

b. Following the same process, read chapters 2–4 and identify the theme of each chapter. Then write each in the appropriate space on the At a Glance chart.

c. Fill in any other information you learned from this week’s study to complete the “Philippians at a Glance” chart.

2. Philippians has so much to teach us about the relationship believers have with the Lord Jesus Christ. As you study it, Beloved, make sure you have this relationship. Did you find your heart touched with a longing for a deeper intimacy that provokes the same words as Paul’s when he said, “For to me, to live is Christ”?

Think about what God has taught you this week from your study of His Word. Ponder these things in your heart as you go about your day and turn it into an occasion for prayer.

Thank you, dear one, for your diligence in study this week. May our Lord reward you greatly by giving you great wisdom and understanding.
THE AUTHOR AND RECIPIENTS OF PHILIPPIANS

Author
Recipients
KEY WORDS IN PHILIPPIANS
PHILIPPIANS AT A GLANCE

Book Theme:
Author:
Date:
Purpose:
Historical Setting:
Chapter Theme:
1
2
3
4

LESSON TWO

Chapter One
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Observation Worksheet on Philippians 1, located in the Appendix
Cross-references

Personal observation is the only solid foundation upon which to build a superstructure of correct interpretation and accurate application. Without it, you will never be sure of your doctrine!
DAY ONE THROUGH DAY THREE

We spent one week looking at Philippians as a whole. We identified the context of this letter and the historical setting. This week we will begin to narrow our focus by looking at chapter 1.

1. Pray and ask God to open your eyes that you might behold wondrous truth out of His Word.

2. These next three days, you will be observing chapter 1. If this is the first time you have ever done a Chapter Study, you may want to read the chapter entitled “Focusing In on the Details” in How to Study Your Bible. If you don’t have this book, see “How to Do a Chapter Study” in the Appendix of this Precept book.

3. In the Overview you marked some words that were key to the whole book of Philippians. As you focus on just one chapter, you’ll observe other words key to this one chapter but not necessarily key to the whole book.

Read the Observation Worksheet on Philippians 1, located in the Appendix. Look for additional key words in this chapter and mark each (along with its pronouns and synonyms) in a distinctive way. Add these to your Key Word Bookmark.

Remember, a key word or phrase is one that is vital to the understanding of the text.

Mark each use of God and the Holy Spirit and their synonyms. If you see any mentions of Jesus Christ that you missed marking during your Overview of the book, mark them now. Be sure to also mark personal pronouns (such as I, You, He, Him, or His).

4. Every key word is the basis for a list. A list is every fact about a particular word or person in a single chapter.

Using the key words you marked in chapter 1, record on a separate sheet of paper in list form all the information you learned about each word. You don’t need to redo the lists you made in Lesson 1.

5. Read your Observation Worksheet again. If you see key words that you missed before, mark them and make a list on each word.

6. Read Philippians 1 again and mark the following:

Contrasts
Comparisons
Terms of Conclusion/Result
Expressions of Time

If you need to review the definitions of these terms, see “How to Do a Chapter Study” in the Appendix of this book or read “Focusing In on the Details” in How to Study Your Bible.

7. Identify the theme of chapter 1. As you do, be sure to review the theme of chapter 1 on your “Philippians at a Glance” chart that you completed last week. Now that you have studied chapter 1 more thoroughly, you may discover that the additional insights you gained cause you to reevaluate your choice of the theme. Record the theme in the space provided on the Observation Worksheet.

Please do not permit yourself to be defeated by fear, inadequacy, discouragement, or by comparing yourself with others. None of that is from the Father but is from the enemy of your soul who wants to keep you ignorant of the truth which makes you free (John 8:32) and sanctifies you (John 17:17).
DAY FOUR

One of the first observations you might have made is that Paul and Timothy are apparently together while writing this letter to the saints living in Philippi. Therefore, as you study, find out how Paul and Timothy became acquainted with the Philippians, where Philippi was located (see the map at the end of this lesson), what the city was like, and how Christianity first came there. Remember, in inductive study examine the Scripture for information first.

Read Acts 15:36 through Acts 17:1. Look for the answers to the following questions and write them out in the space provided. As you read, you may want to refer to the map at the end of the lesson.

1. How did Paul and Timothy become acquainted with each other?

2. How did they become acquainted with the Philippians?

3. Why did they go to Philippi?

4. Was there any record of a synagogue in Philippi? Where did the people worship?

5. Record the significant things that you have learned about Philippi and the visit there. Be sure you include how the gospel came to Philippi.

6. Did Paul visit Philippi again? Read Acts 20:1–6 and note what you learn.
DAY FIVE

1. We’ve seen that Paul preached the gospel at Philippi. Then he wrote this letter to those who had believed it. Where did he write it from, according to the text of Philippians 1?

2. Read Acts 28:16–17, 23–24, 30–31 and note what you learn.

3. Read 2 Timothy 1:8–18, 4:6–22 and Philippians 1:12–26. Is this the same imprisonment or a different one? Give your answer and reasons. Use Scripture to support your view and record your references.

4. Following is “The Sequence of Events in Paul’s Life after His Conversion.” Reading this chart may prove helpful in understanding the chronological order of Paul’s life.

LESSON THREE

Chapter One
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Word Studies
Cross-references

Servants, saints, overseers, deacons—who are they? What are their responsibilities? What are their qualifications?
DAY ONE

1. Paul often referred to himself as a servant or bond-servant of our Lord. Doulos is the transliteration of the Greek word translated “bond-servant.” The picture of a bond-servant is seen in Deuteronomy 15:12–18 when a person who had served six years as a slave decided to remain with his master. For a clearer understanding of all that is involved in being a bond-servant, read Deuteronomy 15:12–18.

a. Why would someone want to be a bond-servant?

b. How long was one to remain a bond-servant?

c. Read the following Scriptures and see how they can be cross-referenced with Deuteronomy 15:12–18 and with the term “bond-servant.” Write down the points of similarity.

1) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20

2) Galatians 1:10

2. Saints

a. Look up “saint” (Philippians 1:1). Write down the transliteration and its definition. If you have never done a word study, you may want to read the section “It’s All Greek to Me!” in How to Study Your Bible.

b. How does Philippians 1 describe saints?

c. Read 1 Corinthians 1:1–2 and note what you learn about saints.

d. What has the Spirit of God spoken to your heart through your study today? Write out personal applications using the personal pronoun “I.”
DAY TWO

1. Overseers

a. Look up the transliteration and the definition of the Greek word for “overseer” (Philippians 1:1).

b. Read the following verses and note what you learn about an overseer.

1) 1 Timothy 3:1–7

2) Acts 20:17, 28–30

3) 1 Peter 5:1–3

2. Deacons

a. Look up the transliteration and the definition of the Greek word for “deacon” (Philippians 1:1).

b. Read 1 Timothy 3:8–13 and list the qualifications of a deacon.

3. Based on your study, are there differences between overseers and deacons? If so, note below what they are.
DAY THREE

1. Read Philippians 1:3–11.

a. List what you observe about Paul’s feelings toward those in Philippi.

b. Now list what Paul prays for them.

c. Let’s look more closely at what Paul says in verse 10. Do word studies on the following:

1) approve

2) excellent

3) sincere

d. Keeping in mind what you learned from the word studies, what is Paul praying for in verse 10 and how does this relate to verse 9?

e. In verse 11 Paul speaks of their being “filled with the fruit of righteousness.” What do you think Paul means by this statement? According to his prayer, how would this filling be accomplished?

f. Meditate on Paul’s prayer. How does his prayer for the Philippian believers compare with what you pray for your fellow believers?

g. Beloved, has God put it on your heart to pray Philippians 1:9–11 for anyone? Why not stop and pray now.

2. Prayerfully read through Philippians 1:12–26 and meditate on this passage.

a. What is Paul’s passion in this passage?

b. What is his attitude toward the fact that Christ is being preached “in pretense”? Is this the same as preaching wrong doctrine? Why or why not?

c. Turn Philippians 1:20 into a personal prayer and write it below. Then make it your prayer.

3. Paul seemed to look forward to death! In Philippians 1:21 he said that to die was gain. According to the text, why did Paul look forward to death?

4. From Philippians 1:21, 23 and 2 Corinthians 5:6–8, where does a Christian’s soul and spirit go when he dies?

5. What about you, do you look forward to being absent from this body and at home with the Lord? Can you say with Paul, “to live is Christ and to die is gain”?
DAY FOUR AND DAY FIVE

We want you to study what it means to suffer for His sake as Philippians 1:29 teaches. So many of us want to run away from suffering, to avoid it at all costs. We do not realize the awful price we may pay if we are not willing to suffer.

Are you wondering what we mean by the statement “the awful price we may pay if we are not willing to suffer”? See if you can find out as you study this subject of “suffering for His sake.”

1. Prayerfully read and meditate on the following passages of Scripture. As you do, record any pertinent insights you gain about suffering.

a. Matthew 5:10–12

b. John 15:18–21

c. Romans 5:1–5

d. Romans 8:16–18

e. 2 Corinthians 1:7; 4:8–18

f. Philippians 3:10

g. 1 Thessalonians 3:2–4

h. 2 Timothy 3:10–12

i. Hebrews 10:32–36

j. 1 Peter 1:6–9; 2:18–25; 4:1; 4:12–5:1; 5:8–10—If you’re not sure of the meanings of “perfect” and “confirm” in 1 Peter 5:10, look up the definitions.

2. Summarize, as briefly as you can, the purpose of suffering in a Christian’s life. How are we to respond to suffering?

We are living in a time in which there is a prevalent teaching that if one is truly filled with the Spirit and believes God, he could be healed from all illness. There is also a teaching that presumes that if one is not living in prosperity—materially, physically, socially, and emotionally—he could not possibly be filled with the Spirit. The Word of God does not teach that these things are the norm for all children of God. So many times when man comes upon a truth, he overemphasizes it to the neglect of other truths; therefore, through imbalance, he comes up with perversion of truth. Scripture must agree with Scripture. May we never forget this truth! Study the whole counsel of God, and proclaim the whole counsel of God.

3. Spend the rest of your study time reading what your commentaries say about Philippians 1.

LESSON FOUR

Chapter Two
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Observation Worksheets on Philippians 2, located in the Appendix
Cross-references
Word Study

This week we’ll observe Philippians 2. This is a rich chapter that deserves careful observation and prayerful meditation. If you will read it aloud repeatedly, you will find yourself memorizing much of it; and how rich you will be. Make it yours in mind, in heart, in life.
DAY ONE AND DAY TWO

1. Observe Philippians 2. Remember, a true understanding of God’s Word is revealed by His Spirit. Seek Him in prayer.

If needed, see “How to Do a Chapter Study” or review “Focusing In on the Details” in How to Study Your Bible to refresh your memory.

2. Begin memorizing Philippians 2:12–15. A good way to memorize Scripture is to write it out on a card that you can carry with you. Read it aloud three times every morning, noon, and night. If you will do this regularly, you will find that you will have it memorized in no time.
DAY THREE

Many times we find ourselves doctrinally correct, serving in our church, and witnessing to the world; yet, we are divided, striving among ourselves, proud of our staunch stand on and knowledge of the Word of God, and impatient and angry with those who will not see that God’s Word is true and that Christ is the only way! Everything is correct doctrinally, but what about our conduct?

1. Read Philippians 1:27–2:4 and ask God to open your eyes to the truth of His Word. Come with a teachable spirit and be spoken to by your Lord. In the following space, list the commands of this passage with regard to our behavior towards others.

2. Go to Ephesians 4:1–6 and read this passage with the same heart’s attitude and prayer as described in number 1. What does God implore His children to do in this passage?

3. The first two verses of Philippians 2 are very important. Behavior is based on belief! Doctrine is fundamental to duty. These truths are seen in Philippians 2:1–2. Read it carefully and see if you can understand what we are saying.

4. Verses 1–2 of Philippians 2 comprise one sentence. The core of the sentence is “make my joy complete.” Fill out the following chart:

IF
Core
BY BEING
Make My Joy Complete

5. According to verse 2, what is your responsibility?

6. Philippians 2:5–11 is one of the greatest passages in the Word of God on the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ. The doctrine of the Incarnation teaches that God became man, that Christ was God in the flesh. These seven verses are saturated with doctrine at its richest! What a picture of our Christ: His majesty, His humility, His love, His obedience! He has been given to us as an example, as a pattern, as a way of life so that we might let this mind be in us which was also in Christ Jesus.

Prayerfully read Philippians 2:5–11 and answer the following questions:

a. What does this passage teach about Christ before He became a man?

b. What did He do in order to become (or when He became) man?

c. What was His station in life as a man? In other words, what position did He hold as a man when He was on earth according to this passage?

d. Compare His position before He became man and after He became man. How do they contrast?

e. To what extent was Christ obedient?

f. What attitude was necessary for His obedience?

g. What was God’s response to Christ’s obedience?

h. How will all mankind someday respond to Jesus Christ?

i. What will mankind’s response bring the Father?

j. Fill out the following chart showing, step by step, the stages in Christ’s humiliation and in His exaltation. The number of lines on this chart is for your convenience in writing; they do not, in any way, indicate the number of steps or stages.

EXALTATION Philippians 2:9–11
HUMILIATION Philippians 2:6–8
DAY FOUR

Why did Christ have to become man? Why was the Incarnation necessary?

1. Prayerfully read Hebrews 2:9, 14–16. According to this passage, list why Christ became man.

2. Read Hebrews 2:17–18 and record any other reasons for our Lord’s Incarnation.

3. Read Mark 10:45 and state the two reasons you see for His coming. One of these reasons is the same as one of the reasons found in Hebrews 2:9, 14–16.

4. Christ was born to die. The reason for Christmas was the cross. The cross that cast its shadow across that precious Child in the manger was to be the means of our salvation. The cross was God’s Christmas tree on which He would hang His gift for all mankind, Christ. O Father, thank You for Your unspeakable gift!

a. To fully appreciate Christ’s humiliation, His obedience, His laying aside for us the glory that was His, read the Scriptures below. As you read these passages, watch Christ and sense His attitude.

1) Isaiah 52:13–53:12

2) Psalm 22

b. Summarize the ways these two passages show His humiliation. Do not hurry through this study and do not do this study lightly. Let the full impact of this truth hit you. Stand at the foot of the cross and behold the Lamb of God slain for you.

c. Now bow before the Father. Beseech Him that you might fully realize what it is to have this mind, this attitude which was also in Christ Jesus.
DAY FIVE

The path of exaltation is humiliation! This truth is contrary to the mind of the world. Men are anxiously seeking to establish themselves, to build the biggest and the best, to be number one—even in Christian circles. What do the Scriptures teach about all this competition?

1. Read 1 Peter 5:6. Look up the word “humble” and write its definition in the space provided. Then state the command, the result, and the time given in 1 Peter 5:6.

a. definition of humble

b. command

c. result

d. time

2. Read the following verses and record what each verse teaches regarding humility and/or pride.

a. Proverbs 15:33

b. Proverbs 22:4

c. Proverbs 25:6–7

d. Isaiah 57:15

e. Matthew 11:29

f. Matthew 20:26–27

g. Matthew 23:12

h. James 4:6

3. Now feel free to check your commentaries on Philippians 2:1–11.

We thank God upon every remembrance of you. We pray that you will not grow weary of doing good; that you will remain steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord as you know your labor will not be in vain; that you will grow in your knowledge of our God and Savior through your diligent study of His Word; that you will study as unto the Lord and permit each lesson to become an act of worship and obedience; that you will remember the work of Precept Ministries International diligently in your prayers, asking God that we will be totally obedient to the heavenly vision of God for this ministry to Christ and His precious body.

LESSON FIVE

Chapter Two
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Word Studies
Cross-references

As you study this week, you will be looking for answers to the following questions. Take these questions to the Lord, meditate upon them, and seek His wisdom, His understanding.

1. What does it mean in Philippians 2:12 when it says “work out your salvation”?

2. What is grumbling?
DAY ONE

We are going to study Philippians 2:12–13. Verse 12 often becomes a puzzle to people. Is it saying that I am to work for my salvation? What does it mean “with fear and trembling”? Am I to be afraid of God?

Understanding and obeying the truth of these verses is absolutely liberating. It brings forth fruitful living.

1. First, let’s look at verses 12 and 13.

a. In verse 12, who is to do the work?

b. In verse 13, who is doing the work?

c. From verse 12, write the word that follows “work.”

d. From verse 13, write the two words that follow “at work.”

e. So we see that verse 12 shows man’s responsibility in working out what God works in him in verse 13.

2. What is God working in us?

3. For whom or what is He working these things?

4. What is to be our attitude toward our responsibility?

5. Why would Paul bother to tell them to work out this salvation not only in his presence but also in his absence?

6. Look up the following words in your concordance, expository dictionary, word study books, commentaries, or other tools which are available to you. Record the English transliteration of the Greek words and their definitions.

a. work out

b. fear

c. to will

d. to work

7. Read Ephesians 4:30 and 1 Thessalonians 5:19. What is the difference between “grieving” the Spirit and “quenching” the Spirit? Check the context of both passages.

a. Look up the Greek words for “grieve” and “quench.” Record the English transliteration and the definition of each word.

1) grieve

2) quench

b. Would disobedience to Philippians 2:12 relate to either or both of these verses? How?

8. By way of personal application, write what you have learned from Philippians 2:12–13. Personalize your writing by using the pronoun “I.”
DAY TWO

1. From Philippians 2:14–15 answer the following questions:

a. What is the difference between “grumbling” and “disputing”? Record the English transliteration of the Greek words and their definitions.

1) grumbling

2) disputing

b. When are we allowed to grumble or dispute?

2. How does verse 15 relate to verse 14?

3. Look up the following references to grumbling and record your findings.

a. Jude 16 (context 3–4, 14–16)

b. Numbers 13:16–14:38. Also, check Hebrews 3:17–19 to see what God says about these grumblers.

c. 1 Corinthians 10:1–13—How does this compare with the passage you just read in Numbers? First Corinthians 10:6–11 tells us five things we are not to do. List them.

4. Now, how do you apply what you’ve learned about “grumbling”?

Spend time in prayer concerning application of the truths you’ve studied so far this week, Beloved.
DAY THREE AND DAY FOUR

1. In Philippians 2:16, Paul tells the Philippians that “holding fast the word of life” will cause him to glory so that he will not have run in vain or toiled in vain. What does Paul mean when he says, “holding fast the word of life”? Look up “holding” and record the definition below.

2. What in Philippians 2 would show you how to “hold fast the word of life”? List your findings; but as you do, do not make the Word say what it does not say!

3. What was the world like in Paul’s day? Does it, in any way, parallel our world today? Would those who were to hold fast the word of life have the same pressures we have today?

4. Paul uses the phrase “the day of Christ” three times in Philippians. It is also used in Paul’s letters to the Corinthians. Look up the following references to “the day of Christ,” and record what you learn about that day. Check the context of the verses as you read them!

a. Philippians 1:6

b. Philippians 1:9–10

c. Philippians 2:16

d. 1 Corinthians 1:7–8

e. 2 Corinthians 1:12–14

5. As you just saw, “the day of Christ” is connected with believers and the coming of Christ. Read the following Scriptures and see if they relate to “the day of Christ.” Record your observations.

a. 1 Thessalonians 2:19–20

b. 1 Thessalonians 3:12–13

c. 1 Thessalonians 5:23

d. 1 John 3:1–3

6. Paul used the illustration of his being “poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your [the Philippians’] faith.”

a. Read the passages below and note what you learn about the drink offering.

1) Exodus 29:38–41

2) Numbers 15:1–10

b. Considering what the Old Testament says about the drink offering and the context of Philippians 2, why do you think Paul used the illustration in Philippians 2:17?

7. Since all Scripture is profitable for our learning and admonition, write what you have learned about your life from Philippians 2:16–17. Be as specific as possible. Do you pour out your life as a sacrificial offering in behalf of the faith of others? How? How much of your time and energies are spent in behalf of the furtherance of the gospel?
DAY FIVE

Read Philippians 2 once more. It is no accident that Paul turns in his letter to comments and instructions about Timothy and Epaphroditus. As Paul has instructed the Philippians to be Christ-minded and to live above reproach, it is only natural that these two men would come to mind; they have listened to and obeyed his teaching. Once again God is showing us that living like Christ is possible if we will pay the price of humility and obedience, if we will draw upon the power of the Spirit within, and if we will carry out the desires of the One who works in us both to will and to work for His good pleasure.

1. At the end of this lesson is a chart, “Living Demonstrations of the Attitude of Christ.” List on the chart what you learned about the following:

a. the attitude of Christ in Philippians 2:5–8,
b. Timothy in Philippians 2:19–24,
c. Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:25–30, and
d. Paul from your study in this book.

2. Meditate on what you have learned. As you have studied these men—Christ, Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus—and as you have seen their examples of godly living, how have you measured up? Record your answer on the following chart.

Where I Have Failed
How I Can Improve
The Cost

3. Read what your commentaries have to say about Philippians 2:12–30. Take pertinent notes on another sheet of paper.

We pray that this has been a profitable week of study for you and that God has taught you, personally, what He expects from you.

Do you know what we need at Precept Ministries International? We need a support team of those who would be an Epaphroditus—people who will do more than just purchase a workbook.

God has ordained that Precept Ministries International be dependent to a great degree upon the regular support of those who are taught by this ministry. We need your regular faithful support in ministry, in prayer, and in giving if we are going to continue to reach out and minister to a world that is perishing because of a famine for the Word of God.

Working as hard as we do, giving as much as we do, we cannot do it alone. We cannot go forward by ourselves.

We need you, Epaphroditus, just as you say you need us. Will you contact us for information regarding our E-Team?

As you list the qualities of Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus, if possible, list them opposite the same qualities of the attitude of Christ so you can note the parallels.
LIVING DEMONSTRATIONS OF THE ATTITUDE OF CHRIST
Description of the Attitude of Christ
Timothy
Epaphroditus
Paul

LESSON SIX

Chapter Three
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Observation Worksheet on Philippians 3, located in the Appendix
Cross-references

This third chapter of Philippians is absolutely rich with insights into those things which are necessary for life if you are going to be one of those who reaches the goal and receives the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
DAY ONE AND DAY TWO

You will be spending two weeks on this chapter. This week we’ll begin with a Chapter Study. It is vital that you lay the solid foundation of correct observations as these will greatly aid you in your assignments.

As you study chapter 3, meditate and pray, asking God to give you “a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him” (Ephesians 1:17).

You may want to read the directions in the Appendix on “How to Do a Chapter Study” or review “Focusing In on the Details” in How to Study Your Bible in order to refresh your memory about how to do an Observation Worksheet.
DAY THREE

1. In Philippians 3:3–4 Paul talks about having confidence in the flesh, trusting in the flesh.

a. From your observations of Philippians 3:1–6, what do you think Paul means by having “confidence in the flesh”?

b. On the following chart, list in the left-hand column each thing in which Paul says he could have had confidence.

c. In the right-hand column list modern-day parallels to each thing in which Paul could have had confidence. In other words, how do the things in which Paul could have had confidence parallel the things in which a churchgoer or religious person might put their confidence today?

Paul’s List of Confidences
A Religious Man’s Confidences

2. What are the Philippians to beware of? Based on the context of Philippians, what do you think Paul means?

3. In Philippians 3:2–3 Paul makes a play on words. In verse 2 he refers to the “false circumcision,” warning the Philippians to beware of them. Then in verse 3 Paul refers to himself as being part of the “true circumcision.” What was circumcision? What was its purpose? This topic will be our next subject of study.

a. If you do not know what circumcision is, look it up.

b. Genesis 17 contains the first mention of circumcision. Read this chapter carefully and list everything you learn about circumcision.

c. Circumcision was the sign of the covenant that God made with Abraham and his seed or descendants. Read Genesis 15:6 and, comparing that with Romans 4:3–13, answer the following questions:

1) What was Abraham’s relationship with God when circumcision was instituted?

2) What role or part did circumcision have?

4. In Philippians 3:3, Paul said that those who were really of the circumcision, the true circumcision, were those who put no confidence in the flesh. Many Jews had lost sight of the true purpose of circumcision, and they had come to trust in the rite itself rather than the reason for the rite.

a. Read Romans 2:25–29. When was circumcision of true benefit?

b. Can you think of any church rituals in which people might put their confidence as the Jews did in circumcision and, thereby, miss their true significance? Record your answer along with an appropriate explanation.

c. Suppose you were to die and stand before God and God said to you, “Why should I let you into heaven?” What would be your answer?
DAY FOUR

1. Prayerfully read through Philippians 3, giving yourself time to reflect on the purpose of this chapter.

2. In Philippians 3:7–8 Paul uses the verb “count” several times.

a. The verb tenses are given below.

Philippians 3:7—“have counted” (perfect tense—past completed action with a result continuing to the present)

Philippians 3:8—“count” (both uses, present tense—continuing action; indicative mood—occurring at the time of writing)

b. Note below what Paul said he “counted.”

c. What do you think Paul is trying to convey to his reader through these verb tenses and the repetition of this verb?

3. What do you think Paul means in Philippians 3:9 when he talks about a “righteousness … derived from the Law” versus the “righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith”?

a. To help answer this question, look at the following verses and note what you learn.

1) Philippians 1:9–11

2) Philippians 3:4–6

b. What kind of righteousness do you have? How do you know?
DAY FIVE

Spend your study time today finding out what your commentaries have to say about Philippians 3:1–9. Take pertinent notes on a separate sheet of paper for future reference. Next week we will finish our study of Philippians 3, so please do not read beyond verse 9 in your commentaries.

LESSON SEVEN

Chapter Three
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Observation Worksheet on Philippians 3, located in the Appendix
Word Studies
Cross-references

The pinnacle of a life of joy is the mountaintop of Philippians 3. To climb this mountain, to reach its goal is to conquer that which would keep you in the valley.

When you stand on that mountaintop, you can see life in its proper perspective. And as you stand there viewing the valleys below you, you realize that you were not a fool to count all loss for the sake of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus. And with eyes full of tears, you weep for those who will never know the fresh joy, the awesome beauty, the glorious freedom of this mountain life. They know only the valley.
DAY ONE AND DAY TWO

Please do not consult your commentaries until you are told to do so.

1. Before you begin your study this week, you need to prayerfully read through Philippians 3. As you read, ask God to illuminate your understanding so that you might comprehend the depths of the truth contained in this chapter. Tell God that you want this truth to go beyond your mind to the very heart of your spirit so that you may desire with all your being to “attain to the resurrection from the dead.”

2. Now, let’s focus on verses 10–11. What is Paul saying about knowing Christ? To help answer this, look up the definitions of the following words.

a. fellowship

b. conformed

3. What do you think Paul means in Philippians 3:12 when he says that he wants to “lay hold of” that for which he was laid hold of by Christ Jesus? Look up the definitions for:

a. perfect

b. press on

4. As you read through Philippians 3, you observed that Paul was headed toward a goal. What was his goal? As you answer this question, do not simply write the words of the text but, rather, explain this goal in your own words so that even a non-Christian may be able to understand it.

5. According to Philippians 3, what would it take to reach this goal?

6. Honestly, what are your goals in life? State them in concrete terms on the following chart. Then next to each goal, write what it will take to achieve each goal. Be as specific as possible.

My Goals
Things I Must Do to Achieve These Goals

7. Do any of your goals conflict? If so, how are you going to resolve these conflicts? Which goals have top priority? Go back to your chart and give each goal a numerical evaluation, the most important being number 1.

8. What is the promise in Philippians 3:15? How does this promise relate to what has gone before in the previous verses? To whom is it addressed? Look up the definition of “attitude” and note it.

9. To what standard have you attained? Think about your answer; talk to the Lord about it. Are you mature? Do you want to be?

10. Finally, read Philippians 3:12–16. Ask God to show you how this applies to your life. Note below what He tells you.
DAY THREE

1. As you read Philippians 3:17–21, how do you think it relates to Philippians 3:10–16?

2. In Philippians 3:18 Paul refers to a group of people who are “enemies of the cross.” He then gives a brief description of this group. List his description.

3. In light of Paul’s description, what do you think he means when he calls them “enemies of the cross”? Stop and think about what the cross means in a Christian’s life. Read the following passages and record your insights before you answer this question.

a. Matthew 10:34–39

b. Luke 14:25–33

c. Romans 6:1–14

d. Galatians 2:19–21

Now, what do you think Paul means by “enemies of the cross”?

4. Was it right for Paul to set himself up as an example for others? Read 1 Corinthians 4:14–17; 11:1; and 1 Thessalonians 1:5–7. Should any Christian be able to tell another Christian to be a follower of him? Why?
DAY FOUR

Read what your commentaries have to say about Philippians 3:10–21. Take pertinent notes on another sheet of paper.
DAY FIVE

Let’s end this week with application.

1. Here are some questions for meditation.

a. How are you walking?

b. Where are you walking?

c. Why are you walking there?

2. Can you tell others to follow your example of Christianity? What, if anything, needs to change in your life so that you can tell others to follow your example? Make a list of these things on the following chart:

Things I Need to Change
I Will or I Will Not
When I Will Begin
How I Will Begin

3. The remainder of your study today will be creative. Take some truth that God has spoken to you through Philippians 3 and develop it in such a way that you can share it with others.

You might write

a poem,
a song,
a devotional,
a letter of exhortation,
a teaching outline,
a short article for your church publication or a magazine, or even draw a picture!

LESSON EIGHT

Chapter Four
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Observation Worksheet on Philippians 4, located in the Appendix
Word Studies
Cross-references

Philippians 4 is one of the most practical chapters in all of the Word of God.
DAY ONE AND DAY TWO

Philippians 4 has the answer to some of the common conflicts facing every Christian. Observe this chapter.

Give adequate time and meditation to this chapter. Read it over and over again until you find yourself able to quote portions of it. Become doers of the Word. What victory and peace it will bring!
DAY THREE

Today we will concentrate on verses 4–7.

1. Look up the following words or phrases in your concordance, expository dictionary, or other available tools. Do whatever is necessary to gain a clear understanding of what God is saying. Record your findings.

a. gentle spirit

b. anxious

c. prayer

d. supplication

e. guard

2. When you observe verses 4–7 carefully, you will find a list of things God tells you to do. List them below. Ask the Lord to show you how each one applies to you. Is there anything you need to work out that He is working in you?
DAY FOUR

Today you will do some cross-reference work on Philippians 4:4–7. Look up each reference and study the verses. Then explain what the verse teaches you about any facet of anxiety.

1. Psalm 55:22

2. Isaiah 26:3

3. Isaiah 41:10

4. Isaiah 43:1–2

5. Matthew 6:24–34

6. Hebrews 13:5–6

7. 1 Peter 5:6–7 (These verses are one sentence.)
DAY FIVE

What a blessing you will receive today as you see all the truths you have learned this week illustrated in 2 Chronicles 20:1–30.

1. Read through 2 Chronicles 20:1–30 at least two times before you begin.

2. List the chain of events as they occur in this chapter. Do not be wordy!

3. Analyze Jehoshaphat’s prayer. How did his prayer begin; on what were his petitions based, etc.?

4. How does Philippians 4:6 compare with 2 Chronicles 20:1–30?

5. When did the Lord set ambushes and rout out the enemy?

6. Read 2 Chronicles 20:27, 29–30. What was the result of Jehoshaphat’s obedience? Why? Be specific.

7. In 2 Chronicles 20:15 we find that blessed statement “the battle is not yours but God’s.” Read 1 Samuel 17:31–51 and see how David’s experience compares with Jehoshaphat’s. Then compare Psalm 33:16–22 with 2 Chronicles 20:1–30 and 1 Samuel 17:31–51. Record any pertinent notes to aid you in your Precept discussion.

8. Now see what your commentaries say about Philippians 4:1–7.

You have seen the reality of Philippians 4:4–6 in Jehoshaphat’s life and in David’s life. Now let others see the reality of it in your life

LESSON NINE

Chapter Four
THIS LESSON INCORPORATES

Word Studies
Topical Studies
Cross-references

This is your final week of study on Philippians. You are to be commended for your perseverance and diligence. These have been weeks of much discipline. Maybe, like Paul, you have labored to the point of exhaustion, but labors such as these pay high dividends. These labors enable you to hold forth the Word of life, handling it accurately and without shame. In this day of great apathy in the church, how we praise the Lord for Christians who are willing to discipline themselves in such a way!
DAY ONE

The Mind

1. In Philippians 4:8 Paul gives a command that should revolutionize our thinking. Then in verse 9, there follows a wonderful promise. Close observation of these two verses shows that the promise rests on the fulfillment of specific conditions. Read both verses in their context and record on the following chart the promise and the conditions. Be specific.

Promise
Conditions

2. In verse 8, Paul tells us what our minds are to dwell on. List below what those things are.

3. “Dwell on” in Philippians 4:8 is present tense imperative.

a. Look up the definition of this word and note it below.

b. Why do you think Paul gives Christians this command in verse 8? To put it another way, of what profit is the command of Philippians 4:8 to the Christian? How does it relate to Philippians 4:6–7?

4. The verb “practice” in Philippians 4:9 is present tense imperative. How does this help you understand Paul’s instruction in this verse?

5. In Scripture the “mind” and the “heart” are often interchangeable. Look up the following verses and read them carefully. Write what these verses are saying.

a. Proverbs 4:23

b. Proverbs 23:7 (the first statement)

c. Isaiah 26:3

d. Matthew 9:4

e. Matthew 15:18–20

f. 1 Corinthians 2:16

6. Read 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 carefully. Note how these verses relate to your mind and how to handle your thought life.

7. List in a logical order all you have learned about your mind. Record your insights in a personal way. For example, I have learned that …

This teaching on the mind is vital to good mental health. Study this truth well; then share it! If you were to obey the teaching of Philippians 4:8, how would it change your life? What you read, watch, listen to, say, think.…
DAY TWO AND DAY THREE

Contentment in All Circumstances of Life

1. Prayerfully read Philippians 4:10–13 asking the Holy Spirit to reveal the truths of these verses to you in a very real way. As you study, keep in mind Paul’s circumstances and his attitude toward these circumstances as manifested in the letter to the Philippians. Paul lived what he believed, and he practiced what he preached. Do you?

2. It seems that the beginning of contentment in all circumstances of life is the realization of two facts. First, God controls all the circumstances of life. Second, this God, who controls or rules as Sovereign Ruler over the whole universe, loves us and promises that everything will result in good to conform us to the image of His Son (Romans 8:28–29).

Read Romans 8:28–29 and write out how these verses relate to contentment in every circumstance of life.

3. Read 1 Corinthians 10:13. How does this verse relate to Philippians 4:10–13 and to what you have learned thus far?

4. Compare Philippians 4:10–13 with Philippians 2:14. How do they fit together?

5. Read Job 1. What verses show the reality of Philippians 4:10–13 in Job’s life?

6. If you want a real blessing and if you have never read Joseph’s life, read Genesis 39–42 and 45 to see the truth of Philippians 4:10–13 illustrated in a man’s life. How would you have responded? How do you respond? Have you learned the secret? Have you learned to do or bear all things through the One who constantly infuses His strength into you?

7. Although this assignment is last, it is vital! Read and meditate upon Hebrews 13:5–6.

Remember the truths you have learned. Meditate on them, practice them, and God will greatly use you in ministering to others. If you live in obedience to these verses, others will see and want to know your secret of life!
DAY FOUR AND DAY FIVE

Giving

1. Read Philippians 4:14–19 carefully, asking God to open the eyes of your understanding.

2. Read 2 Corinthians 8:1–15; 9:6–15.

a. In 2 Corinthians 8:7, what is this “gracious work” that Paul is referring to?

b. Who is our example in giving as seen in the following verses?

1) 2 Corinthians 8:9

2) 2 Corinthians 9:15

c. Explain the principle of equality in giving referred to in 2 Corinthians 8:13–15. What is Paul referring to in 2 Corinthians 8:15?

d. List any other principles of giving taught in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9.

3. Read Deuteronomy 15:7–11. Is this passage applicable today? If so, how?

4. Look up the following verses and record what you learn from them. Do you see any promises or commands? If so, record them.

a. Psalm 41:1

b. Proverbs 3:27

c. Proverbs 11:25

d. Proverbs 25:21–22

e. Proverbs 28:27

f. Luke 3:11

g. 1 John 3:17

5. God’s Word teaches that we are to support those who “perform sacred services” or “proclaim the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:13–14). Study the following verses and record the principle taught in each.

a. 1 Corinthians 9:7–14

b. Galatians 6:6–10

6. Do you think the promise of Philippians 4:19 is conditional, being based upon the Philippians’ generosity as seen in Philippians 4:14–18?

7. If you have time, read what your commentaries say about Philippians 4:8–19.

May God give us His sensitivity to others, and may we seek the Spirit’s leadership in prayer so that His Spirit may lead us to those who have a need that we are to meet.

APPENDIX
PHILIPPIANS 1

Observation Worksheet
Chapter Theme

Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus,
To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers 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 offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all,
5 in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now.
6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
7 For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me.
8 For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.
9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment,
10 so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ;
11 having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
12 Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel,
13 so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else,
14 and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.
15 Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from good will;
16 the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel;
17 the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.
18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will rejoice,
19 for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
20 according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
22 But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose.
23 But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;
24 yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.
25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith,
26 so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again.
27 Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
28 in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God.
29 For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,
30 experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
PHILIPPIANS 2

Observation Worksheet
Chapter Theme

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion,
2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.
3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;
4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus,
6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped,
7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.
8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,
10 so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling;
13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing;
15 so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,
16 holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.
17 But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.
18 You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.
19 But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition.
20 For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare.
21 For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus.
22 But you know of his proven worth, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father.
23 Therefore I hope to send him immediately, as soon as I see how things go with me;
24 and I trust in the Lord that I myself also will be coming shortly.
25 But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need;
26 because he was longing for you all and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick.
27 For indeed he was sick to the point of death, but God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, so that I would not have sorrow upon sorrow.
28 Therefore I have sent him all the more eagerly so that when you see him again you may rejoice and I may be less concerned about you.
29 Receive him then in the Lord with all joy, and hold men like him in high regard;
30 because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was deficient in your service to me.
PHILIPPIANS 3

Observation Worksheet
Chapter Theme

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you.
2 Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcision;
3 for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh,
4 although I myself might have confidence even in the flesh. If anyone else has a mind to put confidence in the flesh, I far more:
5 circumcised the eighth day, of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Law, a Pharisee;
6 as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to the righteousness which is in the Law, found blameless.
7 But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ.
8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ,
9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith,
10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death;
11 in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.
12 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.
13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead,
14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you;
16 however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.
17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.
18 For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ,
19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things.
20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ;
21 who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself.
PHILIPPIANS 4

Observation Worksheet
Chapter Theme

Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.
2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord.
3 Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!
5 Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity.
11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.
12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.
15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone;
16 for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.
17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account.
18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.
19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
20 Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you.
22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

HOW TO DO A CHAPTER STUDY~ Let’s Get Started!
To learn more about doing a chapter study and other inductive Bible study skills, we encourage you to keep on hand a copy of How to Study Your Bible. If you don’t yet have a copy, you can order one by visiting www.precept.org or calling 800-763-8280.
A chapter study helps you to focus in on the details in the chapter to better understand what the author is saying. Each of the skills is used to bring important points to light.

• Look for the 5 Ws and H

Read the text asking the 5 Ws and H—Who, What, When, Where, Why, How. For example, when studying John 1, read the text asking questions like:

Who is this about?
When?
Where was the Word?
Who was the Word?
What did the Word do?

Don’t expect every verse or chapter to answer all the 5 Ws and H about a particular subject or person, but you should read with a questioning mind-set.

Marking key words and phrases and making lists help you to answer the 5 Ws and H.

• Mark key words and phrases

Key words are repeated words within a text which are vital to its meaning.

Mark in a distinctive way each key word or phrase in the chapter along with its pronouns and synonyms. Use colors and/or symbols.

Example: “” is a repeated word that is key to understanding John 1.

• Lists

The next step is to list what the chapter says about each of the key words. Look at each place you marked a key word and list what the text says.

A list is a compilation of the facts given about a particular word or person. It gives the 5 Ws and H (who, what, when, where, why, how) about that word or person. Use words from the text.

A list about the Word from John 1 begins this way:

was in the beginning, v. 1
was with God, v. 1
was God, v. 1
was in the beginning with God, v. 2

• Mark and evaluate:

Contrasts—point out differences. To mark a contrast, put a symbol in the margin by the verse(s), such as .

John 1:17: “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.”

“But,” “however,” or “nevertheless” might indicate a contrast.

John 4:2: “… Jesus Himself was not baptizing, but His disciples were.…”

Comparisons—point out similarities. To mark a comparison, put a symbol in the margin by the verse(s), such as .

John 10:9: “I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved.…”

Sometimes “like” or “as” indicate a comparison.

John 3:14–15: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life.”

Terms of Conclusion—show that a conclusion or summary is being made. These help us understand “why.”

Look for the words signifying a conclusion or result such as “therefore,” “for this reason,” and “finally.”

John 12:50: “I know that His commandment is eternal life; the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

Expressions of Time—give timing, sequence of events, or progression.

Look for words such as “then,” “after,” “when,” “until,” “the day of.…”

John 1:2: “He was with God.”

• Identify subjects or themes

Identify main subjects, events, or points of a chapter by observing it paragraph by paragraph. Paragraphs can be shown with boldface type for the first verse number of a paragraph, by a paragraph symbol, or by an indention at the beginning of a paragraph.

Read each paragraph, and in the margin list the event, subject, or main point of the paragraph.

John testified about the Light
John 1:6–8
6 There came a man sent from God, whose name was John.
Precept Ministries International. (2014). Philippians: How to Have Joy (1st edition, S. i–100). Chattanooga, TN: Precept Ministries International.