The Book of Philippians Chapter 1

I have outlined the entire New Testament for easy teaching to those who hunger for truth and who wish to share it with others. In fact, the first book of the Bible that I memorized was the book of Philippians. Only four chapters in length, it met so many practical needs in my life as a new believer.

Now I share these simple but powerful outlines with you. Apply these truths to your life. Then teach them to those you disciple. Nothing is more life-changing than the pure Word of God studied and taught in its verse by verse context. Here is chapter one as we “follow Paul as he  followed Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1) and mature into true spiritual warriors.

1) A SHEPHERD’S HEART—Philippians 1:1-8

Note the love and concern of God that He put in Paul for others—his thankfulness (v3), prayers (v4), fellowship (v5), love (v7) and longing (v8).

2) A SHEPHERD’S PRAYER—Philippians 1:9-11

       Pray this for yourself and fellow believers—abounding love and growth in knowledge (v9),   

       learning to choose priorities that are “excellent” (v10), and being filled with actions and 

       fruits of righteousness (v11).

3) A SHEPHERDS’S EXAMPLE—Philippians 1:12-17

        See how Paul’s imprisonment did not discourage or intimidate him. On the contrary,

        negative circumstances only made his light shine brighter and stronger.

4) A SHEPHERD’S GOAL—Philippians 1:18-21

        Our consuming desire must be that Jesus Christ will be magnified in our bodies, whatever

        the cost (v20). Then living becomes Jesus and more of Jesus. And dying becomes gain

        as we go to be with Him (v21).

5) A SHEPHERD’S DUAL-DESIRE—Philippians 1:22-26

         On the one hand, Paul yearned to be with Christ in heaven (v23). On the other hand, he

         knew that he must still be a blessing to others who needed his encouragement on earth  

         (vv24-26).

6) A SHEPHERD’S REMINDER—Philippians 1:27-30

        We are to strive for unity in the body of Christ (v27), be fearless when facing adversaries

         (v28), and recognize that suffering is an important part of the Christian life (v29).   

TO BE CONTINUED—

See how delicious the Word of God is when we apply it to our lives and those we teach?! Chapter 2 will be about servant-hood.

"Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ" (I Corinthians 11:1)
The ST. PAUL SCHOOL, with Frank Eiklor, Eileen Young and Cecilia Contreras