SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES 07-07-2019

RECAP OF OUR LAST STUDY “The Pursuit Of True Believers”: Believers are to rejoice in the Lord because of the hope of eternal life. Salvation cannot be obtained by works  but by faith in Christ. We must deny the flesh and its desires, treat earthly credentials as dung and earnestly pursue God’s righteousness by faith. Moreover, we must remain an example for others to see by maintaining a holy, exemplary life and conviction and remaining fervent in spiritual service and pursuit of heavenly reward till Jesus comes.

TODAY’S STUDY: LESSON 750: BELIEVERS’ JOY AND CONFIDENCE IN CHRIST MEMORY VERSE: …… “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). TEXT: Philippians 4:1-23

QUESTION 1: In what ways does our text express Paul’s: INTRODUCTION Apostle Paul exhorted the Philippian church to bear fruits of righteousness namely: moderation, gratitude, prayer and godliness. These virtues should be the source of our joy and basis of our confidence. He appreciated their support for his physical needs. He concluded his epistle with an affectionate salutation and benediction. QUESTION 1: In what ways does our text express Paul’s: Joy – Philippians 4:1,4 Confidence – Philippians 4:3,6,12,13

GRACIOUS ATTRIBUTES OF BELIEVERS IN CHRIST Philippians 4:1-9 Paul encouraged the Philippians to “be of the same mind in the Lord”. He exhorted them to make God the centre of their affections, bury all their petty differences and show consideration for his fellow labourers. The grace of God should rule our appetites and restrain our tempers. We should support those who labour sacrificially for the gospel. QUESTION 2: What are the essential gracious attributes of believers in Christ? – Philippians 4:5,6,8; Colossians 3:16.

GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF A SINGLE-MINDED MINISTER Philippians 4:10-19 Paul laboured relentlessly without personal gains to win souls and mature them in the Lord. Sometimes, he laboured with his hands to provide his own physical needs (Acts 20:34). Although he learnt to be content in adversity and prosperity, the generosity of the Philippian church was an encouragement to him. QUESTION 3: What can believers learn from the charity of the Philippian church and Paul’s response? – Philippians 4:14-19; Matthew 10:40-42

APOSTOLIC FAREWELL AND BENEDICTION Philippians 4:20-23 Paul concluded this epistle by acknowledging the supporting role of his companions and conveying their greetings to the brethren. He was a team builder. He also showered apostolic blessings and good wishes upon them. Greeting is a sign of courtesy and respect; it should be an integral part of our lives. We should appreciate and commend our fellow brethren and ministers.

APOSTOLIC FAREWELL AND BENEDICTION Philippians 4:20-23 QUESTION 4: What challenge does Paul’s style of leadership pose to contemporary Christian leaders? – 1 Corinthians 3:6 QUESTION 5: Why is the grace of God vital in the believer’s walk with the Lord? – 1 Corinthians 15:10; Hebrews 12:28

CONCLUSION We all have needs; however faith in God and moderation distinguish believers from unbelievers. Always present your requests to God with the assurance that He will “supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus”. We should give our lives, time and money for the progress of the gospel. Courtesy, humility and appreciation for our fellow brethren should lubricate our Christian machinery.