Philippians Fall 2005 - IBS

“ I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…”
PHILIPPIANS
Week Passage and Skill Memorize Page
Week 1 Philippians Survey ----- pg 5
Week 2 Philippians 1:1-11 and “Observe Like a Pro” 1:9-10 pg 7
Week 3 Philippians 1:12-18a and “Ask Great Questions” 1:11 pg 11
Week 4 Philippians 1:18b-30 and “Apply Truth to Your Life” 1:21 pg 15
Week 5 Philippians 2:1-11 and “See the Big Picture” 2:3-4 pg 19
Week 6 Philippians 2:12-30 and “ID the Structure” 2:14-15 pg 23
Week 7 Philippians 3:1-11 and “Discover the Answer” 3:8 pg 27
Week 8 Philippians 3:12-4:1 and “Study Key Words” 3:13-14 pg 30
Week 9 Philippians 4:2-9 and “Map the Passage” 4:9 pg 36
Week 10 Philippians 4:10-23 and “Dig Deeper” 4:19-20 pg 41
Week 11 Synthesis ---- pg 45
Appendix (Helpful Bonus Material + Review of English grammar) pgs 49-57
Front Cover Photo: The Forum in Philippi from the West
Image and following caption courtesy of www.HolyLandPhotos.org
“View, from the west, looking southeast along the southern edge (right side) of the forum.
Note the extensive pavement and also the stairs and reereected columns on the right (south)
side of the forum. There was a portico and shops to the right of these columns.
The forum was a paved rectangular area measuring 330 x 165 ft. [100 x 50 m.]. This
rebuilding of the forum was done during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (ca. A.D. 160). The
forum of Paul’s day actually lies below this one.”
Back Cover Graphic: Grace Bible Church Leadership Pathway

Every Christian is called by God to be a leader, a person of spiritual influence, whether they
lead one person or a thousand people. We might lead in our homes, lead a small group at
church, mentor a younger believer, or positively influence our coworkers. It is difficult to
lead well, though, without being certain of the destination. What does a mature Christian
really understand, believe, and do? This graphic is an attempt to answer that question by
providing clear goals for each stage of leadership. While this list of goals is certainly not
exhaustive, it will help you take the next step towards becoming a fully equipped leader.
© Copyright Blake Jennings and Brian Fisher, Grace Bible Church, College Station, TX, 2005. This
document may be reproduced and distributed freely, but you may not charge a fee greater than your
manufacturing costs. No section of this document may be modified without the written consent of
Grace Bible Church.
Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®,

© Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman
Foundation, used by permission.
Sources Utilized:
Gower, R., & Wright, F. The New Manners and Customs of Bible Times. Chicago: Moody Press, 1997.
Keener, C.S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity
Press, 1993.
Morton, Shannon. “Essentials of English Grammar.” Unpublished notes.
Richards, L. The Bible Reader's Companion. Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books, 1991.
Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. The Bible Knowledge Commentary : An
Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985.
Wood, D., & Marshall, I. H. New Bible Dictionary (3rd ed.). Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1996.
Special thanks to the following: Julie Jennings and Renee Davis for assistance in writing IBS skill sections
and helpful guidance in making the packet more devotionally oriented; Matt and Shannon Morton, Emily
Brown, Carolyn Jones, and Brad and Susan Evans for proof-reading the packet and making numerous
helpful suggestions.
© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 2

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. 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. Philippians 4:8-9
Welcome to the book of Philippians!

Over the next 11 weeks, we will study the book of Philippians in detail, committing portions of it to
memory, digging into the individual verses to determine what truths God desires to communicate, and
applying these truths to our everyday lives. These steps are part of a process called Inductive Bible Study,
where we seek to draw out the truths of scripture for ourselves and apply them concretely to our lives. What
does this process look like? Inductive Bible Study is a five-step process:
Survey – See the big picture.
Observe – Ask and answer, “What do I see?”
Interpret – Ask and answer, “What does it mean?”
Apply – Ask and answer, “How does it work?”
Synthesize – Put the parts back together.
Now look at the diagram below as we learn about each of these steps in greater detail. Imagine that
you were studying a forest. In the first step, SURVEY, you fly quickly over the forest as a whole to get a
sense of the big picture. In the same way, during our first week of Survey in Philippians, we will look at the
book as a whole to discover who wrote it, why he wrote it, to whom he wrote it, and what overall themes
were addressed. Next, you would land the helicopter and spend the bulk of your time studying individual
trees. In the same way, the bulk of our study this semester will involve detailed study of each passage
(typically around 10 verses at a time). This detailed study involves 3 steps that we repeat for each passage:
First, we OBSERVE the text by asking “What do I see?” We start by observing the passage as a whole,
recording major themes, creating a passage title, and reflecting on the passage’s impact for our lives. Then
we get detailed and look at each individual verse, highlighting key words and writing out all the questions
we can think of. Second, we INTERPRET the text by asking, “What does it mean?” We’ll study a number
of practical tools this semester that will help us answer that question. Third, we APPLY the truth that
we’ve learned to our everyday lives by asking, “How does it work?” Each week we’ll repeat these 3 steps
until we complete the book. Returning to our forestry analogy, once you finished studying each tree, you’d
return to your helicopter and fly quickly back over the forest to try to understand how all the details you’ve
learned fit together. Likewise, our final step in an Inductive Bible Study is to SYTHESIZE what we’ve
learned over the entire semester by summarizing our findings in charts, outlines, and final applications.
These five steps – survey, observe, interpret, apply, and synthesize – are your keys to discovering truth
from God’s Word both now and for the rest of your lives. Learn them well so that you, too, can become an
“approved workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15).
1. Survey 5. Synthesis
2. Observation 3. Interpretation 4. Application

“What do I see?” “What does it mean?” “How does it work?”

Quiet Times 101
Before we begin our study, let’s answer a couple of vital questions:
(1) Why do so few Christians spend personal time digging into God’s Word? While
many complain that they don’t know how, don’t have the time, or simply find it boring, the #1 reason Christians
choose not to study God’s Word is simply that they don’t realize what they’ll gain from it. So what will you
gain from personal time in the Word? First, you will grow spiritually (1 Pet 2:2). Just as an infant can’t grow
physically without milk, so we can’t grow spiritually without personal time in God’s Word. We’re either in the
Word and the Word is growing us to be more like Christ, or we’re in the world and the world is squeezing us
into its own mold. These are the only two options! Second, you will become spiritually mature (Heb 5:11-
14). Do you want to be a mature follower of Jesus Christ who obeys Him consistently? Fail to spend regular
personal time in the Word and you guarantee yourself a lifetime of spiritual immaturity! Third, you will
become effective in ministry (2 Tim 3:16-17). If you want to live a life that counts for eternity, you must be
equipped through personal time in God’s Word. Only the Holy Spirit and the Word of God can teach, reprove,
correct, and train you to minister to others effectively. So, why should we spend our time studying the Bible?
Because only as we personally spend time in God’s Word will we grow in our faith, become mature followers
of Christ, and reach out to others effectively in eternally significant ways. If instead we choose not to make the
Word a priority in our daily lives, we consign ourselves to a life of immaturity and eternal insignificance.
Okay, so we now know why we should spend time in the Word (often called “having a quiet time”).
But how do we do it?
(2) What should a week of quiet times look like? Since every one of us is unique, we can’t
expect that there is any one right way to have a quiet time. In fact, most mature believers find it best to
periodically try new ways of digging into God’s Word. That keeps their time with Him fresh and energizing.
Yet even though there are countless ways to structure your own quiet time, it is often helpful to start with an
example and modify it as you see fit. The following example assumes that you would spend
approximately 30 minutes a day for four days a week studying Philippians through the guidance of this
packet. Each week you can flip back to this example structure to guide your time in Philippians. Feel free to
spread out the listed tasks over more days if you need. Or combine them into fewer but longer quiet times.
Day 1: Day 3:
• Open with prayer & confession of sins (3 min) • Open with prayer & confession of sins (3 min)
• Read week’s skill section (5 min) • Re-read whole chapter & review your first 2 days of
• Read whole chapter of Philippians (5 min) work (5 min)
• Re-read this week’s passage (2 min) • Answer 3 of your own questions [Int A] (12 min)
• Determine passage themes and title(s) (7 min) • Begin answering guided questions [Int B] (10 min)
• Complete first “Reflection” section (8 min) • End by praying that the Lord would make the truths
you’ve learned in this passage real in your life.
Day 2: Day 4:
• Open with prayer & confession of sins (3 mins) • Open with prayer & confession of sins (3 mins)
• Mark up entire passage; write down key • Finish guided questions [Int B] (10 mins)
observations and questions (22 mins) • Complete application section (12 mins)
• Complete second “Reflection” section (5 mins) • Complete final “Reflection” section (5 mins)
Use the days you’re not studying Philippians to add variety to your quiet times (3 days per
week in the example above). For example, you may want to devote your whole time on these days to
prayer. You could spend the first 15 minutes praising and thanking God and confessing your own sins
and then the second 15 minutes praying for specific requests, both for yourself and for others. Or you
may want to devote these three days to reading in a different book of the Bible, such as Psalms or one of
the gospels, and then following that with a time of prayer.

PHILIPPIANS
Week 1
SURVEY
Read the book of Philippians twice, each time at a single sitting. Then read Acts chapter 16:6-40 and the
following background article on Philippians. Finally, fill in the “Survey Worksheet” on the following page.
Intro. Somewhere between 49 and 52 AD, during his second missionary journey, Paul crossed into the continent
of Europe for the first time and came to the Roman city of Philippi, where he led several people to Christ. Among these
were Lydia and her family and the Philippian jailer and his family. It is interesting to note from Acts 16 that [1] God acted
in supernatural ways to lead Paul to Philippi and that [2] the city appears to have had very few Jews (only 10 male Jews
were needed to start a synagogue, yet there wasn’t one). Soon after Paul’s visit, a local church was established which in
later years significantly aided Paul in his ministry to the Roman world. This epistle was written to thank the church for
their faithful support as well as to help them continue to mature. Philippians is personal and practical in its tone and
teaching. In it, Paul emphasizes the need for believers to rejoice in Christ and frequently discusses the mind of a child of
God, for in his view one’s manner of life is a reflection of what occupies his mind.
The Human Author and Date. Most scholars agree Philippi

that the Apostle Paul wrote the Book of Philippians since [1]
the work clearly claims to come from him (1:1), [2] reference
to Timothy is significant since he was with the apostle when
Philippi was evangelized (Acts 16), [3] the information the
writer gave about himself (3:4-6) harmonizes perfectly with
Paul’s life, and [4] the writings of the early church fathers
attest to Pauline authorship. Paul was in bondage when he
wrote Philippians (see 1:7,13-14). But all do not agree on
where this imprisonment occurred, whether Rome, Caesarea,
or Ephesus. His reference to the palace guard (1:13) as well as
his concern about facing possible imminent death (1:20-26)
argues for his writing from Rome. The date of the writing would then be A.D. 61 or 62, approximately 10 years after
Paul’s first visit to Philippi. You can find an outline of Paul’s life and ministry in the Appendix.
The City of Philippi. Philippi was the leading city of the Roman province of Macedonia (Acts 16:12) and a
significant stopping point on the Via Ignatia. Many of its original settlers were forced to relocate from Rome to Philippi,
yet these same residents were given special privileges including the “Italic right.” This meant that the colonists, in return
for their displacement, were treated as if their land were part of Italian soil. So the residents were citizens of Rome, and
enjoyed the full rights of Roman citizenship, including exemption from taxes and legal protection from torture. So Paul’s
words (1:27) “conduct yourselves” (lit. “live as citizens”) and “our citizenship is in heaven” (3:20) had special meaning to
the Christians at Philippi. The citizens of Philippi spoke Latin and dressed like the people of Rome. They allowed a great
diversity of cults and pagan deities in their city and practiced syncretism – the mixture of many religious practices and
deities. Yet they held special reverence for the emperor of Rome whom they worshipped as a god.
The Historic Occasion. When the Philippian believers heard about Paul’s imprisonment at Rome, they sent
Epaphroditus, who may have been their pastor, to minister to him. He personally comforted Paul, expressing to him the
affection of the saints in Philippi, and brought Paul a financial contribution from them so that his confinement would be
more comfortable (4:18). Three times before (4:15-16; cf. 2 Cor. 11:9) these saints had ministered to his needs. Thus, this
letter might be called a thank-you note to the saints in Philippi for their generous gifts. Epaphroditus delivered the letter
after he had recovered from a near fatal illness (2:27).
Yet even though his initial reason for writing seems to have been to thank the Philippians for their loving gift,
Paul also took advantage of this opportunity to address some of the problems in their church. Apparently rivalry and
personal ambition were present among some of the saints (2:3-4; 4:2). Furthermore, the Judaizers were also gaining a
hearing (3:1-3) which was seriously worrying to Paul (3:18-19).

SURVEY WORKSHEET
Theme (WHAT is the controlling idea that holds all the parts together?):
Purposes (WHY was it written? What events or issues prompted its writing?):
Date (WHEN was it written?):
Author (WHO wrote it?):

Brief personal history up to the writing of this letter
Character qualities, etc.
Current location and situation
Relationship with recipients
Recipients (WHO received it, WHAT were they like, and WHERE did they live?):
Main Ideas and Repeated Themes (WHAT really stands out?):
Key Verses:

Philippians 1:1-11
Week 2
TEXT:
SKILL: Observe Like a Pro

Every time you study a passage in the Bible, the first thing you should do is ask, “What do I see?” This is the
crucial skill of OBSERVATION, and it lays the groundwork for our study of the Bible just like a foundation does for a
house. Do your observations well and all that’s built upon them (Interpretation and Application) will be off to a strong
start. But do them poorly and you guarantee that the rest of your study will be insignificant or even inaccurate! So each
week consistently follow the seven steps below to develop a habit of finding the most significant observations. After
following these steps, write your most significant observations in the space provided to the right of the passage. I’ve given
you examples on the next page to help you see how this skill works. You can also find a great example from Acts 1:8 on
pg 50 (with 32 observations from this one verse!) Try this method for a few weeks and then feel free to make
modifications to fit your style better. You could use colored highlighters instead of the symbols below. Or you could do
all your observations on a computer if you find that easier.
1. Start by Praying that God would open your eyes to understand and apply the passage.
2. Underline all the verbs. Go through and underline all the verbs in each sentence.
3. Double underline any commands, admonitions, warnings, or promises.
4. Box all connecting words. Here are some examples (a complete list can be found on p23) :
- “but” often indicates contrast
- “and, like, likewise” often indicate comparison
- “because, for” often introduce a reason or result of the previous statement
- “so that, in order that, that” often introduce a purpose of the previous statement
5. Circle any key terms. These are words that are important theologically (like “predestined” in Eph 1:5) or
thematically (they set the theme or main idea for the passage, such as “chose” in Eph 1:4 or “grace” in Eph 1:6)
6. Highlight anything that’s repeated often, such as themes, ideas, or key words.
7. Add descriptive arrows, lines, words, etc. that help you link words & phrases together in each verse. A
helpful way to start this is to ask for each verb: Who did this action? What did they do? Whom did it
benefit? When did they do it? Why did they do it? How did they do it?
Here’s an example of this 7-step process for Philippians 1:9-10: Why?

What?
9
And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you
Why?
may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ
Which things? When?

Read Phil 1:1-11 and write down the key themes or ideas you see. Then summarize
See the Big Picture the passage with one or more titles (instructions on p19).
Key Themes/Ideas: Passage Title(s):
thankfulness vv
vv
vv
Re-read this passage noting Paul’s attitude towards those to whom he ministers. What can
Reflection you personally learn from Paul’s example?

Mark up Phil 1:1-11 & record your key observations in the right-hand box. You may want to map the
Observe passage on a computer or on another sheet of paper (see p36).
Key Observations:
1
Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in
v1-2
• He describes himself and
2 Timothy as “bond-servants.”
Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: Grace to • He writes to “all” of the saints in
Philippi, not just the leaders.
• The verse lacks a verb and reads
like a fax “To…From” coversheet.
you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 v3-4
I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4always offering prayer • The main verb of these verses is
“thank” in v 3.
• Paul is “always” offering prayer
for the Philippians.
with joy in my every prayer for you all, 5in view of your participation in the • Paul always prays for them out
of an attitude of “joy” (v 4).
gospel from the first day until now. 6For 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. v5-6
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. 8For God is my witness, how I v7-8
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, 10so that you may approve the things that are v9-10
excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; 11having
been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes* through Jesus Christ, to
the glory and praise of God. v11
* In the NASB translation we are using, italicized words are clearly implied but not explicitly
present in the Greek text. Don’t worry about this for it rarely affects the meaning of a passage.
What observation affected you most? Why?

Reflection
Spend a few minutes responding in prayer. Then begin to memorize Phil 1:9-10.

??? My Questions Write 3 questions you have from Phil 1:1-11 and attempt to answer them (find help on p27)
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
Guided Questions To better understand Phil 1:1-11, attempt to answer these questions (find help p27)
1) What is the “good work” which God will complete in verse 6 (note: this verse could be translated,
“He who began a good work in/by/through/with you....”)? Start by listing all the viable options for
what this “good work” is, and then decide which one fits both the surrounding context of this
passage and the context of the book of Philippians as a whole.
2) What truths do we learn from Paul’s prayer in vv9-11?
What is the relationship between love and knowledge? Why do we need both?
3) What qualities in Paul do you find from vv1-11 which helped make him such an outstanding
disciple-maker?
4) In one sentence of your own words, describe the main point that Paul communicates in Phil 1:1-11
(instructions on p19).

Prayerfully answer the following questions to help you apply what you’ve learned from
Apply Phil 1:1-11
1. Compare your prayer life with what we see of Paul’s in these verses. Where do you fall short of his
example?
2. After praying to God for conviction and insight, what concrete changes do you feel you should make
this week to your prayer life? What exactly will you do differently this week than last week – get
specific and be realistic!!
3. Who will hold you accountable next week to see if you’ve followed through?
Reflection
Review your memory verses for the week – Phil 1:9-10. Then write out these verses below from memory:
“I do not believe that wonder can ever be retained apart from learning the discipline
and delight of prayer. In the closet of our lives lies the fullness of His riches. In the
secret place lie unmined treasures.”
Ravi Zacharias
Now spend a few minutes responding in prayer. Thank God for what you’ve learned and
pray for His help to follow through on your application. Pray for the others in your group
that they will continue to grow in the Lord and successfully apply what they’ve learned. □
Week 3
TEXT: Philippians 1:12-18a
SKILL: Ask Great Questions
Why must we invest the time to discover lots of observations each week? Because they serve as the
foundation for this week’s skill, Asking Great Questions, which is the first step in the process of
Interpretation. As you may have already noticed, when you mentally dig into a passage during
observation, your mind naturally generates challenging questions based on your observations. Why did Paul
use this word? What does this phrase mean? What is the flow of thought in this sentence? This week we
want to help you refine your question asking skills so that you can come up with the most important
questions in any passage.
First, as you’re asking questions, don’t worry about HOW to answer them. At this point, simply
ask every question you can think of. Second, be thorough by asking lots of WHAT and WHY questions.
Here are some examples:
WHAT is the…
o …meaning of a word?
o …significance of a word, phrase, idea, or literary structure?
o …implication of a statement?
o …relationship between words, ideas, phrases, or passages?
o …atmosphere or mood of the passage?
o …structure and form used in the passage?
WHY did Paul…

o …choose this word or phrase?
o …not say ________?
o …connect these ideas?
o …put this idea before that idea?
o …include this idea at all?
Now it’s time for you to get some practice. On the next page, mark up your observations just as
you did last week. Then, either above each verse or in the box on the right, write out two questions
for each verse.
Read Phil 1:12-18a and write down the key themes or ideas you see. Then
See the Big Picture summarize the passage with one or more titles (instructions on p19).
vv
vv
vv
From this passage, what would you say are Paul’s highest priorities in life?
Reflection
What priority does the spread of the gospel have in your own life? Why?

Mark up Phil 1:12-18a & record your key observations & questions in the right-hand box. You may
Observe want to map the passage on a computer or on another sheet of paper (see p36).
Key Observations & Questions:
12
Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned
v12
• The Philippians are his “brethren.”
• Paul evaluates his circumstances
thru the grid of the progress of the
out for the greater progress of the gospel, 13so that my imprisonment in the cause gospel.
v13
of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to
everyone else, 14and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my
v14
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
v15
from good will; 16the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the
defense of the gospel; 17the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather v16
than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.
18 v17
What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is
proclaimed; and in this I rejoice.
v18
Yes, and I will rejoice,

Reflection
Spend a few minutes responding in prayer. Then begin to memorize Phil 1:11 and review 1:9-10.

??? My Questions Choose your top 3 questions from Phil 1:12-18a and attempt to answer them (find help on p27)
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
Guided Questions To better understand Phil 1:12-18a, attempt to answer these questions (find help p27)
1) What motivated Paul to write Phil 1:12-18a?
2) Read Galatians 1:6-9. Why is Paul’s response different than in Philippians 1? In other words, why
does he rejoice that the envious and ambitious people of Phil 1:17 are preaching, yet curse those
who are preaching in Galatians 1:8-9?
3) How is God’s sovereignty and wisdom revealed in vv12-18?
What things kept Paul from becoming bitter at his unfair treatment?
4) In one sentence of your own words, describe the main point that Paul communicates in Phil 1:12-
18a (instructions on p19).

Prayerfully answer the following questions to help you apply what you’ve learned from
Apply Phil 1:12-18a.
1. What circumstance(s) are the most difficult for you to accept and rejoice in?
2. What can you do in the midst of these difficult circumstances to help you accept them with an
attitude like Paul’s?
3. After praying to God for conviction and insight, what concrete changes to your life do you feel you
should make this week to help you accept difficult circumstances? What exactly will you do
differently this week than last week – get specific and be realistic!!
Reflection
Review your memory verse for the week – Phil 1:11. Then write out all of 1:9-11 below from memory:
“Work should be regarded less with reference of its immediate results, or as to how it may affect this
or that person; the great question is, will it, when sifted in His presence, be acceptable to Him? And
this acceptability to Him is my reward . . .”
Oswald Chambers
Philippians 1:18b-30
Week 4
TEXT:
SKILL: Apply Truth to Your Life

During the Application stage, we ask and answer the question, “How does it work?” Just as an opera’s not over
until the fat lady sings, so Bible study’s not over until you’ve applied what you’ve learned to your life (see John 14:21).
How do you personally apply God’s truth accurately and powerfully? First, you must observe and interpret well, or you
risk wrongly applying the passage to your life! Second, as with all aspects of Bible study, you must prepare yourself
through prayer. Finally, with these initial steps complete, you begin to ask yourself a series of questions:
1) What are a few key truths or commands I discovered in this week’s passage? Your goal here is to identify 2 or 3
factual statements or commands in this week’s passage that are central to the author’s message. If any truth or
command in the passage convicted you during your study, be sure to include it as one of your choices! As you list
principles, be sure to check that they are timeless – that they are true for each of us today. Principles are not limited
or canceled by later Biblical revelation, nor are they only applicable to one person or one small group of people.
2) How am I doing? When do I struggle to live out this truth or command? Now you begin to compare the
principle you’ve discovered to your own life. Are you living out this principle in all areas of your life on a regular
basis, or are you falling short? Get very specific and write out in detail the circumstances or situations where you
most struggle to live out this truth or command.
3) What is one practical way that I can begin to live out this truth or command this week? Begin by thinking
through the following questions for ideas:
Is there something to worship or thank God for?
Is there a promise for me to claim or a truth for me to believe?
Is there something I am convicted about that I need to change or begin doing?
Is there something or someone I need to pray for specifically this week?
Is there any relationship I need to work on?
It’s usually helpful to ask the follow-up question: What exactly will I do differently this week than last week? Will
you wash the dishes every Thursday night? Will you invite your neighbor to church this week? Will you write an
encouraging note to a friend? Will you watch no more than 1 hour of TV per day? If you don’t make your
application very concrete, you’re almost sure to fail (it’s very easy to wiggle out of a poorly defined application!)
4) Who will hold me accountable next week to see if I’ve followed through? Don’t skip this step! We all need help
in our spiritual growth. So choose a close believing friend or family member to hold you accountable, or ask your
group leader or a fellow member of your group. Tell him or her exactly what you intend to do this week and ask this
person to call you next week to check your progress.
Read Phil 1:18b-30 and write down the key themes or ideas you see. Then
See the Big Picture summarize the passage with one or more titles (instructions on p19).
vv
vv
vv
Describe Paul’s perspective on life and death from vv20-25.
Reflection
Honestly fill in this blank for yourself, “For me, to live is ______________.” What would need to change for the blank to be
filled in with “Christ”?

Mark up Phil 1:18b-30 & record your key observations & questions in the right-hand box. You may

Yes, and I will rejoice, 19for I know that this will turn out for my
v18-19
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 v20-21
exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22But if I am to live on in
the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to v22-23
choose. 23But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to
depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24yet to remain on in the
flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25Convinced of this, I know that I will v24-25
remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26so that
your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to
you again.
v26-27
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
v28-29
the gospel; 28in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of
destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God. 29For to
you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to
v30
suffer for His sake, 30experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and
now hear to be in me.

Reflection
Spend a few minutes responding in prayer. Then begin to memorize Phil 1:21.

??? My Questions Write your top 3 questions from Phil 1:18b-30 and attempt to answer them (find help on p27)
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
Guided Questions To better understand Phil 1:18b-30, attempt to answer these questions (find help p27)
1) What kind of “salvation” is Paul referring to in v19 (it is translated “deliverance” here in the NASB, but
is usually translated “salvation” elsewhere)? First, look at the following verses to see what different
ways this Greek word can be used: Acts 4:12; 14:9; 27:20; Rom 5:9-10; 15:30-32; Eph 2:8; Phil 2:12-
13; Heb 11:7; Jude 5.
Second decide which possible use best fits in Phil 1:19, and be ready to defend your answer.
How might we apply and receive encouragement from verse 19?
2) The word for “conduct” in v27 could also be translated “discharge your obligations as citizens.”
Describe the significance of this unique word in v27 in light of what you learned about the Philippians
when you surveyed the book (note especially Acts 16:21,37-38).
Using vv27b-30, list out the specific things the Philippians needed to do in order to live “worthy” lives.
3) In one sentence of your own words, describe the main point that Paul communicates in Phil 1:18b-
30 (instructions on p19).

Prayerfully look back over your study and reflections for this week and then use the following chart to
Apply help you apply what you’ve learned from Phil 1:18b-30.
TIMELESS PRINCIPLES HOW ARE YOU DOING?
List some timeless truths or commands you discovered in this Do YOU consistently live out this principle? If not, when do
week’s passage that apply to ALL Christians: you struggle to obey it? Be honest and specific!
ex1. Believers are called to not merely endure I rarely experience genuine suffering. Yet last month
when I suffered the ridicule of my extended family for
a life of suffering, but to take joy in it as a gift
being a Christian, I gave into feelings of self-pity and
“granted” by God. bitterness rather than responding like Paul does here.
ex2. Instead of fearing death, believers should
realize that it is actually a benefit, for it puts
us instantly in the presence of Jesus Christ.
3.
4.
DON’T STOP YET!! After praying for insight and conviction, choose the one principle from the list
above that you are most struggling with and circle it. How will you practically live out this truth or
command this week? Think through these questions for ideas:
1. What exactly will you do differently this week than last week – get specific and be realistic!!
ex – If my extended family ridicules me for my faith when I visit them next month, I will respond by (1) thanking the Lord for
allowing me to suffer for Christ’s sake and (2) asking for His help to respond in joy rather than self-pity.
Reflection
Review your memory verse for the week – Phil 1:21. Then write out this verse below from memory:
“How shalt thou bear the cross that now

So dread a weight appears?
Keep quietly to God, and think
Upon the Eternal Years.”
E. W. Faber
Philippians 2:1-11
Week 5
TEXT:
SKILL: See the Big Picture

By this time, you are probably already familiar with the “See the Big Picture” section on page 1 of each
week’s study. The goal of this section is to help you keep the Big Picture, the context of the whole passage,
constantly in mind as you are doing interpretation and application. Nothing is more important for arriving at
accurate answers to your questions than keeping the overall context in mind. Therefore, we’ve provided two
steps each week to help you discover the big picture of the passage you’re studying. We’ve also provided a
third step embedded in each week’s “Guided Questions” section to help you refine your understanding of the
Big Picture by writing a summary sentence for the passage. Well, now that you’ve tried these three steps for a
few weeks, it’s probably a good time to give you the official directions! You’ll do the first two steps,
discovering themes and creating titles, first thing each week. Then, towards the end of your week of study
you’ll do the final step: summarizing the passage.
1) Discover 2-3 Primary Themes in a passage. A primary theme is a central idea, truth, or command that the passage
focuses on. In Philippians 2:1-11, two themes come to mind, “the humble example of Christ” and “the need for unity.” These
are dominant ideas that motivated Paul to write 2:1-11. It’s usually best to look for 2-3 themes in each passage and state
them as a short phrase. By identifying these themes at the beginning of your study you develop a good overall grasp of the
passage which will guide you during the interpretation phase.
2) Create 1-3 Passage Title(s). Once you have discovered the key themes of the passage, it’s time to create one to five
word titles that capture the big picture. Start by reading back over the whole week’s passage and deciding how many titles
you will need. Is this a relatively short passage that seems focused on one key idea? If so, create a single title for the entire
passage. Phil 1:12-18a is a good example – it’s a short passage focused on the good results that are coming from Paul’s
present imprisonment. Therefore, you could write a single title for the entire passage, such as “Good from Bad Times and
Motives.” Other passages, such as Phil 1:18b-30, may be better split into multiple titles, such as “Paul’s Confident Hope” for
1:18b-20, “Paul’s Joy in Life and Death” for 1:21-26, and “Be Worthy through Unity” for 1:27-30.
3) Summarize the Passage in one sentence. Towards the end of each week’s lesson, we’ll create a summary sentence:
a concise sentence in your own words that accurately encapsulates the author’s main point in a given passage. Usually this
sentence will focus on the themes you discovered at the beginning of the week’s study. Don’t try to include everything that
Paul says in your sentence, or it will be too long to be helpful! Simply include the big ideas. Here are a couple of examples
from Philippians:
Summary Sentence for Phil 1:1-2…
“Paul and Timothy greet the Philippian saints by extending God’s grace and peace to them.”
Summary Sentence for Phil 1:12-18a…

“Paul rejoices that the gospel has advanced even through painful circumstances and bad motives.”
See the Big Picture the passage with one or more titles.
vv
vv
vv
Before moving on, spend a couple of minutes to come up with your own definition of
Reflection humility.
When you’ve finished the “Guided Questions” section this week, come back to this section and modify your definition as
needed to reflect your study of “humility” in this passage.

Mark up Phil 2:1-11 & record your key observations & questions in the right-hand box. You may want
Observe to map the passage on a computer or on another sheet of paper (see p36).

1
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any
v1-2
consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and
compassion, 2make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining
the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3Do nothing from v3-4
selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as
more important than yourselves; 4do not merely look out for your own personal
v5-6
interests, but also for the interests of others. 5Have this attitude in yourselves
which was also in Christ Jesus, 6who, although He existed in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7but emptied Himself,
v7-8
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. 9For this reason also, God
v9-10
highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every
name, 10so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in
heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and that every tongue will confess
v11
that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Reflection

??? My Questions Write your top 3 questions from Phil 2:1-11 and attempt to answer them (find help on p27)
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
1) How does 2:1-4 relate to 1:27-30?
How does 2:5-11 relate to 2:1-4? In other words, why does Paul include this description of Jesus’
humility and exaltation?
2) Define unity. Does it mean that we always agree (see Rom 14:1-6 and 1 Cor 8:4-13)?
What is the relationship between humility and unity?
3) In what sense did Jesus Christ “empty” Himself (2:7)? Was He less than God while on earth (Col.
2:9; John 1:1-3,14; Heb. 1:1-3)?
What do we learn about the relationship between God the Father and God the Son in this passage?
4) In one sentence of your own words, describe the main point that Paul communicates in Phil 2:1-11.

Apply help you apply what you’ve learned from Phil 2:1-11.
ex1. Every believer is called to actively I do not consistently live this out and particularly
struggle when I am tired or stressed. I especially struggle
pursue/seek the interests (the good) of other
when I get home on Tuesdays as this is my longest day of
believers. the week.
2.
3.
4.
ex – Since I really struggle on Tuesday evenings after work, this week I will begin to form a habit of praying when I cross
the traffic light at Holleman on my way home. I will pray for God’s help to leave behind the stress of the day and actively
serve my family/roommates.
Reflection
“May we be kept lowly and self-emptied, so that we may be continually filled with Christ. This is
true rest—true blessedness. May the language of our hearts, and the distinct utterance of our lives
ever be, ‘Behold the Lamb of God.’”
C.H. Mackintosh
Week 6
TEXT: Philippians 2:12-30
SKILL: ID the Structure
This week we will add one more powerful observation skill to our repertoire – identifying structural
indicators in a passage. Structural indicators are logical connections an author creates to develop his
argument within a paragraph and throughout a book. Noticing these will help you to understand the
author’s flow of thought and even help you build an outline of the book. These indicators can sometimes be
identified from the “key structural terms”
terms that we’ve listed below.
(But note, the presence of a key term does not necessarily mean that a certain structural indicator is present. For example, just because you see “and” in a
particular verse does not mean that the author is making a comparison. In Ephesians 2:1, Paul uses “and” simply to introduce a new section that is loosely
connected to chapter 1. Yet, when you do see these key terms, it’s a good clue that you probably are looking at the matching structural indicator.)
Comparison / Connection: points out the similarities between two or more related ideas (comparison), or simply joins
like ideas (connection). Key words are “and, like, as, just as, also, so also, even so” as in Phil 2:5 (“also”) and twice in Phil
3:3 (“and”).
Contrast: points out dissimilarities between thoughts or ideas. Key words are “but, rather, yet, however” as in Phil 3:7, 4:6
(“but”) and Phil 1:24 (“yet”) and Phil 1:17 (“rather”).
Purpose / Result: these two are hard to tell apart. Purpose indicates the intended goal of an idea(s), action(s), or event(s)
and is indicated by key words “that, so that, in order that” as in Phil 3:11 and Rom 7:4 (“in order that”). Result, on the other
hand, indicates the actual consequences and is indicated by key words “that, so that, as a result, with the result that” as in Phil
1:13 (“so that”).
Cause: expresses the basis or cause of an action and is indicated by “because, since” as in Phil 1:7; 2:16 and 2:26 (twice).
Instrumentation: describes the means to an end. Key word is “through” as in Phil 1:19; 3:9.
Explanation: what follows the key word further explains the previous idea(s) (what follows gives reasons why it is true, or
why it occurred, or simply adds additional information). Look for the key word “for” as in Phil 1:21; 2:21; 3:20.
Inference: provides a logical consequence, a conclusion, or a summary to the previous discussion and is indicated by
“therefore, for this reason” as in Phil 2:9 (“for this reason”) and 4:1 (“therefore”) and Rom 1:24,26.
Questions: structure is built around questions posed and answered by the author (or a hypothetical opponent created by the
author) as in Rom 3:5; 6:1; 7:7.
Condition: presents a condition that must occur before a certain action or conclusion can occur. The statement may or may
not reflect reality (i.e. it could be hypothetical). Key word is “if” as in 1 Cor 2:8 and Phil 1:22.
Illustration: the use of a story, analogy, or quotation to clarify a proposition. The parables are excellent examples as are
Paul’s quotation in Eph 5:14 and his analogy in Gal 4:22-31.
Repetition: reiteration of the same word or phrase or a similar word or phrase. Examples include “these are the
generations of….” in Genesis, “By faith…” in Hebrews 11, and “…for His lovingkindness is everlasting….” in Psalm 136.
vv
vv
vv
We live in a dark society that is anything but “blameless and innocent.” What do you think
Reflection it looks like in day-to-day life to “appear as lights” in such a dark world?

Mark up Phil 2:12-30 & record your key observations & questions in the right-hand box. You may
12 Key Observations & Questions:

So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my
v12-14
presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with
fear and trembling; 13for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work
for His good pleasure. 14Do all things without grumbling or disputing; 15so 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 v15-17
16
appear as lights in the world, 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. 18You too, I urge
you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me. v18-20
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. 20For I have no one else
of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. 21For they all
seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. 22But you know of his
v21-23
proven worth, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child
serving his father. 23Therefore I hope to send him immediately, as soon as I see
how things go with me; 24and 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
v24-26
fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my
need; 26because he was longing for you all and was distressed because you had
heard that he was sick. 27For 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. 28Therefore I have sent him all the more eagerly so that
v27-30
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; 30because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to
complete what was deficient in your service to me.

Reflection

??? My Questions Write your top 3 questions from Phil 2:12-30 and attempt to answer them (find help p27)
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
1) Notice that v12 starts with “so then” or “therefore.” How does 2:12-18 relate to 2:1-11? What is Paul’s
flow of thought?
2) During your study of the word “salvation” in 1:19 (see pg17), you listed out the possible uses of this
word in the NT. Look back at that list, and use the context of chapter 2 to determine what kind of
“salvation” Paul is referring to in v12. Be prepared to defend your choice.
Why should “fear and trembling” characterize how we “work out” our own salvation?
What is Paul telling us in v13? How is this verse a source of hope?
3) How do vv19-30 relate to what has preceded in this chapter? Why does Paul mention these two faithful
men here?

1.
2.
3.
4.
Reflection
“Lovingly God works his life into us by Grace alone, joyfully we hammer out
the reality of this new life on the anvil of discipline. Remember, discipline in
and of itself does not make us righteous; it merely places us before God.
Having done this, discipline has reached the end of its tether. The
transformation . . . is God’s work.”
Richard Foster
Philippians 3:1-11
Week 7
TEXT:
SKILL: Discover the Answer

Now that you’ve learned how to ask lots of great questions you may be wondering, “How do I answer
them?” In coming weeks you will learn three advanced interpretive tools to answer your questions: (1)
Studying Key Words in their original language, (2) Mapping the Passage, and (3) Digging Deeper through
background articles. But before getting to these advanced tools, we want to start with the 5 Fundamental
Tools for Accurate Interpretation. These are the 5 most important steps you can apply each week to answer
your questions. After you’ve prayed for guidance, observed the text, and asked as many questions as you can,
follow these 5 steps to seek out accurate answers:
1) Use the context – The meaning of the verse you are trying to interpret should primarily be determined
by how it fits into its context. Look for important clues in the verses and chapters that come before and
after the verse in question. Try to follow Paul’s flow of thought throughout your passage. This may
take you back to a previous week’s work, so have it handy as a review. You may also need to read
ahead in Philippians; that’s okay, too. You’ll soon see that context is truthfully the most powerful and
helpful interpretive tool we have.
2) Define words – Grab an English dictionary and look up the meaning of key words. You can also find
helpful key word dictionaries in the back of some English study Bibles. In a couple of weeks we will
learn to do in-depth word studies to discover a word’s meaning in the original Greek language (don’t
worry, it’s easier than it sounds!)
3) Compare translations – Look up your passage in a different English translation. If you use New
American Standard (NASB) usually, look it up in the New International Version (NIV) or in the New
King James Version (NKJV). You can find and compare numerous English translations of any Bible
passage at www.biblestudytools.net.
4) Study cross-references – If your Bible provides cross references in the margins, look these up to
discover helpful parallel passages. You can also use the concordance in the back of most English
Bibles to look up a key word in your verse and see where else it is used. Finally, you can turn to an
internet site such as www.biblestudytools.net to help discover even more exhaustive cross-references.
5) Wrestle with the text – Few tough questions are answered accurately in a hurry. So after you’ve used
one or more of the above tools, take some time to wrestle with your question. You may need to trace
Paul’s flow of thought through the passage or carefully weigh 2 possible answers. Try discussing the
question with a friend who’s studying it too. He or she may help you see the question in a new light.
vv
vv
vv
Spend some time in honest reflection to answer the following question: What would be the
Reflection hardest thing in your own life for you to personally give up in order to more fully know
Christ?


1
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again
v1-2
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; 3for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God v3-4
and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh, 4although I myself
might have confidence even in the flesh. If anyone else has a mind to put
confidence in the flesh, I far more: 5circumcised the eighth day, of the nation of v5-6
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. 7But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have v7-8
counted as loss for the sake of Christ. 8More 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
v9-10
gain Christ, 9and 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, 10that I may know Him and the
v11
power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed
to His death; 11in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Reflection

??? My Questions Write your top 3 questions from Phil 3:1-11 and attempt to answer them.
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
Guided Questions To better understand Phil 3:1-11, attempt to answer these questions.
1) What are the “true” and “false circumcision” of 3:2-3? What are the characteristics of each?
2) What does Paul mean by the word “flesh” in 3:2-3?
What does it mean to “put confidence in the flesh?”
3) Summarize Paul’s point in vv7-11 (you can use vv12-14 to help you understand exactly what Paul has in
mind). Start by determining which verses in 7-11 are talking about “justification” and which are talking
about “sanctification”?
What does it mean to “gain Christ,” and why was it necessary for Paul to count all things as loss in order
to “gain Christ”?

1.
2.
3.
4.
Reflection
“There is only one relationships that matters, and that is

your personal relationship to a personal redeemer and
Lord. Let everything else go, but maintain that at all
costs, and God will fulfill His purpose through your life.”
Oswald Chambers
Philippians 3:12-4:1
Week 8
TEXT:
SKILL: Study Key Words

It’s time to learn our first advanced interpretive skill – studying key words in the original Greek. While
looking up key words in an English dictionary is helpful, there are a couple of significant limitations. First,
First the
New Testament (NT) was written in Greek, not English, so our accuracy goes up significantly when we go back
to the original Greek word. Second, a dictionary gives you a nice definition, but not necessarily a good range
of meaning for the word. All words have a range of possible meanings. Think of the English word “trunk” as
an example. It could refer to an elephant’s nose, the back of a car, the middle of a tree, a box in your attic, etc.
Therefore, as we study a key word, we want to first define its range of meaning. Once we’ve defined the range
of meaning thoroughly, we can go back and decide exactly what the word means in our passage. Greek Word
Studies overcome these obstacles to help us accurately interpret our passage. But how do we do them? First
choose a key word to study. Second get access to the internet – technology has really made this skill much
easier! Third follow these steps:
Be encouraged: The instructions for this skill make it look complicated, but after you have done it
once, you will find that it is not difficult at all!
1. FIND ALL THE NT REFERENCES

a. Go to www.biblestudytools.net.
b. In the “search for:” box, type the verse that contains the word you are interested in, such as “Phil 3:15” if you
were studying the key word “perfect” Then, in the box titled “using:” select the translation "NAS with Strong's
Numbers.” Finally, click the "Find" button.
c. After a moment, a new page will appear showing the verse you’ve selected with key words highlighted in blue.
Click on the word you are interested in studying, (“perfect” in this example.)
d. Now a new page appears that gives you information about the original Greek word that you’re interested in
(“τελειος” for the English “perfect”). Towards the right of the page, there is a title “NAS Verse Count.” Below
is a list of the number of times the Greek word appears in each NT book.
e. Click on the first book in the list. This allows you to look at each verse of that book that contains your key word.
By repeating this procedure for each NT book that contains your key word, you will be able to look at every use
of your word in the NT, enabling you to determine the word’s range of meaning.
2. DISCOVER THE RANGE OF MEANING
a. You are now ready to do a word study! Go to the first NT book under “NAS Verse Count” and click on that
book. Once the new screen loads, look at the first verse using your key word, and create a concise definition for
how your key word is used in that verse. Then write the reference after your definition. If you need to, open to
the verse in your Bible and study the surrounding verses to help clarify the meaning.
b. Now, move to the second verse using your key word. If this verse uses the word in exactly the same way (so that
you could use exactly the same definition you just wrote), add its reference behind the first definition. If it uses
it in a different way, create a new, concise definition for this new use and add the reference for this second verse
behind your new definition.
c. Continue to do this for all NT uses of your word. This should create a list of a few definitions, each with one or
more references listed with it (see the example below). This list of definitions has defined your key word’s
“range of meaning” – the range of possible options for what it could mean in your verse.
3. DECIDE ON YOUR USAGE Look back to the original verse you are studying (Phil 3:15 in this example).
Which of the possible definitions best fits? Here are a couple hints to keep in mind:
a. Give more weight to possible definitions that are used elsewhere by your author. In this case, possible
definitions that Paul used in other passages are more likely to fit your verse in question than definitions that only
Luke used.

b. It is possible that in your verse Paul uses the word in a unique way that is never used elsewhere in the NT. This
is pretty unlikely, but it could happen. If so, try to define exactly what Paul has in mind in your verse & justify
why none of the other potential definitions work.
4. SUMMARIZE AND COMPARE (optional)
a. Create a very short summary definition for the word. This should encapsulate the basic idea of the word in every
verse. For example, “death” appears often in the NT in many varied ways. Yet in every case, the basic idea is
“separation,” and this would form your basic definition.
b. Compare your categories of meaning to a Greek Lexicon. If you look back at www.biblestudytools.net, you will
see a lexicon entry for your word on the same page that contained the “NAS Verse List” box. This entry will be
under the title “Definition.”
Example Word Study: “Fruit” in Philippians 1:11 (Greek word “karpos”)

“having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ…”
A) Define the Range of Meaning: (uses by Paul are underlined)

a. Literal “fruit” off of a tree or vine - Mt. 21:34; 1 Cor. 9:7; James 5:18
b. Figurative for Children - Luke 1:42; Acts 2:30
c. Figurative for Godly behavior/character - Mt. 3:8,10; 21:43; Gal. 5:22; Eph. 5:9; Col.
1:10; Heb. 12:11; Js. 3:17,18
d. Figurative for True teaching - Mt. 7:16-21
e. Figurative for Responsiveness to the Gospel - Mt. 13:23
f. Figurative for Converts - Jn. 4:36; 12:24; Rom. 1:13; Phil. 1:22 (results of ministry)
g. Figurative for advantage, gain, profit, benefit - Rom. 6:21,22 (eternal life); Phil. 4:17;
Js. 5:7,8 (spiritual benefit)
h. Figurative for Money given as a gift - Rom. 15:28
i. Figurative for Praise to God - Heb. 13:15
B) Determine the meaning in your verse (Phil 1:11):
Though Paul uses many of the potential definitions above (even in other verses of Philippians), c fits
best since this “fruit” consists of righteousness and enables us to be “blameless” when Christ returns.
C) Create your own Basic Definition:
“The result(s) of a process or activity; could be figurative or literal.”
D) Compare to a Greek Dictionary (Lexicon):
Strong’s: “1 fruit. 1A the fruit of the trees, vines, of the fields. 1B the fruit of one’s loins, i.e. his
progeny, his posterity. 2 that which originates or comes from something, an effect, result.”
Read Phil 3:12-4:1 and write down the key themes or ideas you see. Then
See the Big Picture summarize the passage with one or more titles
vv
vv
vv
Is there anything in your past that you need to ask forgiveness for and “forget?” Is there any
Reflection past failure that is keeping you from moving forward in your Christian life? Spend some time
right now confessing this to the Lord if you haven’t. Then pray for His help to overcome the
guilt and shame you feel and move forward in peace and joy.

Mark up Phil 3:12-4:1 & record your key observations & questions in the right-hand box. You may

12
Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but
v12-13
I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by
Christ Jesus. 13Brethren, 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 v14-15
ahead, 14I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in
Christ Jesus. 15Let 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; v16-17
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. 18For many walk, of whom I often told v18-19
you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of
Christ, 19whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory
is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things. 20For our citizenship is
v20-21
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
v4:1
1
to Himself. Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and
crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.

Reflection

??? My Questions Write your top 3 questions from Phil 3:12-4:1 and attempt to answer them.
1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
Guided Questions To better understand Phil 3:12-4:1, attempt to answer these questions.
1) From your study last week, answer these questions:

a. For what purpose did Christ Jesus lay hold of us (v12)?
b. What is the “goal” (v14) that Paul is pressing on towards?
c. What is the “upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (v14)?
2) Using the instructions on the previous pages, do a Greek word study of “perfect” in v15. What can this
word mean in the NT?
What does it mean in this verse?
3) What is the significance of our “citizenship” being in heaven (v20-21)?
How should that affect both our perspective on life and our behavior today (look back at 1:27 where
“conduct” = “discharge your obligations as citizens”)?
4) In one sentence of your own words, describe the main point that Paul communicates in Phil 3:12-4:1.

Apply help you apply what you’ve learned from Phil 3:12-4:1.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Reflection
“Not many of us are living at our best. We linger in the lowlands because we are afraid to climb the mountains.
The steepness and ruggedness dismay us, and so we stay in the misty valleys and do not learn the mystery of
the hills. We do not know what we lose in our self-indulgence, what glory awaits us if only we had courage for
the mountain climb, what blessing we should find if only we would move the uplands of God.”
J. R. M.
Week 9
SKILL: Map the Passage
Mapping a passage (or what’s often called creating a mechanical layout) is our third advanced tool and a
fantastic way to discover the author’s intended meaning and flow of thought. It also will help you answer many of your
interpretive questions. The first rule of mapping a passage is: There is not one “right” way! However you create
your map, your goal should be to discover the author’s flow of thought by graphically laying out the passage. Here are
some general rules to follow with examples from Ephesians 1:3-5.
1. First identify the main subject and verb of the first sentence 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
(These form the main clause of your sentence.) Write the • This is the main clause of Eph. 1:3
main clause at the top left of your paper. Think of your map
as an outline: This would be your Roman numeral I.
2. Continue writing out the first sentence, placing any 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
modifying phrases or words directly under the words they
who has blessed us with every spiritual
modify. A modifying phrase describes something in the main blessing
clause – how, why, when, to whom, etc.. In an outline, this in the heavenly places in Christ,
would be your first subheading. • “Who” modifies, or is talking about, God in this sentence
• “In the heavenly...” modifies “Has blessed”, it tells us
3. If there are multiple modifiers (several phrases or words all how/where the blessing is given.
talking about the same thing), line them up underneath each
other, under the word or phrase they are modifying.
1:3 ...who has blessed us...
4. Continue writing out the phrases in your sentence, each under 4 just as He chose us...
5 ...He predestined us...
whatever word(s) they modify, until you reach the end of the
* Both of these phrases will have modifiers in your final
sentence or idea being discussed. map, but the phrases themselves should be lined up. This is
like the a., b., c. in your outline.
5. Your map will continue moving to the right of your paper until
the author begins a new idea. At that point, you would put the next main clause back to the far left of your
paper, and begin at step one again. Ideally, you should be able to glance down the left side of your paper
and see the main ideas of the passage you are mapping.
6. As you work, box all connecting words, and note how they 1:4 just as He chose us... {AS implies comparison}
are being used.
example: Titus 3:3-7

For {What follows is REASON for previous verses 3:1-2}
we also once were foolish ourselves
disobedient
deceived
enslaved to various lusts and pleasures
spending our life in malice and envy
hateful
hating one another
But He saved us {CONTRAST to our former condition}
when appeared
the kindness of God our Savior
and His love for mankind
not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness
but according to His mercy {CONTRAST – presents the true basis of our salvation}
by the washing of regeneration {HOW he saved us}
and renewing by the Holy Spirit
whom He poured out upon us richly
through Jesus Christ our Savior
so that we would be made heirs {PURPOSE for His saving us}
being justified by His grace
according to the hope of eternal life
example: Philippians 1:1-11
1
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, {tells us his attitude and consistency in prayer for them}
5
in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. {tells us what he’s thinking about when he thanks God for them}
6
For I am confident of this very thing, {EXPLANATION – gives reason why he thanks God in v3a}
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, {EXPLANATION – gives reason for his attitude in v3-6}
because I have you in my heart, {CAUSE – tells us why it’s right for him to feel this way in v7a}
since you all are partakers of grace with me. {CAUSE – tells us why he cares so deeply for them in v7b}
both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel
8
For God is my witness, {EXPLANATION – gives proof of his deep affection for them in v7b}
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, {PURPOSE – tells us the purpose of v9b}
in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; {PURPOSE – of v10a}
11
having been filled with the fruit of righteousness { how they will be sincere & blameless}
which comes through Jesus Christ, {Source of “fruit”}
to the glory and praise of God. {Goal/purpose of “fruit”}
MAPPING TIPS:
• First notice that in the examples above, words and phrases were sometimes rearranged to make the flow of thought
easier to follow. In Titus 3:5, the phrase “when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared”
was put after the main clause of the sentence “He saved us” (which appears in v6). The phrase of v5 tells us when the
verb of v6 “saved” occurred and should thus be placed under that main verb.
• Keep your map as neat and spaced out as possible. You can use different fonts or colors to help make your layout
clearer or easier to follow.
• It is a good idea to create your map on a computer as it is easier to manipulate the sentences and make changes
later. You can get the text from an internet site such as www.biblestudytools.net
vv
vv
vv
Write down a quick inventory of the things you’ve thought about in the last two hours.
Reflection
Be honest – have your thoughts been honorable? free from anxiety? pure? etc…

Mark up Phil 4:2-9 & record your key observations & questions in the right-hand box. Then create a
Observe map of this passage either on a computer or on a blank sheet of paper.

2
I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord.
v2
3
Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared
v3
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.

v4
4
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! 5Let your gentle
spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. 6Be anxious for nothing, but in v5
everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be
made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, v6
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
v7
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
v8
any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. 9The
things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these
v9
things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Reflection

1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
1) Using just 4:2-3, what counsel would you give to a fellow believer who is in conflict with another
believer?
Now, using the book of Philippians as a whole, what verses and truths would you share with them to
help bring reconciliation?
2) Why did Paul include v5b, “The Lord is near” or “at hand”? How does it fit in with the first half of v5?
3) Using 4:6-9, describe in your own words how we can find peace regardless of circumstances.
What connection might there be between vv6-9 and v5?

1.
2.
3.
4.
Reflection
“I know not by what methods rare,

But this I know: God answers prayer.
I know not if the blessing sought
Will come in just the guise I thought.
I leave my prayer to Him alone
Whose will is wiser than my own.”
Eliza M. Hickok
Week 10
SKILL: Digging Deeper
Few resources are as helpful to Bible study as a good background article. Look, for example, at the
following background articles which help us better understand Paul’s point in Philippians. The first helps us
understand the significance of his reference to “dogs” in 3:2, and the second helps us see the importance of his
mention of “Caesar’s household” in 4:22.
The contempt and disgust with which the DOG is regarded in the OT [and the NT]
cannot easily be understood by Western people, to whom the dog is a companion and
auxiliary… In many parts of the East the dog is still basically a scavenger. It was useful in
disposing of refuse but was by its very nature unclean and a potential carrier of disease, and
therefore could not be touched without defilement. Hebrew kebe and Greek kyōn are without
doubt the semi-wild dogs which roamed outside the city walls waiting for rubbish or dead bodies
to be thrown over….The ‘dogs’ of Phil. 3:2 are Judaizing intruders who disturb the peace of the
church; the ‘dogs’ who are excluded from the new Jerusalem in Rev. 22:15 are people of
unclean lives, probably an echo of Dt. 23:18, where ‘dog’ seems to be a technical term for a
male temple prostitute.
from The New Bible Dictionary edited by Wood, D. R. W., & Marshall, I. H.
The “HOUSEHOLD OF CAESAR” could refer to anyone in the Roman civil service
directly dependent on Caesar, including all his slaves and freedmen; it always indicated great
prestige. It most likely refers here to the Praetorian Guard (see comment on 1:13); if Paul was in
Rome at this point, anyone who guarded him (Acts 28:16, 30) would naturally be exposed to his
teaching. Even Caesar’s slaves wielded more power and prestige than most well-off free
persons; the Praetorian Guard itself held the prestige of the Roman military’s elite, often
rewarded by Caesar himself. Paul’s greeting would impress his readers: his imprisonment has
indeed advanced the gospel (1:12–13).
from The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament edited by Keener, C. S.
Here’s a list of some great background resources:

The New Bible Dictionary edited by Wood and Marshall [the best, if you must choose]
The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament by Craig Keener
The New Manners and Customs of Bible Times by Ralph Gower
Harper’s Bible Dictionary edited by Paul Achtemeier
vv
vv
vv
Do you daily experience contentment?
Reflection
What else would you need to have in order to be content?

Observe want to map the passage on a computer or on another sheet of paper.

10
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your
v10-11
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
v12-13
circumstances I am. 12I 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
v14-15
13 14
need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. 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 v16-17
gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving
and receiving but you alone; 16for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than
once for my needs. 17Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which v18-19
increases to your account. 18But I have received everything in full and have an
abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you
v20-21
have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. 19And
my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ
Jesus. 20Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
21 v22-23
Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet
you. 22All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household. 23The
grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Reflection

1. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
2. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
3. Q:______________________________________________________________________
A:
1) What is the “secret” Paul has learned? Note that the word “do” comes from the Greek word ischuo
meaning “to have power” (such as in Rev. 12:8; Acts 19:20). Thus, v13 is best translated, “I have
sufficient strength/power for all circumstances through Him who strengthens me.”
2) What principles for true “contentment” can you glean from vv11-13?
3) What principles do you see in vv14-20 about Biblical giving?
4) In light of the context, how should v19 be applied? Does it mean that if we give financially to God, that
He will necessarily give us material riches in this life? If not, how would you prove it?

1.
2.
3.
4.
Reflection
Review your memory verses for the week – Phil 4:19-20. Then write them out below from memory:
“Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow. The same everlasting Father
who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and everyday. Either He will
shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace,
then, put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.”
Frances de Sales
Week 11
PHILIPPIANS
SYNTHESIS
Pray (1) for God’s insight as you attempt to summarize Philippians and (2) that as a result of this
week’s study, you would grow to be more and more like Jesus Christ.
Synthesize – having examined the details of the entire book through observation, interpretation and
application, it is now time to put all the parts back together. This is the process of synthesizing the
book. So what is involved in synthesizing a book?
• Reevaluate your “survey” work that you did at the beginning of the semester. If your
detailed study of the book has changed your views on any part of the survey, modify those
parts. This may include theme, occasion, main ideas, or your paragraph titles.
• Now it’s time to creatively synthesize the book. Your goal is to create something that will
help you to see and remember the overall message, truths, and importance of what you
learned during this study. What you create is totally your choice.
Here are three options to creatively synthesize the book:
1) You could summarize the book in a CHART…
• Divide it into main sections and sub-sections as demonstrated in the chart on the next page.
• Summarize what each section and sub-section communicates.
• Add supporting information for each section such as “Relationship to Previous Section,”
“Key Themes,” and/or “Key Verses.”
* Your goal is to capture the most vital information in a clear, visually appealing chart. Be
creative; every chart should be unique!
2) OR you could write an OUTLINE of Paul’s flow of thought in these chapters…
• Simply arrange the main ideas and supporting ideas of each paragraph in outline form,
similar to the example on the next page for the book of Colossians (excerpt from The Bible
Reader's Companion, Victor Books, 1991). This will give you a quick, visual overview of
the chapters.
* Through writing summary sentences each week, you should have a great start on this task.
3) OR you could go outside the box and CREATE a song, poem, picture or any other creative
device to capture the big ideas of Philippians.
Apply – Finally, write out two application statements from the book as a whole to begin applying to
your life during this coming year.
Example Application from Philippians

Principle: Every aspect of our day-to-day lives should reflect the humble and obedient example of Christ.
Plan of Action: This year I will purposefully attempt to love my family/roommates like Christ loves us. To
this end, I will spend quality time with them and look for one opportunity each week to
serve them around the house.
Accountability Partner: James (979) 555-5365
Sample Outline of Colossians
Introduction (1:1–14)
I. The Supremacy of Christ (1:15–23)
A. Christ Is Over All (1:15–18)
B. Christ Is Truly God (1:19–20)
C. Christ Is the Source of Salvation (1:21–23)
D. “Christ in You” Is the Content of Paul’s Message (1:24–29)
II. The Salvation Won by Christ (2:1–23)
A. Christ As Focus of Faith (2:1–5)
B. Christ As Source of Strength (2:6–7)
C. Substitutes to Avoid (2:8–23)
1. Empty philosophies (2:8–15)
2. Legalism (2:16–17)
3. Angel worship (2:18–19)
4. Asceticism (2:20–23)
III. The Christian Life Described (3:1–4:6)
A. Its Source and Motivation (3:1–4)
B. Its Principles (3:5–4:6)
1. Abandon old sins (3:5–11)
2. Encourage new virtues (3:12–17)
3. Strengthen relationships (3:18–4:1)
4. Pray and witness (4:2–6)
Conclusion: Personal Notes (4:7–18)
Sample Chart of 2 Timothy

Sample Creative Rap of Philippians
“Paul and the Phillies”

by: Matt & Jenn Chalmers ©
A man named Paul once wrote a letter,
To his friends the Phillies so they could live better;
He was joyous and thankful for their participation,
In the gospel of Christ which was his occupation.
Paul’s desire was to see his dear friends grow,
So he wrote a few things he wanted them to know:
“Be of one mind, strive for unity,

Do this by displaying Christ’s humility;
Put aside complaining and surrender your rights,
So you can shine in the world as bright lights;
You have great examples like Tim and Mr. E,
Just like them be all that you can be;
Having confidence in the flesh is nothing but your loss,
So press on toward knowing Christ, for He is our boss;
Remember to keep your focus on things above,
For your Father will transform you with His love!”
Paul has learned the secret of being content,

By trusting in the power that Christ has sent;
He rejoiced and was thankful for the Phillies givin’,
It is profitable for them and it keeps him livin’;
Oh, and by the way, greet Paul’s bros,
Grace to you and Peace out, Yo!
Reflection
Before you start on the synthesis activities on the following page, spend some time prayerfully reflecting on these
questions. In Philippians 3, Paul wrote that his greatest goal in life was to “know” Jesus Christ.
- In what ways have I grown to know and love Jesus Christ more during this study of Philippians?
- What things are holding me back from knowing Christ better?

Your Chart OR Outline OR Creative Synthesis of Philippians
Your Overall Applications from Philippians

Principle:
Plan of Action:
Accountability Partner: ___________________________
Principle:
Plan of Action:
Accountability Partner: ___________________________

APPENDIX
Life and Ministry of Paul pg 49
Sample Observations from Acts 1:8 pg 50
Bonus Observation Skill: Creating Lists pg 51
Advanced Interpretive Problem Solving pg 52
Review of English Grammar!! pg 54
Chronology of the Life and Ministry of Paul

Date Event Letters Written
Summer 35 Paul’s conversion (Acts 9:1-7)
Summer 35-37 Damascus and Arabia (Acts 9:8-25; Gal. 1:16-17)
Summer 37 Jerusalem, first visit (Acts 9:26-29; Gal. 1:18-20)
Autumn 37 Tarsus, Syria-Cilicia (Acts 9:30; Gal. 1:21)
Spring 43 Traveled to Antioch (Acts 11:25-26)
Autumn 47 Relief visit to Jerusalem (Acts 11:30; Gal. 2:1-10)
Autumn 47- In Antioch (Acts 12:25-13:1)
Spring 48
April 48- First missionary journey (Acts 13-14) Galatians (written in Antioch;
Sept. 49 Autumn 49)
Autumn 49 Jerusalem Council, third visit (Acts 15)
Winter 49/50 In Antioch (Acts 12:25-13:1)
April 50-Sept. 52 Second missionary journey (Acts 15:36-18:22) 1&2 Thessalonians (summer 51)
Winter 52/53 In Antioch
Spring 53- Third missionary journey (Acts 18:23-21:16) 1&2 Corinthians (Spring 56;
May 57 Fall 56) Romans (Winter 56/57)
May 57 Meeting with James (Acts 21:13-23)
May 57-Aug. 59 Arrest, trial and imprisonment (Acts 21:26-26)
Aug. 59-Feb. 60 Voyage to Rome (Acts 27:1-28:29)
Feb. 60- First Roman imprisonment (Acts 28:30) Ephesians (Autumn 60)
March 62 Col. & Philemon (Autumn 61)
Philippians (Spring 62)
Autumn 62 1 Timothy
Spring 63- Asia Minor, Spain, Crete, Asia Minor, Colossians (Summer 66)
Autumn 67 Nicopolis, Macedonia, Greece
Autumn 67 Arrested and brought to Rome 2 Timothy (Autumn 67)
Spring 68 Paul’s death
Sept. 2, 70 Destruction of Jerusalem

Sample Observations from Acts 1:8
“…but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses
both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” Acts 1:8
1. The dialogue of verses 7&8 is Christ’s’ response to the apostles’ question of vs. 6: "Lord, is it at this time You are
restoring the kingdom to Israel?"
2. Verses 7&8 both answer the apostles’ question and redirect their focus away from the “kingdom to Israel” and onto
the subject matter of vs. 8.
3. Verse 8 is directly followed by the ascension of Jesus into heaven.
4. These are, therefore, the last words (at least as recorded in Acts) spoken by Jesus to His disciples.
5. Verse 8 starts with “but” drawing a contrast to something that came before.
6. Jesus is speaking.
7. This vs. contains two primary phrases: “you will receive power” and “you shall be My witnesses”.
8. Both main phrases are addressed to “you”
9. The phrases are linked with “and”.
10. The first main phrase is passive in nature – “receive power”.
11. “Will receive” is future tense.
12. The word “power” is a key word in this sentence. Thayer’s translates this word as “strength, ability, or power.”
13. The second main phrase is active in nature – “you shall be My witnesses”.
14. “Shall be” is future tense.
15. An unspecified “power” is what the apostles will receive
16. They will receive it at some future time from when this vs. was spoken.
17. The reception of the power is conditioned upon the Holy Spirit coming “upon” the apostles.
18. The Greek word for “to come upon” is in the aorist participle tense.
19. There is no task, action, or confession that the apostles are called to perform for the HS to come “upon” them.
20. Indeed, from this text, it appears that the apostles are completely passive in regards to the coming of the HS.
21. The Spirit is explicitly identified as “Holy”.
22. They are to be Christ’s witnesses (“my”).
23. Unlike the NASU’s “my witnesses” which seems to stress Christ’s ownership or authority over the apostles, the
NKJV has “you shall be witnesses to me” which seems to stress their message.
24. This quotation includes a geographic list of places and regions: Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, the remotest part of
the earth.
25. The list progresses from places closest to the apostles current home (Jerusalem from vs. 4) to places farthest from
their home.
26. The list also progresses from places of Jewish majority (Jerusalem and Judea) to a place of half-breed Jews
(Samaria) to a place of Gentile majority (the remotest parts of the earth).
27. The flow of the list is confusing given that “both” seems to describe more than 2 list items.
28. Jerusalem was, at this time, the religious capital of Judea and of the Jewish religion and contained the focal point
of Jewish worship, the temple.
29. It would be dangerous for the apostles to witness of Christ in this city.
30. The apostles are to be witnesses in “all” of Judea. This word may also modify “Samaria”, indicating that they are
to witness throughout that entire region as well.
31. They are to go “even” to the remotest part of the earth. The use of the word “even” seems to make the list feel
more exhaustive. Note that the NKJV does not include “even”.
32. The NASB ends with “to the remotest part of the earth” while the NKJV ends with “to the end of the earth.”

Bonus Observation Skill: Creating Lists
We all know people who are fanatical list makers. They create a daily to-do list and love to check
off what they accomplish. Making lists as you observe a passage of scripture is a little different. This skill
involves identifying a key word, subject, person, place or event in the passage and then listing every fact
given about that word.
For example, if you made a list on “God” from 2 Timothy 1, it might look like this:
God
1. made Paul an apostle by His will (v1)
2. gives grace, mercy and peace (v2)
3. is the Father (v2)
4. is thanked and served (v3)
5. gives gifts (v6)
6. doesn’t give spirit of timidity (v7)
7. gives spirit of power, love and sound mind (v7)
8. gives power for suffering (v9)
9. saved us (v9)
10. called us (v9)
As you read this list, what jumps out at you? Perhaps you see that “God gives” is mentioned five
times in this list! What a gracious and loving God we serve. You have discovered one of the characteristics
of God, His generous grace toward men!
What do you do with the insights you gain from making lists?
By categorizing your observations into lists, you will begin to see patterns of truth that you will
want to study further to find their meaning (interpretation). This list on God may lead you to do a word
study on “give” or find all the other references in Paul’s epistles to God’s giving nature. You will begin to
build your theology (your belief system about God) based on what the Holy Spirit has revealed to you
personally in His word!
Also, you will find much that will impact your daily life (application). This list can now be used
for meditation, to praise and worship God, to encourage others and to proclaim the character of God to the
lost.
One word of caution about lists, however. Just because you are able to create a list centered on a
key word, such as “God” in 2 Timothy 1, does not mean that Paul’s main point in the passage is to talk
about that key word. Paul’s emphasis in 2 Timothy 1, in fact, is not to discuss attributes about God, it is to
encourage Timothy to press on in the ministry of the gospel. So make sure that before you create any lists
you complete the initial processes of observation: list themes, create a title, mark up the text, and record
your most significant observations. However, following these initial tasks by creating lists is a great way
to deepen your study of a passage!

Advanced Interpretive Problem Solving
How do you solve those really tough interpretive problems that no word study or mechanical layout
can crack? Let’s use an example from Ephesians. Are the verbs in Ephesians 4:22-24 commands, or are
they simple statements of fact? This grammar question has a major impact on our daily lives! Are we to
apply this passage by (1) daily taking off the “old self” and laboring to “put on” the new self (the case if these
are commands), or (2) daily remembering the motivating reality that we are no longer slaves to our “old self”
but are already clothed in our “new self” (the case if these are statements of fact)? Clearly, this is a crucial
interpretive problem to solve. But how? We can start with the Five Fundamental Tools for Accurate
Interpretation we learned this semester (1.use the context, 2.define words, 3.compare translations, 4.study cross-
references, and 5.wrestle with the text). Yet for really tough interpretive questions, we need a more advanced
method to find an accurate answer. For tough problems, follow this 5-step process:
1) List all the options. Always start by brainstorming – list every possible solution to your question. Be
open-minded and creative, and don’t rush this process. You’ll often find that your third option proves
better than your first. It’s often helpful to work with others during this step so that you can benefit from
different points of view. In our example from Eph 4:22-24, there are only the two options discussed
above. But other difficult problems will have more potential solutions, such as in Eph 4:9. What does
Christ’s descent into “the lower parts of the earth” refer to? Brainstorming yields four options: (1) the
burial of His body in the ground, (2) His spirit descending into Hades between His death and resurrection,
(3) His descent from heaven to earth during His incarnation, (4) some combination of the above options.
2) Gather support for each option. Once you’ve created a list of potential solutions, you need to compile
evidence that supports each option. This evidence could include support you find from (1) the
surrounding verses, (2) the book as a whole, (3) cross references to other books, (4) a word study, (5) a
mechanical layout, (6) support from your overall understanding of Christian theology, or (7) support from
historical/cultural background information on the book. Under each potential solution, simply list
everything you can think of that argues in favor of that option. Sometimes a piece of evidence will
support multiple potential solutions – that’s fine, simply list it under each option it supports. Here’s what
such a list would look like for our question from Ephesians 4:
Option 1: Commands Option 2: Statements of fact
• It works grammatically (indicated • It works grammatically (proven from checking commentaries on Ephesians)
by the fact that NASB translates it • It fits the immediate context if we take vv25-32 as a description of the lifestyle that
this way). should result from believing and applying the facts of vv22-24.
• It fits the immediate context well if • It fits Paul’s consistent style of revealing factual information that serves as the
we take vv25-32 as a practical basis of how we should then live (ex. 5:1-6 – Christ’s love is the basis for our walk
explanation of how to take off the in love).
old & put on the new. • It perfectly matches the closest parallel passages, Rom 6:6 and Col 3:9-10, both in
• It fits the overall structure of Eph overall context (both passages view these as facts about a past event) and theology
where chapters 1-3 focused on (Rom 6:4-7 in particular describes the “old self” as an unregenerate person).
truths and 4-6 on application in life. • It fits the theology of passages such as 2 Cor 5:17 and Gal 3:27 – believers are new
creatures who were clothed with Christ at one point in time and remain so today.
3) Choose your solution. Once you’ve listed all the evidence in favor of each option, it’s time to choose
the winner. But how? Look back at all the evidence and rate what’s most convincing. Typically,
evidence from the immediate context is most powerful, followed closely by evidence from the book as a
whole. Evidence from other books or from Christian theology as a whole does not carry as much weight
unless the solution you’re looking at contradicts a major tenant of Christian doctrine. Since Scripture
never lies and God can’t contradict Himself, you know this solution won’t work (ex. you can’t interpret

Mt 24:36 to say that Jesus is less than God since that would contradict the basic Christian doctrine about
Jesus as well as the clear teaching of John 1:1-18; 20:28; Col 2:9, etc).
4) Decide on certainty. Having chosen what you believe to be the best solution, it’s time to step back and
humbly remember that interpreting the Bible is not like solving math problems. Our human fallibility,
limited 21st century American perspective, and theological biases cause us to often make mistakes in
interpreting the Bible. Therefore, we need to be realistic in determining the certainty of our conclusions.
Does the evidence for the solution you chose clearly beat out the evidence for all other solutions? If so,
you can probably write down that you are 80-90% certain of your choice (I rarely say I am 100% sure
because someone may propose a solution I’ve never thought of that’s even better than the one I chose).
On the other hand, if there are some strong points of evidence against your choice, you may need to write
down only 60-80% certainty. Perhaps there is another potential solution that seems to have just as much
evidence as your chosen solution. If so, humbly write down 50% certainty – you’re really not sure which
way to go and remain open to other people’s thoughts.
5) Check with others. Now that you’ve done your own study of a particular interpretive question, it’s time
to compare your findings with others. This is so important – just as Ephesians 4 clearly teaches us, we
grow in knowledge and godliness as a corporate body, not as individual islands. Sharing our findings
with each other can keep us from individually overlooking other creative options or neglecting key
evidence. It also serves as a check on our personal solutions – I ought to be concerned if everybody else
chose a very different solution than I did (this doesn’t mean I’m wrong; it simply means I ought to look
back over my work carefully). So make sure that you discuss key interpretive problems during your
small group time. Share your own work, but make sure you listen attentively and openly to the work of
your peers, learning all you can from them. You can also check your work against Christian
commentaries such as The Bible Knowledge Commentary by Walvoord and Zuck or The Epistle to the
Philippians: The New International Greek Testament Commentary by O’Brien. Commentaries are
particularly helpful for discovering (1) more potential solutions to a problem and (2) a wider range of
grammatical, historical, and cultural evidence for each solution. Just remember, a commentary is NOT
always right. The scholars who write these commentaries are limited, fallible human beings just like you
and me. In fact, commentaries on the same passage often disagree with each other, meaning it’s a good
idea to compare a couple of commentaries for any given interpretive problem.

Essentials of English Grammar
If you’re like most newcomers to Inductive Bible Study, you may be feeling a little
overwhelmed by the references to grammatical things like participles, pronouns, and clauses.
Most of us haven’t talked about those since junior high English! So here is a quick review of
essential English grammar to help you get the most out of your study.
The way a word is used in a sentence always determines what part of speech it is. There are eight
basic parts of speech. The following is a review of each including examples shown in italics.
prepositional phrase-
describes verb
pronoun verb-future tense
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up [into him]
participial adverb-
phrase-describes [who is the Head], that is, Christ.
pronoun "we" describes verb
dependent clause- proper noun

describes pronoun "him"
- Ephesians 4:15
I. NOUN – a person, place, thing, or idea

A. Nouns are found in five places in a sentence: subject, direct object, indirect object, object of
the preposition, and predicate nominative (meaning noun); nouns are most often used as the
subject.
B. Types
1. Common - A noun can be common, such as preacher, city, leader, purity.
2. Proper - Or a noun can be proper (always capitalized), such as Paul, Ephesus, Head,
Truth.
II. PRONOUN – a word that replaces a noun

A. Since pronouns replace nouns, they can also be found in the same five places in a sentence.
B. Types
1. Personal – Most often used as the subject - I, we, you, he, she, it, they
2. Possessive – Shows ownership – my, our(s), your(s), his, hers, its, their(s)
3. Demonstrative – Used to point out or "demonstrate" an item – this, that, these, those
4. Relative – Connects a clause about a noun to that noun – that, who, whom, which, whose
5. Indefinite – Refers vaguely to persons or things not named – all, few, each, some
III. ADJECTIVES – a word that describes a noun or pronoun

A. An adjective answers one of the following questions about the word it describes: What
kind?, Which one?, How many?, or How much?.
B. In English, adjectives immediately precede the word they describe.
C. Forms
1. Positive – strong or beautiful
2. Comparative – stronger or more beautiful

3. Superlative – strongest or most beautiful
D. Articles – special type of adjective
1. Definite (specific) – the
2. Indefinite (not specific) – a/an
IV. VERB – a word or group of words that shows the action or state of being of
the subject
A. Types
1. Action – run, walk, flee, go, think, pray
2. Helping – am, is, are, was, were, have, has, had, be, being, been, do, did, does, can,
could, will, would, shall, should, may, might, must
3. Linking – seem, feel (as in emotions), believe
B. Tenses
1. Present – currently happening action – He seals, He does seal, He is sealing
2. Past – completed action – He sealed
3. Future – forthcoming action – He will seal
4. Present perfect – action completed at some indefinite past time or continuing into the
present time – He has sealed
5. Past perfect – past action completed before a later past action –He had sealed
6. Future perfect – future action that will be completed before a future time – He will
have sealed
C. Think of verb tenses in relation to this continuum: You are here!
past perfect past present perfect present future perfect future
V. ADVERB – a word that describes a verb, adjective, or another adverb

A. Though adverbs may be in any position in a sentence, they are most often found at the
very beginning of a sentence or in the middle of a verb phrase.
B. An adverb answers one of the following questions about the word it describes: Where?,
When?, Why?, How?, or To What Extent?.
C. Adverbs commonly end in –ly.
D. Little known adverbs – although, because, how, not, never, really, since, so that, today,
tomorrow, until, very, where, when, why, & yesterday
VI. PREPOSITION – A word that shows where a noun or pronoun is in

relation to a noun, pronoun, verb, adverb, or adjective.
A. When any preposition stands alone, it is actually acting as an adverb.
Put on the full armor of God... ("on" answers Where? about "Put")
B. Common prepositions – in, inside around, above, to, with, beyond, behind, at, of, by,
against, into, out, out of, beside, next to, after, & as

C. Prepositional phrase – the preposition and the noun that follows it. The prepositional
phrase can act as an adjective or an adverb and therefore describe a noun or pronoun
OR a verb, adverb, or adjective. As a result, prepositional phrases can answer either an
adjective question or an adverb question about the word they are describing.
D. In English, an adjective prepositional phrase will follow the word it describes. However,
an adverb prepositional phrase might come at the beginning or end of the sentence or in
the middle of the verb phrase.
prepositional phrase
answers "Where?" the belt
is buckled (adv. phrase)
Stand firm, then, with the belt [of truth] buckled [around your waist]...
prepositional phrase
answers "What kind?" of
belt (adj. phrase)
VII. CONJUNCTION – A word that connects words or groups of words

together.
A. Common conjunctions – and, but, nor, for, so, yet, or
B. Conjunctions may connect two words, two phrases, or two clauses.
VIII. INTERJECTION – A word that expresses strong emotion or feeling but is

not grammatically related to the rest of the sentence.
A. Common interjections – Oh! Wow! Yikes! Ouch! Well, My goodness!
B. Interjections are not commonly used in written English though they are used frequently
in spoken English
Groups of words act together in one of two ways: a phrase or a clause. The following is a brief
explanation of the difference.
I. PHRASES – A group of words that never contains both a subject and a

verb. Most phrases are used as adjectives or adverbs.
A. Prepositional phrases – previously discussed
B. Participial phrase – contains a participle and is used as an adjective.
1. Participle - a present or past tense verb ending in –ing, -ed, -d, -t, or –n.
2. A participle will always begin the phrase.
3. A participle is often separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma.
Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to

sensuality... - Eph. 4:19
describes pronoun "they"
...and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true

righteousness and holiness.
-Eph. 4:24 describes common noun "self"

C. Gerund phrase – contains a gerund and is used as a noun
1. Gerund – always a present tense verb ending in –ing

2. A gerund will always begin the phrase.
3. A gerund will never be separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma.
Singing songs to God gives me joy. ("Singing" is the gerund acting as the subject
of the sentence.)
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful
for building others up... ("building," a gerund, is the object of the preposition "for")
D. Infinitive phrase – contains an infinitive and is used as a noun, adjective, or adverb

1. Infinitive – “to” plus a verb such as to run, to walk, to flee, to pray
2. Infinitives should not be confused with prepositional phrases which are “to” plus a
noun.
3. An infinitive will always begin the phrase.
4. An infinitive may or may not be separated by a comma from the rest of the sentence.
Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you... ("to win" is the
infinitive acting as an adverb)
II. CLAUSES – A group of words that always has a subject and a verb.
Clauses are either independent or dependent (upon an indep. clause)
A. Independent - Otherwise known as a complete sentence, these clauses can stand
completely on their own grammatically.
B. Dependent – Otherwise known as a sentence fragment, these clauses must be partnered
with an independent clause in order to make a complete sentence. Often these clauses
will begin with words such as who, whom, that, if, in order that, so that, until, as,
because, since, why, & where
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God,

[with whom {you} were sealed for the day of redemption]
subject of dependent independent clause
dependent clause clause
verb of dependent clause
[As a prisoner for the Lord], then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling
(that) {you} have received. independent clause
compound prepositional
phrases subject of dependent
clause
understood relative
pronoun – not in the verb of dependent clause
English translation (NIV)

Raising up Next-Generation Leaders…
Emerging Influencing Coaching
Leader Leader Leader
• Small group participant • Member of GBC • Coaches leaders of
• Knows essential doctrine • Leads a small group small groups
and Biblical content • Able to articulate doctrine and • Able to help others
• Understands and shares Biblical content identify their spiritual
the gospel • Able to establish a new believer in gifts
• Knows own spiritual gifts the faith • Able to defend doctrine
• Understands Biblical • Practices spiritual gifts in service
worldview of others
• Leadership University participant
Train all as Leaders*
Always Growing in:
• Spiritual and personal disciplines (reading, studying, memorizing, and
applying the Word, prayer, stewardship, relational skills…)
• Great Commandment love for God and others
• Christ-like character (love, humility, integrity, self-discipline, endurance…)
…To Reach our World for Christ
* Training obje
objectives
ctives listed above are not meant to be exhaustive.

Philippians Fall 2005 - IBS

Încărcat de

Informații document

Descriere originală:

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Philippians Fall 2005 - IBS

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

“ I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…”

Back Cover Graphic: Grace Bible Church Leadership Pathway

Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®,

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 2

Welcome to the book of Philippians!

2. Observation 3. Interpretation 4. Application

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 3

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 4

The Human Author and Date. Most scholars agree Philippi

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 5

Date (WHEN was it written?):

Author (WHO wrote it?):

Character qualities, etc.

Current location and situation

Relationship with recipients

Main Ideas and Repeated Themes (WHAT really stands out?):

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 6

SKILL: Observe Like a Pro

Here’s an example of this 7-step process for Philippians 1:9-10: Why?

Which things? When?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 7

my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of

long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.

the glory and praise of God. v11

What observation affected you most? Why?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 8

2) What truths do we learn from Paul’s prayer in vv9-11?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 9

WHY did Paul…

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 11

than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment.

proclaimed; and in this I rejoice.

What observation affected you most? Why?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 12

1) What motivated Paul to write Phil 1:12-18a?

3) How is God’s sovereignty and wisdom revealed in vv12-18?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 13

SKILL: Apply Truth to Your Life

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 15

Key Observations & Questions:

your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to

now hear to be in me.

What observation affected you most? Why?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 16

How might we apply and receive encouragement from verse 19?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 17

“How shalt thou bear the cross that now

SKILL: See the Big Picture

Summary Sentence for Phil 1:12-18a…

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 19

Key Observations & Questions:

compassion, 2make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining

What observation affected you most? Why?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 20

1) How does 2:1-4 relate to 1:27-30?

What is the relationship between humility and unity?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 21

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 23

12 Key Observations & Questions:

What observation affected you most? Why?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 24

What is Paul telling us in v13? How is this verse a source of hope?

© Grace Bible Church, Fall 2005 pg 25