Going Deeper in “A Life Worth Living”
Read the following slowly a few times:
Philippians 1:21–30; Galatians 2:20, Romans 14:7–9
Going Deeper Questions:
1. Paul seems genuinely torn between departing to be with Christ and remaining to serve the church. What does this tell us about Paul’s understanding of death and what happens to a believer after death?
2. Notice Paul's movement from “what is better for me” to “what is better for you” in verses 23–25. What does that tell us about Paul's understanding of Christian maturity?
3. In verse 25, Why do you think Paul connects spiritual growth and joy? Is joy primarily an emotion for Paul, or something deeper?
4. Philippi was a Roman colony, and its citizens were proud of their Roman citizenship. How might Paul's language in Vs 27 have sounded to Christians living there?
5. Paul tells them to stand together with “one spirit and one purpose” and to fight together for the faith. Why is unity so important to Paul? Look ahead to Phil 2:1–4. What kind of unity does he have in mind?
6. In verse 28, Paul tells the Philippians not to be intimidated by their opponents. What kinds of opposition might the early Christians have faced? What does Paul want their courage to demonstrate?
7. Verse 29 may be the most difficult statement in the passage: “You have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.” Why would Paul call suffering for Christ a privilege? What does this not mean about suffering?
8. Why are we tempted to define a worthwhile life by comfort, achievement, possessions, approval, or security rather than fruitfulness for Christ?
This Week's Challenge
1. Paul could say, “For to me, living means living for Christ.” If you completed the sentence “For me, to live is _____,” what would your daily life suggest belongs in the blank?
2. Paul chooses what benefits others over what would benefit himself. Where might Christ be asking you to stay, serve, sacrifice, or persevere because someone else needs what you can give?