readytolearn

Q1. (1:12-14) From the standpoint of witness to others, you are much more credible when you are undergoing personal struggles, stress, and problems. Why is this so? All to the Glory of God. When we are going through struggles of all kind, we cry out to God for HELP! and we are strengthened by the power of Christ, thus, real strength comes through weaknesses. We know that these trials and tribulations are for the name of Christ, we become “more than conquerors”, and Christ’s power in us becomes a testimony we can tell others with joy, as we do it unto God. Why was Paul's witness so powerful? Paul’s witness was so powerful because first of all, all the guards knew that Paul was in prison because of his testimony for Christ and not for any crime, he was full of the Holy Ghost, courageous, bold, and faithful in his service to God. We might be tempted to complain about our difficult situation but not Paul. He knew that it wasn't about him, but about Christ and his kingdom. And so he sees progress rather than difficulties. What personal struggle are you going through that could enhance your testimony if you handled it right? Multiple Health problems, aging issues, and medical issues with my granddaughter, who has autism (low functioning). She was recently hospitalized for renal failure. I feel helpless and sometimes frustrated, in her situation, as she cannot communicate when she is in pain. I am with her 24-7 so I get so-o-o tired sometimes but still holding on.

Why does Paul ask God to give the Philippian Christians discernment? I think because as babes in Christ, their faith would be tried, and they needed to know (discern) between good and bad, right and wrong, and the difference between what was vital/necessary and unimportant. What will be the result of discernment in their lives? Love and Unity among the Philippian believers. To show love to each other and to unbelievers. To be pure and blameless when Christ returns and to be filled with the fruit of Christ’s righteousness. How does selfishness cloud discernment? Selfishness is being concerned, sometimes excessively or exclusively, for oneself or one's own advantage, pleasure, or welfare, regardless of others. How is the good the enemy of the best in our lives? In life, there are GOOD and BEST choices. We settle for a GOOD choice, which is good, but is it the BEST GOOD choice? We settle for “the GOOD” and not explore further to the “BEST”. Therefore GOOD has become the enemy of the BEST. Prayer: Lord you have placed the desire to learn and know your Word in me. You will give me the strength to complete this study. Thank you Jesus.

What does Paul expect God to do for the Philippian Church? Paul knew of the sufferings for the name of Christ, he knew of the Grace of God, and he also knew that this new church, filled with abounding love, would need faith, to endure and the Word of God says that Faith . . . cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God . Paul planted a seed, the letters Paul wrote would water that seed, BUT it would be God that gave the increase. Why does he expect God to do this? Paul knew that God had already begun the good work when Jesus came and paid the penalty for Sin, and also that Jesus had sent the Holy Spirit to dwell in us to also complete the good work God had begun. Because of Paul's miraculous conversion, the experiencing of God's Love, Grace, Mercy, and Deliverance, he knew that there was nothing too hard for God. What is the basis for Paul's confidence? God's love, grace, mercy, deliverance, and faithfulness On what basis can we expect God to do this for us? We, just like the Philippian church, will also have to go through the process of Christian growth until we behold Jesus face to face. God will help us grow in Grace until He has completed His work. There will be times when we feel unfinished, incomplete, or distressed by our shortcomings, we have to remember God's promises and provisions, and also show much love to one another and encourage one another.

When we become diligent financial partners, we will receive the same reward (supporting God’s work and meeting the needs of people) in their ministry of preaching the gospel, and will also share in the eternal reward of that ministry. We are making an investment in our eternal future and “laying up treasures in Heaven” (Matthew 6:20); We will experience God’s faithfulness in providing for our material needs. We can be in prayer continuously, send men and women to help, collect and send supplies, clothes, send letters (thank-you) or greeting cards of encouragement. I am sure that there are many many more ways to support. Let’s pray and ask God what else is needed.

I believe the basic idea of "slave" is being consecrated TO God for service. I believe the basic idea of "saints" is being consecrated BY God for service

Hello. I am from the USA. I live in the State of Virginia. I am desiring to complete this bible study as it will be my first time.