To Live is Christ: Lesson 3
This Week's Bible Study: Philippians 1:19-30
As we continue our study of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, we encounter a passage that challenges our understanding of life, death, and the very essence of our faith. In Philippians 1:19-30, the Apostle Paul, writing from imprisonment, offers us an important perspective on what it means to live for Christ.
Paul begins by expressing his confidence that his present circumstances will turn out for his deliverance. This assurance stems from two sources: the prayers of the Philippians and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Here, we see a beautiful interplay between human intercession and divine intervention. As Richard Baxter once noted, “Prayer must carry on our work as much as preaching; he preacheth not heartily to his people that will not pray for them.” How often do we underestimate the power of our prayers for one another?
The apostle’s unwavering commitment to glorifying Christ, whether through life or death, is nothing short of inspiring. His declaration, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (v. 21), encapsulates the essence of a life fully surrendered to the Savior. This reminds me of John Donne’s sonnet, “Death, be not proud,” where he proclaims, “One short sleep past, we wake eternally, And death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die.” Paul’s perspective transforms our understanding of both life and death, viewing them through the lens of our relationship with Christ.
As we ponder Paul’s dilemma between his desire to depart and be with Christ and his commitment to continue his earthly ministry, we’re confronted with our own priorities. Do we share Paul’s longing for Christ’s presence, or are we too attached to our earthly existence? C.S. Lewis, in The Weight of Glory, reminds us, “It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak.” Perhaps we need to realign our desires with those of the apostle.
Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians to live lives worthy of the gospel is a clarion call to all believers. He emphasizes unity, courage in the face of opposition, and a willingness to suffer for Christ. This call to steadfastness echoes the words often attributed to John Wesley, “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”
The apostle’s perspective on suffering as a gift granted to believers for Christ’s sake challenges our modern sensibilities. Yet, as we reflect on church history and the testimonies of so many martyrs and persecuted Christians, we’re reminded that suffering for Christ has always been part of the Christian journey.
In closing, let’s take to heart Paul’s example of unwavering faith, his passion for the gospel, and his commitment to the body of Christ. May we, like Paul, learn to see our lives through the lens of eternity, valuing Christ above all else.
Key Principles
1. Prayer and the Spirit’s help are essential for Christian perseverance. Our prayers for one another have real power, working in tandem with the Holy Spirit to sustain and deliver us in times of trial.
2. A life centered on Christ transforms our perspective on both living and dying. When we can genuinely say, “to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” we find freedom from fear and a deep sense of purpose.
3. Unity, courage, and willingness to suffer are hallmarks of a life worthy of the gospel. As we stand firm in one spirit, striving side by side for the faith, we bear witness to the transforming power of Christ.
Bible Study Questions
1. In Philippians 1:19, Paul mentions two sources of his deliverance. How do these two elements work together in the life of a believer? (Consider also Romans 8:26-27)
2. Examine Philippians 1:20. What does Paul mean by not being ashamed? How does this relate to Jesus’ words in Mark 8:38?
3. Reflect on the statement “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). How would you explain this paradox to a new believer?
4. In Philippians 1:22-24, Paul wrestles with his desire to depart and be with Christ versus remaining in the flesh. How does this tension relate to our own Christian walk?
5. What does Paul mean by “manner of life” in Philippians 1:27? How does this connect with Ephesians 4:1?
6. Philippians 1:27-28 emphasizes unity and courage. How do these qualities serve as a sign to opponents? (Consider also Acts 4:13)
7. In Philippians 1:29, suffering for Christ is presented as a gift. How does this perspective differ from common worldly attitudes toward suffering?
8. Examine Philippians 1:30. How does shared suffering create a bond between believers? (See also 2 Corinthians 1:6-7)
9. Throughout this passage, Paul expresses joy despite his circumstances. How does this exemplify the fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23?
10. Consider Philippians 1:25-26. How does Paul’s focus on the progress and joy of others’ faith demonstrate Christ-like servant leadership?
Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection
1. How does your perspective on life and death compare to Paul’s? What would need to change for you to fully embrace the mindset of “to live is Christ, and to die is gain?”
2. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition because of your faith. How did you respond? How might Paul’s words in this passage encourage you to respond differently in the future?
3. In what ways do you see the church today standing firm in one spirit? Where do you see room for improvement in unity among believers?
4. How do you typically view suffering in your life? How might your perspective change if you truly saw it as a gift granted to you on behalf of Christ?
5. Paul was torn between his desire to be with Christ and his commitment to minister to others. How do you balance your spiritual longings with your earthly responsibilities?
6. Consider your prayer life. How often do you pray for other believers’ deliverance and spiritual growth? How might increasing such prayers impact your church?
7. What does it mean to you personally to live a life “worthy of the gospel of Christ?” What areas of your life might need adjustment to align more closely with this calling?
8. Reflect on the courage Paul displayed in his commitment to Christ. Where in your life do you need to exercise similar courage in your faith?
9. How does the knowledge that other believers are striving alongside you for the faith of the gospel encourage you in your own walk?
10. In what ways can you make your life more Christ-centered, so that you too can say, “For to me to live is Christ?”
Action Steps
1. Set aside 15 minutes each day this week to pray specifically for fellow believers who are facing trials or persecution. Keep a prayer journal to record your prayers and any answers you observe.
2. Identify one area of your life where you struggle to put Christ first. Create a concrete plan to reorient that area of your life towards Christ, such as dedicating your work to God each morning or practicing contentment with your possessions.
3. Reach out to a fellow believer who may be experiencing hardship or opposition because of their faith. Offer encouragement, share this passage from Philippians, and if possible, make plans to meet in person for prayer and mutual support.
Thank you for joining me in this study of Philippians 1:19-30. I pray that these words have encouraged you and deepened your understanding of what it means to live for Christ. If you’ve found this devotional helpful, please consider sharing it with others who might benefit. Your support in spreading these messages and encouraging others to subscribe is greatly appreciated. May the Lord bless you and keep you as you strive to live a life worthy of the gospel.