Philippians 1:1–2 | Resources
Discussion Questions
Who is Paul? What do we know about him?
Summarize the roles of overseers and deacons. Why are these roles
necessary? Why are these roles blessings to the Church?
Why is it an honor to be considered a servant of Jesus Christ, not an insult?
What is grace? What does this look like in our relationship with God and with others?
What is peace? What does this look like in our relationship with God and with others?
Memory Verse
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:2 (CSB)
Devotional
Although a mere two verses, this introduction to the letter to the church at Philippi contains rich truths concerning our identity in Christ, the corporate unity of the church body, and the wonderful blessings that attend every believer. In the same way Paul and Timothy were servants of Christ Jesus, we too are to live a life of service to Christ and His body. Christ Himself set an example for us as He came in the form of a foot-washing servant and suffered on our account in perfect obedience to the Father.
Paul continues by addressing the saints, a reminder that each one of us, as Christians, are holy ones who have been redeemed by the blood of our Savior and called out of this world for the purpose of glorifying His name. We are then told of the beautiful and undeserving grace of God that is active in our lives. Because of this saving grace, we have been adopted into His family and have eternal peace with our God. This is the reality that comforts Paul as he sits in prison while writing to the church in Philippi. He trusts that these truths remain, regardless of the grim circumstances he finds himself in. Let us also remember these incredible truths as we live lives in service to Christ and His body!