Daily Readings (Page 279)

Exaltation followed humiliation. “Jesus Christ is Lord” was an early Christian creed or confession used in connection with baptism. What does it mean to call Jesus “Lord” today?

To what lengths was Christ’s humiliation expressed?  What did it cost Him? What would costly servanthood mean to you today?

What was Christ’s attitude in terms of his relationship with God, and in his relationship with mankind? In which areas of your life are you most tempted to seek honour and selfish ambition?

How can you tell if someone has humility or whether they are just putting on an act? How does Paul define humility here? Notice the four “ifs” which denote blessings in Christ, followed by “then” which indicates responsibilities. Are these qualities present in our church?

Why are these attitudes or actions important especially during times of suffering or persecution?

What does it mean to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel (v27-30)?

Paul is a very “other-centred” pastor – he anticipates continuing “with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith”. What further advice does he give to the Philippians about faithfulness whether he is with them or not? (1:27-28a)

Philippians 1:19-24 reveal a tension in Paul’s thinking about living and dying. What are the two options and what are the implications of each option? Are you similarly inclined?

Paul refers to two groups — compare the motives of each. How can we discern a Church’s/ Christian organisation’s motivation today?

How might Paul’s imprisonment make other believers speak more boldly? Do you find it easy to “speak the word of God .. fearlessly? What can help you to be a more courageous witness for Christ today? (See Lk 12:11f).