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Philippians, Chapter One, Lesson Three

ENCOURAGING THE BRETHREN   Philippians 1:12-18             Print this Bible Study

STIMULATE

** If we were to follow the pattern set for us last week by the apostle Paul when he was "Longing for the Brethren", what would we be faithful to do when we are out of each other's company?

We would be praying for each other!

** What were the four elements of Paul's prayer on behalf of his beloved Philippians?

1. He prayed for their love to abound.
2. He prayed for them to gain more "real knowledge and all discernment".
3. He prayed for ability to test what is excellent.
4. He prayed for their spiritual integrity.

** Did you find yourself to be more prayerfully aware of your brothers and sisters in the body of Christ this past week?

The Lord has repeatedly brought me back to the real spiritual needs of those in the body for whom He has given me a great love.

MOTIVATE

** Having seen Paul being "Thankful for the Brethren" and "Longing for the Brethren", we now move into a more proactive posture for the apostle. He now sets his course for the high calling of "Encouraging the Brethren". As we enter into today's study, lets consider two questions.

1) Is God limited by our circumstances?
2) Are we limited by our circumstances?

Please open your Bibles to Philippians 1:12-18 as we observe the apostle in his quest to be "Encouraging the Brethren" by using the circumstances of his life, no matter how severe those circumstances might be.

Read passage (V.12-14) (V.15-18)

Opening Prayer

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