AIM Commentary
Ancient Lens
What can we learn from the historical context?
Philippian Joy During Division and Persecution
For an in-depth description of the context of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, see last week’s guide, “Discerning What’s Best.” This week will touch on some of the same basic themes, but will consider them in conjunction with two famous phrases from Paul’s writings – “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice!” and “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.”
This passage comes right after Paul admonished the Philippians about their quarrel with Euodia and Syntyche (4:2-3). No one knows what these two women were fighting about. However, it was significant enough for Paul to have…
Discussion Questions
Why is it important to Paul that the Philippians rejoice in the face of the quarrel between Euodia and Syntyche? Why would rejoicing ("exuberant celebration") help the community?
What do you, individually, and your church community have to rejoice about?
Is there a time where you believe you have experienced a peace from God that surpassed understanding? When? What was it like?
What are the top things in your life that you are anxious about? What are some things that you are waiting…
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