Philippians 3:2-3

2Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. 3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.


~ There were those at the time who taught circumcision was necessary for salvation. How does this go against the gospel of Christ?
~ In what ways might you be trying to please God with your own efforts and taking credit for Christ work?

Philippians 3:1

No Confidence in the Flesh

1 Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.


~ What do you think Paul meant by "rejoice in the Lord"?
~ What is your response when hearing a message you've already been taught on before? Have you considered God might be reminding you in order to prepare you?

Philippians 2:25-30

25 But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. 26 For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. 27 Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. 28 Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.



~ What examples do you find in this passage of love and unity among believers? How do the parties involved show selfless affection towards each other?
~ Consider: How far are you willing to go for the work of Christ? What example has been set for you in this passage? What things might you need to surrender to God in order to follow this example?

Philippians 2:19-24

Timothy and Epaphroditus

19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24 And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.


~ Whom has God sent to you recently that has shown genuine concern for your welfare? How might you praise Him for this person today?
~ How might you be looking out for your own interest rather than Christ? Will you pray today that He will raise up a devotion in you to His purposes rather than your own?

Philippians 2:17-18

17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18 So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.


~ How has your faith in Christ led you to serve or sacrifice? How has your faith grown through your experience?
~ What is your attitude toward the areas you are called to serve or sacrifice this week? Are you approaching them as a privilege or a burden?