Memory Verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6, NRSVue).

INTRO: Paul has repeated admonished believers in Philippi not to be anxious. Despite Paul’s imprisonment and pending court hearing, despite the difficulties those followers of Jesus may be facing where they live, Paul strongly encourages them not to be anxious in Phil. 4:6 which is this week’s memory verse. Memory Verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6, NRSVue).

Q: Why would Paul encourage the Philippians believers not to be “anxious?” What in their lives might cause them to be worried or concerned? What is his antidote for anxiety?

Q: How is Philippians 4:6 instructive about how we come to God in prayer? Why did Jesus urge his disciples and followers to follow his example of daily, private prayer before God the Father where we can make our requests and offer thanksgiving to God?

Q: Why does Paul emphasize our standing a “citizens of heaven” when we accept the salvation Jesus offers us? As citizens of heaven on earth in the Kingdom of God how should we relate to both our privileges and our responsibilities? What would that look like for a believer in today’s world?

Q: Interestingly, near the conclusion of his letter, Paul encourages the Philippian believers to “meditate” (or “think” or “reflect on”) certain things. What things does he mention? How would reflecting or meditating deeply on each of these be helpful in our spiritual development?

CLOSING SIDEBAR:

“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
— Philippians 3:20 (NKJV)

“Paul’s claim that ‘our citizenship is in heaven’ does not mean an escape from earthly responsibilities. It means that believers live on earth under the rule and values of another kingdom. Heaven determines how life is lived here and now. Allegiance to Christ reshapes social relationships, priorities, and communal life.”
— Scot McKnight, The Story of God Bible Commentary: Philippians

Paul reminds believers that their primary allegiance is to God’s kingdom. This heavenly identity reshapes how believers live, make choices, and relate to one another on earth. Unity grows as the church learns to live out heavenly values together in the midst of everyday responsibilities.

NEXT WEEK, we’ll look at another theme emphasized by Paul, “The Preeminence of Christ.” My thanks to Naomi Cueto and Faith Montes, our program engineers, and to all of you for listening in. Until next time, for the “Good Word,” I’m Phil Muthersbaugh.