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As in Books 7 and 8, first look up the facts about the epistle, getting the background of the book before you analyze it chapter by chapter. Begin by looking up the following information, using the notes in your Bible or a Bible handbook.
Writer of Philippians
Approximate date he wrote the letter
Written before or after I Thessalonians?
To whom written?
Where was Philippi in relation to Thessalonica?
When was the church founded?
THE CHURCH AT PHILIPPI
The account of the beginning of the church at Philippi is found in Acts 16:9-40. Read this carefully and answer the following:
How is the city of Philippi described? (verse 12)
Where did Paul first speak to people about the Lord? (verse 13)
Who was the first to respond to his message?
What were Paul and Silas accused of? (verses 20, 21)
How were they punished for this supposed crime?
In your own words describe their reaction to their imprisonment.
What did the jailor urgently want to know?
What answer was he given?
What did the officials finally ask Paul and Silas to do?
WHY PAUL WROTE
Now read through Philippians several times—at least once at one sitting. As you read, decide what you consider to be the main purpose or theme of the letter and list it below. Then go through more slowly, listing the verses which touch on the main theme. State briefly what each of these passages says in connection with the theme. If you list two or three themes, trace them one at a time through the whole letter.
Purpose or theme of the letter
Theme Verses | Key Thought
List any other important topics in Philippians that are not covered in the theme or themes you have chosen.
Now that you have finished your own survey study, you may want to check a reference book for additional thoughts on the background and theme of Philippians.
PERSONAL PROFIT
Review the theme verses you have listed on the four chapters of Philippians and pray over possible applications. Select one you feel is most needed in your life now. Write a short paragraph stating the way the truth of the verse applies to your life, and what steps you can take toward putting it into practice.
"Here is one of the greatest secrets of prevailing prayer: Study the Word to find God's will as revealed in the promises; then simply take these promises and spread them out before God in prayer with the unwavering expectation that He will do what He has promised in His Word."
—R. A. Torrey