Lesson 220: Philippians 1:21
The Blueprint — The Verse
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More writes Philippians from prison, partnering with a church he loves in a Roman colony. His life calculus centers on Christ whether in ministry or martyrdom.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More discusses his struggle between departing to be with Christ or remaining for the church's progress. He summarizes his outlook: living means Christ; dying is gain.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will in no way be disappointed, but with all boldness, as always, now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life, or by death.
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But if I live on in the flesh, this will bring fruit from my work; yet I don’t know what I will choose.
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Discussion
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What would it mean for you to say 'to live is Christ'?
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Why might PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More call death 'gain' without despising life?
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How does eternal perspective change daily choices?
Places — Map this passage
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