Look Up to Heaven, Philippians 3:1-21

I posted my slides for the lesson titled, "Look Up to Heaven," based on Philippians 3:1-21. I added a few slide notes, but be sure to view the slides in "Slide Show" mode.

Yeah! Gary Payne also uploaded his slides, which I appreciate.

May God bless each of you as you prepare to teach His Word.

Light Up the World, Philippians 2:12-30

I thought Gary Payne did a good job on his lesson slides last week. Ever faithful, he also posted his slides for this week's lesson, "Light Up the World," which is based on Philippians 2:12-30. Thanks Gary!

Co-teacher Randy Stewart also posted his slides for the lesson. Much appreciated Randy!

Live up to the Gospel, Philippians 1:27-2:11

I posted my slides for the lesson titled, "Live up to the Gospel," based on Philippians 1:27-2:11. I added a few slide notes to facilitate understanding of some of the talking points. Be sure and view the slides in "Slide Show" mode.

As a big help, Gary Payne also uploaded his slides. Thanks Gary for your faithfulness.

Live up to the Gospel, Philippians 2:5-8

For Step 3 of the lesson titled, “Live up to the Gospel” (based on Philippians 2:5-8), I want to show a series of pictures of teams and ask my class to name the various attitudes they project. The example series of pictures I have in mind includes: a football team coming onto the playing field, a rescue squad in action, an emergency medical team hovering around a patient on a gurney, a group of Christians on mission, a local church, a bible study group, and a Christian couple.

Showing this picture sequence and the associated discussion should help clarify what Paul referred to by attitude (or thinking). Next, Paul answers the question of how to bring about such a mind-set as that of Christ. Paul wants Christians to avoid pride and not be mindful of self-importance for personal advantage. Rather they should be humble, even willing to die to selfishness desires, which can be pictured by a cross. There was a "why" behind Christ's sacrificial death. He had a purpose to save that which was lost. Likewise, a Christian who has the mind of Christ will have a purpose to serve others.

Live up to the Gospel, Philippians 1:27-2:11

To illustrate the central idea of Step 2 in Sunday’s lesson, “Live up to the Gospel” ( based on Philippians 2:1-4), I plan to use pictures of the Shanghai Acrobats we saw on a visit to China in 2008.

The dancers demonstrated individual control and strength as they worked together in unison to entertain the audience. Their individual moves seemed to always be in synch, although each one performed a different part. No acrobat tried to standout. Instead they all worked toward the same goal and each number was just breathtaking to watch. 

Paul exhorted Christians to work together in such unity with the same mindset for Christ.

Live up to the Gospel, Philippians 1:27-2:11

In preparing to teach Sunday’s lesson, “Live up to the Gospel”, based on Philippians 1:27-2:11, I thought of using a rope pull, or “tug of war” contest to illustrate verses 1:27-30. Members of a local church team together on one end of a rope against the church’s adversaries, who are gathered on the other end. Christian church members conduct their lives according to the gospel in a constant struggle to avoid being pulled into a mud hole of disobedience that lies between the two sides. Christians must not be afraid of the strength of their opponents. At times during the contest they may suffer collectively or individually for the sake of Christ. Through the strength of their unity and mutual encouragement, they stand firm.

Lift Up The Gospel, Philippians 1:12-26

Gary Payne posted his slides for Sunday's lesson, "Lift Up The Gospel," based on Philippians 1:12-26.

Co-teacher Randy Stewart also posted his slides. Thanks guys!

Link Up With Others, Philippians 1:1-11

Gary Payne posted his slides for Sunday's lesson, "Link Up With Others," based on Philippians 1:1-11.

Thanks Gary!