Lesson 220: Philippians 1:21
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
Paul 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
Paul 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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Philippians 1:20
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.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (Philippians 1:20) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Philippians 1:22
But if I live on in the flesh, this will bring fruit from my work; yet I don’t know what I will choose.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (Philippians 1:22) to continue the passage.
Discussion
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What would it mean for you to say 'to live is Christ'?
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Why might Paul call death 'gain' without despising life?
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How does eternal perspective change daily choices?
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