Word Studies: Philippians

Class: Philippians

Week #4: February 20-24
Professor: Mr. Ric Garland


Assignments: Read the book of Philippians four times by the morning of the exam.


Ric Garland is the Vice President of Word of Life Local Church Ministries. He has served with WOL for thirty years; twenty-five of those years have been spent with Local Church Ministries and five years as the Vice President of the Word of Life Bible Institute. He is passionate and purposed in helping others to live biblically-principled lives. His ministry includes speaking and teaching around the world, discipling, leading, and developing. Ric is married to Ellen, his partner in ministry and the love of his life. He has three amazing children, Nicole, Eric and Shannon.

In this epistle to the church in Philippi, one can easily discover Paul's joy, love and passion in ministry. His joy in all situations. His love for the church. His passion for Christ.



Awaiting trial, Paul writes this letter from prison in Rome. Paul writes about joy and contentment while chained to a soldier night and day. His own example of joy in suffering speaks volumes without even writing one word. But Paul knew it was necessary to communicate these truths through this letter. His purpose in writing was not only to teach the church about joy, but he also wanted to thank them for labouring with him in the work of the gospel. The generosity of the Philippians displayed their willingness to give whatever was needed for ministry. Paul's gratitude flows throughout the letter and his love spills from its pages. Lastly, Paul, as in all his epistles, puts forth the attitude that each believer should have. Through word and deed, Paul teaches passion for the Saviour.

"I love how Philipians 2 shows Christ's servanthood.

It reminds me how much He has done for me,

which displays what I need to be doing for others,

so ultimately He can receive the honor and glory."

- Sarah, Alberta

Sacrifice becomes easy when the church's focus is eternal rather than temporal. Paul says that Christ needs to be our everything. The things of this world become nothing in light of Jesus and what He has done for each person. Two men, Epaphroditus and Timothy, are given as examples of self-sacrificing and Christ-centered lives. If only each believer gave up self and sought Christ, the world would be radically changed for glory of God and it starts with you.

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:"- Philippians 1:16


BW