[Practical Application Review – Week 36]
Greetings,
We continue our journey of exploring all 260 chapters of the New Testament, five (5) chapters each week. Let us finish Philippians and start Colossians.
Schedule – Week 36:
Please read and/or listen to Philippians 2, 3, 4 and Colossians 1, 2
Even though reading and listening to the Bible being read is valuable, our primary goal is learning to live the Bible (to the best of our ability).
Consider our Practical Application Review process…
For “every” chapter:
Step 1: Select a passage of interest
Step 2: Identify area of teaching
Step 3: Consider a practical application
Now let us explore an example (of our three-step process) for each of these five chapters…
Text #1: Philippians 2
Passage: (vv. 13-16)
Teaching: God inspired His people to do the good things which they desire. Be sincere and blameless in the midst of a crooked and perverse world. Shine as lights.
Application: I feel a great need for the lost in this world to see good in action. Plus, we must live a true, sincere Christian life without blame.
Text #2: Philippians 3
Passage: (vv. 17-21)
Teaching: Be followers of me and observe others who walk the same path. Then be examples to other people. Let our labors be in heavenly things, looking for our Lord Jesus.
Application: Since I was very young, many men have served as mentors to me. Each one taught me something about the Christian faith in action. I likewise choose to share with others.
Text #3: Philippians 4
Passage: (vv. 8-9)
Teaching: Think about things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report. And do those things which you have learned, received, heard and seen in me.
Application: Mindset is of utmost importance. In a world full of distractions, we must take time to refocus. Plus, following examples of others who are doing great things.
Text #4: Colossians 1
Passage: (vv. 9-11)
Teaching: We do not cease to pray for you … to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. Live a righteous life, having good works and fruit. And to be strengthened with all might.
Application: I must never cease to pray for my fellow brothers and sisters. May each of us live a glorious life. May we produce works and fruit that glorifies our Heavenly Father.
Text #5: Colossians 2
Passage: (v. 8)
Teaching: Beware lest a person mislead you away from our Lord Jesus Christ. Either by philosophy, vain deceit, human teaching or worldly principles.
Application: I wish to always keep my focus on Jesus. The Bible and the Holy Spirit continue to guide me. Other Christian believers may offer inspiration and encouragement.
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo