Provided by William Earnhardt, for Sabbath School Class on January 31 2026.
Photo by Jeremy Thomas on Unsplash
Central Theme: The light and power of heaven are available to all of us who have surrendered our lives to Jesus. But too often, either we expect God to do it all or our own ideas and plans get in the way. That’s why Paul’s words to the Philippians are so relevant today.
A. Read in Class: Philippians 2:12-16. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.
Study: What does Paul mean by saying, “Work out your own salvation”? How would you describe the relation between faith and works? How does Paul describe what we, as children of God, are to be and to do?
Apply: While we are not saved by works, how does grace apply to our works in our practical everyday living? See Ephesians 2:8-10. Romans 1:5 and Titus 2:11-12.
Share: Your friend says that we work out our own salvation by deciding for ourselves what is right and wrong, rather than listening to the church. What do you tell your friend?
B. Read in Class: Philippians 2:17, 2 Timothy 4:6, and Romans 12:1-2,
Study: What is Paul saying in these passages?
Apply: Reflect on what it would mean for your life to be a “living sacrifice.” How much do you sacrifice for the kingdom of God, and what does your answer tell you about yourself?
Share: Your friend says that some people are way too fanatical and give up way too much to become Christians. They think they are holier than thou just because of their fanatical sacrifices and lifestyle. What do you tell your friend? Hint: See Matthew 26:6-13.
C. Read in Class: Philippians 2:19-23, 1 Corinthians 4:17, and 2 Timothy 1:5.
Study: Why do you think Paul speaks so positively and at such length about Timothy? What are some of the things Paul says about Timothy?
Apply: Think about the provocations, hardships, and annoyances you have faced recently. Have these been “meekly borne” and “well endured”? What can you do to enable these experiences to help make you more disciplined?
Share: Your friend says he thought we were not supposed to be praising other people, so why is Paul going on about how good Timothy is? What do you tell your friend? Is there a difference between praising someone and affirming them? If so, what is the difference?
D. Read in Class: Philippians 2:25-30. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.
Study: How does Paul describe Epaphroditus? What specific attitudes and actions of this Christian worker reveal his character?
Apply: How do we make sure that we shine as lights in the world without our good deeds and accomplishments giving us pride? See Matthew 5:16.
Share: Your friend says that while Epaphroditus almost worked himself to death, Ellen White says her husband James did work himself to death. Are we supposed to work ourselves to death for the sake of the Gospel? What do you tell your friend?
Mission: Can you think of someone who works hard for the church out of love and is a bright light for Jesus in a world of darkness? Can you commend them this week?
