Chapter 10 - Philippians; Christ - the Paradigm

Synopis Chapter 10 – Philippians; Christ – the Paradigm Ref: Philippians 2:5-11 This lesson begins with an understanding of “Christ- the Paradigm “, and how our individual thought process influences our understanding of our relationship with Christ. First of all, what is a paradigm and why is it important to understand. Paradigm (A set of assumptions, concepts, values, and practices that constitute a way of viewing reality for the community that shares them, especially in an intellectual discipline). This lesson focuses on the way we as individuals think and interpret the writings in the Bible, similar to the way the Philippians would have interpreted Paul’s letter in Philippians 2: 5-11. Mark points out that there are basically two ways people think. Most people are Silo Thinkers or specialist, if you will, and others are individuals whose knowledge spans substantive number of subjects, known as a Polymath. Aristotle was a Polymath and was very influential across a broad range of complex subject matter. The author of the letter to the Philippians, Paul, was also a Polymath. Most thinkers about Jesus are Silo thinkers and come in different forms of thought: A-Myth B- Good Man  C- Created by The Church D- God as a Man As an example: the C: silo thinker would believe that the Church Created the stories and teachings about Jesus, but they were not reality, just stories. While Paul was a Polymath, he also was an ardent foe of Christ and did not believe Christ was the Messiah. This all changed when he had a face-to-face encounter with Christ. Paul’s life completely changed. Mark makes it clear that specialization is required but that our view and faith in the teachings of Jesus set forth in the Bible, should be manifested by living in the Gospel letting our manner of life be worthy of the Gospel of Christ. If not living based on the Gospel, dig into the gospel and learn how to live under the Cross of Christ. Only let your manner of life be worthy of Christ. Points to Ponder The saving gospel is tied to a well-lived life Follow Jesus, the model life Praise God