Philippians by Sue Edwards (Book Review!)

Philippians: Discovering Joy Through Relationship

(Discover Together Bible Study)

by Sue Edwards

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian / Bible Study

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 77

Age Group- Adult (women)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $13.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4399-2

Philippians is the latest Bible study in the Discover Together Bible Study series from Sue Edwards.  This Bible study has eight lessons that should be taken at your own pace.  Each lessons contains questions to answer, Digging Deeper sections, and QR codes for videos on the internet.  You can also access the videos on the computer via the website, www.discovertogetherseries.com.

About the Author-

Sue Edwards currently is in ministry in Dallas and at Dallas Theological Seminary.  She has been married for over forty years and has two daughters and five grandchildren.  She has also coauthored books with other people.

My thoughts-

I participated in one of Sue Edwards Bible Studies, 1 Peter, several years ago.  I really enjoyed it, and I was excited to do this one.

I thought the questions were thought provoking.  The Digging Deeper sections were some of my favorite parts.  They always gave me more to think about. 

I like doing Bible studies that involve an entire book, because I am able to learn more than I would if I studied individual verses.  I like the extra verses that are also added in.  These studies also help me to think more about what I’ve read and I begin to explore other parts of the Bible to find out more.  I also talk about the topics I’ve been studying.  Bible studies are a great way to get people talking about God and the Bible.

I enjoyed watching the videos, but I wish the text was in the book.  I don’t have anything that can read the QR codes, and it can be a hassle to take the time to turn on the computer and make sure it is running when I get to the video section of the lesson.

I recommend this book and this series to women, because that is who it was written for, but I think men could learn a lot too.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Philippians, by Sue Edwards, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 8)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides

1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 102

Age Group- Adult Women

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198

Lesson 8, “Persevere with the End in Mind” 1 Peter 4:7-19

I think in today’s society we focus too much on the now and not on the future.  As a Christian we must focus on the future and the end time on earth.

Peter thought prayer was very important and I really agree, because it is one of the ways we speak with God.  Without prayer we wouldn’t be able to talk with God and share our praises and concerns.

I learned that you need to have self-control and be sober-minded to have an authentic and consistent mind while praying.  When I say my own prayers, I have found it best to kneel or sit, because if I do it any other way, I lose my focus.

One of the other important things I learned this week is that we need to love and keep loving others in a Godly way, even when we are feeling out of sorts.  Peter says that love covers many sins.  And this week, no matter how frustrated people make me, I am going to show them unconditional love.

Next week is our last week.  I hope you have been enjoying my views from these lessons.

I hope you all have had a wonderful week and I will inform you next week about my thoughts on “Lesson Nine.”  Please look at the rest of my blogs for the other lessons.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 7)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides
1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards
Published by- Kregel Publications
Copyrighted- 2011
Number of pages- 102
Age Group- Adult Women
Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198




Lesson 7: Stand Strong When Wronged 1 Peter 3:13-4:6
I have relearned some important parts of life in this lesson
I am a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom and I have found that whenever I speak out in frustration to the children, like when they aren't listening to me, that life doesn't go well for any of us. And If I treat them kindly and gently and smile, then all of the negativity leaves us. I need to remember to always treat people with respect and gentleness, so kindness can be passed on.
I have spent time praying and thinking about this lesson. The Holy Spirit is telling me that I need to study the Bible and learn everything I can, so that I can kindly and respectfully answer question that people ask me about my hope and Christ.
I hope you all have had a wonderful week and I will inform you next week about my thoughts on “Lesson Eight.”  Please go to my main website to see previous lessons.  Thank you.
Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson Six)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides
1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards
Published by- Kregel Publications
Copyrighted- 2011
Number of pages- 102
Age Group- Adult Women
Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198
Link to Lesson 1.
Link to Lesson 2.
Link to Lesson 3.
Link to Lesson 4.
Link to Lesson 5.


Lesson 6, “Pursue Peace with Doves and Dragons” 1 Peter 3:8-12
I have learned so much from these lessons and this one is especially important as it is about the church and how we need to work together with harmony, sympathy, love, and humility. 
Next to the case study about a mother and her two grown daughters, my favorite section was the “Living Stone Story” about a pastor’s wife and how she responded to the disappointment from a woman in the church.  This woman said the wife had not met her needs, disappointed her, and was not a good pastor’s wife.  The pastor’s wife had a clear conscience and spoke to the woman nicely, but firmly about how her focus was on obeying God and that she (the pastor’s wife) or perhaps someone else was who God had in mind to help this woman meet her needs.
I know that I need to be just like that pastor’s wife, exuding harmony, sympathy, love, and humility for my church family.  I will pray to God every day, so that I can make that happen.
I hope you all have had a wonderful week and I will inform you next week about my thoughts on “Lesson Seven.”
Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 5)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides

1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 102

Age Group- Adult Women

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198

Link to Lesson 1.

Link to Lesson 2.

Link to Lesson 3.

Link to Lesson 4.

Lesson 5, “Strengthen the Sacred Mix” 1 Peter 3:1-7

1 Peter 3:1-7 is very important for women in today’s hostile world.  We need to be pure and reverent to everyone all the time.  We can become upset of course, but we need to be pure and reverent at the same time. 

My favorite and the most instructive part for me discussed talking to much and Christian wives not discussing faith to their unbelieving husbands.  When you have the time look up Proverbs 10:19, 13:3, 17:1, 17:28, 18:2 to learn how talking less actually says more.  I have discovered that I talk too much.  Also if I don’t speak a lot, the showing of my faith will come through and it will help others become faithful.

This lesson will help me become a better woman.k

I hope you all have had a wonderful week and I will inform you next week about my thoughts on “Lesson Six.”

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 4)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides

1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 102

Age Group- Adult Women

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198

Link to Lesson 1.

Link to Lesson 2.

Link to Lesson 3.

Lesson 4- “Shadow the Servant” 1 Peter 2:11-25

This week I was really drawn to “Core Two: Living for Christ in a Hostile Society.”

People have always lived in hostile societies, our just seems worse than previous years, since there is such a media focus on the negative and not the positive.  I think over time (a long time) that social media could improve the hostile society, because so many positive messages could be posted.

Peter’s message can speak to us and anyone at any point in time, but telling us how to best adjust to all of the negativity.  One of his most important points is that we must submit to those in authority. 

The book of Daniel shows a good example of how to submit to authority, yet be able to do what is best according to the Lord.  Daniel asked in Daniel 1:13-17 to have a trial period where he and the other men with him could eat their food and then if it didn’t work they would eat the King’s food.  Daniel was able to maintain his integrity while submitting to the king.

Government officials around the world will learn from people who show Christ-like behavior how it should be.  And we need to remember while submitting to them that when Christ comes back they will have to answer to him about their transgressions. 

I am going to do my best to live my life with Christ and submit to government officials in our hostile society.

I hope you all have had a wonderful week and I will inform you next week about my thoughts on “Lesson Five.”

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 3)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides

1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 102

Age Group- Adult Women

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198

Link to Lesson 1.

Link to Lesson 2.

Lesson 3- “Rejoice That You Rock”

This week went more smoothly for me.  I am finally getting the hang of doing a daily study and answering the questions in a timely, but thoughtful manner.

I have been reading the series, Elsie Dinsmore, by Martha Finley, so this week I found myself very interested in “Core Two: Your Ministry as a Priest.”  Those books are Christian and have many different Bible verses and the characters do a great deal with administering their priestly duties.  The books take place in the late 1800’s so the men have a major part in the books, but the women are important as well.  And the women’s priestly roles are as parents and that is the way I see myself.  I am a priest in my own household to my children.  I could also be a priest to other women, but I don’t feel that I should be a priest in a church.

I hope you all have had a wonderful week and I will inform you next week on “Lesson Four.”

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 2)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides

1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 102

Age Group- Adult Women

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198

Link to Lesson 1.

Lesson 2- “Respond like a Bone-Dry Babe”

Lesson two has been thought provoking.  I really enjoyed studying Core 4 (“Love One Another") and Core 5 (Satisfy Your Craving”). 

I liked Core 4, because it shows that if we can truly love our neighbors then we are loving and obeying God.  In Core 5, I was captivated by the thought of spiritual milk.  Comparing it so much to a mother’s milk turned me off until I thought of a cow instead of a human mother.  We do need that milk, literal or figurative, and we will become much better Christians if we satisfy our cravings for the word of God (the spiritual milk).  These two cores has shown me a lot in how I need to grow in Christ, with how I treat others and how I study the Bible.  I need to make a daily effort to do both.  I need to reach out to at least one person to show them how much they are loved by me (and God) and I need to read the Bible, so I can better help those people and myself.  And I think I am going start in my own family and then work from there.

One thing that is concerning me as I am reading and doing this Bible study, is that it is taking much longer than an 1 1/2 just to do the Core sections.  In the introduction it said that this study would take that amount of time and I think it takes me around 1/2 an hour to do one Core.  I am hoping that as I become fluent in doing this Bible study that my time will improve, because I am running out of time in the day to do what I need to do, perhaps this is a sign I need to make more time for God.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

1 Peter by Sue Edwards (Lesson 1)

Genre- Religion/Biblical Studies/Bible Study Guides

1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Published by- Kregel Publications

Copyrighted- 2011

Number of pages- 102

Age Group- Adult Women

Description of book- Paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-0-8254-4198

Lesson 1

I was excited to learn about this study and participate for this is the first week and we have completed Lesson 1, which covered 1 Peter 1:1-12.

Sue Edwards has developed three levels of study: “core” questions, “digging deeper” questions, and “summit” questions.  Each level takes a great amount of time and resource dedication.  As the participant, we needed to pick the level that would work the best for us.  I have chosen the second level, “digging deeper,” because I have the outside resources of atlas, Bible dictionary, and concordance.

I really enjoy the way this book is laid out and I am doing one Core a day within each lesson.  And the Living Stone Story was a great addition.  I am looking forward to reading each one.

I can’t wait for Lesson 2!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received 1 Peter by Sue Edwards for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.