When Paul writes to the church at Philippi, he’s writing from prison. In chains because of the gospel, Paul not only rejoices, but continues to preach! He even argues that the gospel is advancing in part because of his chains. This probably came as a shock to the Philippians.¹ How could the gospel advanced when Paul is chained?

It’s advancing for a few reasons. First, others are taking on the work of preaching. Possibly afraid that word would stop spreading with Paul in chains, others are taking on the business of teaching it themselves. Some have wonderful motives, and some have less-than desirable motives, but Paul doesn’t care because, either way, the gospel is being preached.²

The good news of Jesus is also spreading because Paul is stuck to prison guards all day, every day. Can you imagine being one of those guards? You would hear Paul’s prayers, his teachings, his letter dictations. You would know the gospel inside and out whether you wanted to or not! I have to imagine that God touched the heart of several of those soldiers as they listened to Paul’s words about Jesus.³

You probably aren’t in chains for talking about Jesus, but you may be a bit of an outcast. Kids may call you “weird” at school. You may not fit in because you don’t listen to the same music as others. People might be annoyed that you’re “always talking about Jesus.” If that’s the case, be encouraged! Paul was in chains for “always talking about Jesus” and he certainly didn’t fit in. Yet, because of his faithfulness, God’s word spread. His chains caused a chain reaction throughout his known world. And God’s Word and work in your life can cause a chain reaction, too!

Let’s do an experiment to cause a chain reaction and remind us of the power of God to spread his word through us.

Experiment

What you’ll need:

Popsicle sticks

What you’ll do:

Interlock the popsicle sticks according to the pictures. Make sure every popsicle stick is always over one and under another. You can make it as big or small as you like! As the potential energy builds, use your hand to hold down the area you’re working with. Once you are satisfied with the length, let it go, pull the first stick, and watch the chain reaction! If you’re struggling, you can find a YouTube video by searching “Potential Energy Popsicle Sticks.”

What’s the Science?

The pressure building up on the interlocking sticks is a buildup of potential energy- energy waiting to be released. The energy and tension grow with each added stick. By the time you release it, the energy rushes through the chain, causing the popsicle sticks to scatter.

How can it apply to my life?

The change in our lives when we know Jesus should cause a chain reaction. Not only will we see differences in our own life, but we’ll long for others to know about Jesus as well. This causes a chain reaction. It starts with us, and spreads to others. How can you let your love of Jesus build up in your life to cause a chain reaction in the lives of others this week? God’s potential energy through you is limitless!

Dig Deeper

For a children’s Bible Study tool on the book of Philippians, check out this Kid’s Companion: Blazing Stars. Other Kid’s Companions are found here.

For more Bible lesson plans that involve object lessons and STEAM activities, click here.

References

1. Thielman, Frank. NIV Application Commentary: Philippians. Grand Rapids, Michigan. Zondervan, 1995. Print. Pages 58-59.
2. Radmacher, Earl D., et al. Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary. T. Nelson Publishers, 1999. Print. Page 1547.
3. Draper Jr., James T. Philippians: The Believer’s Joy in Christ. Wheaton, IL. Tyndale House Publishers, 1980. Print. Page 30.