Prepared by William Earnhardt for Sabbath School class, February 14, 2026.

Central Theme:  We need not place our hopes in earthly systems of government, which regularly disappoint us. As Christians, we are citizens of God’s heavenly kingdom. And with that, citizenship comes privileges, wonderful privileges. And responsibilities, too.

Read in Class: Philippians 3:17-19. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.

Study:  How are good and bad role models described in this passage? What keys are given to distinguish between them?

Apply: Though, of course, Jesus is the only perfect pattern, there are others who, at least in certain areas, could be good role models. At the same time, what kind of role model do you present to others?

Share: Your friend asks, “How are we supposed to work, pay the bills, and take care of our home without thinking about earthly things?” What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Philippians 3:20-21. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.

Study: How does Paul vividly describe what Christian “citizenship” looks like?

Apply: How does our everyday lifestyle, how we dress, what we eat, and what we do for entertainment reflect where our citizenship is? How do you spot a tourist in your community? How do people in your community know your citizenship is in heaven?

Share: Your friend asks why it is so important to know we have the promise of eternal life in order to live like citizens of heaven. What do you tell your friend? See 1 John 5:13.

Read in Class: Philippians 4:4-9. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.

Study: How are we to experience “the peace of God”? What specific actions are urged?

Apply: What practical steps do you use to keep your mind contemplating pure, noble, and redeeming themes? Especially in a world with so much evil and impurity?

Share: Your friend asks you what it means to experience the peace of God. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Philippains 4:10-13, 19. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.

Study: What keys does Paul reveal for a contented, happy life?

Apply: How do you deal with the things that you have prayed for that have not yet come, or perhaps might never come?

Share: Your friend asks whether you have ever had an answer to prayer that you knew was a genuine miracle, not just a stroke of luck. What do you tell your friend?

Mission: Do you know someone who needs to accept the plan of salvation, so they can have peace of mind and a hope beyond this earth? Can you share it with them this week?