apxs vs. apache module.

I know that
'PHP can be installed as a Apache Module ie. --with-apache option' or
'PHP can be installed as a loadable module of Apache ie. --with-apxs option'
But what exactly do they mean, and what are their differences.
I plan to install tarballs in the following order:
1) MySQL
2) Apache
3) PHP

I also recollect that the latest Apache version has a option of --with-php in it. What will it do if i use it.(does that mean i dont need to install PHP)

I have gone through many docs. but they tend to be confusing.
please suggest me a good method with possible options.
If possible please enumerate on the --with-apxs and --with-apache options. I would like to know exactly what they mean.???

thanx

duke.