DISCUSSION GUIDE 10.24.21
Philippians 1:1-26
Note: Today we start Paul’s letter to the Philippians. It’s a personal letter that God has preserved through the ages so that we can know him better and that we’d be blessed by it. Aaron began by giving an overview of the letter and then focused on verses 1-26. One of the main themes Aaron wanted us to take hold of was Paul’s desire to see the Philippians progress in the faith for the advancement of the gospel. Just as Paul reflects on his situation and how it serves to advance the gospel, he wants the Philippians to make the connection, to reflect on how God is at work in them to advance the gospel.
Group Discussion Questions:
- As you reflect on the sermon this week, how did the Holy Spirit speak to your heart?
- Was there a verse/passage that jumped out to you? Share why the verse or passage struck you.
- Aaron began by highlighting our ministry partners. He said our ministry partners were a concrete example of the heart of the message in the book of Philippians. In what ways do these partnerships point us to the gospel? How does this partnership serve to advance the gospel?
- How is Christ being magnified in our lives, jobs, and homes?
Read and discuss verses 1:1-26
- Read 1-11. How does Paul demonstrate how prayer, thanksgiving, and joy are hallmarks that distinguish the Christian life?
- Arron said, “This kind of ‘thanksgiving + prayer’ kind of life results in a life of joy.” Do you find this to be true in your own life? How does it lead to Joy, and why?
- Read 12-26. What was Paul’s perspective about his own circumstances? What are the implications for our circumstances?
- What does this passage teach us about having confidence in God’s sovereignty? Is it consoling, encouraging, and comforting to think about being under the sovereign care of God?
- How can God’s sovereign care inject confidence into circumstances that otherwise are trying to strip it away?
- How can we learn to see things from God’s perspective?
- Verses 20-21 are thought of as the anthem of Paul’s life. How do we live like Paul here? How do we live so that the gospel becomes the singular passion of our lives? How do we live so that “gospel-centered” is not just a tagline?
Application: What do I need God to do in me or through me as a result of today’s discussion?
Ministry Partners Updates:
Youth Horizons Christmas Concert is Monday, November 29th. They are needing volunteers to help with the event. If your small group is interested in helping, please email Paul Williams at planewilliams@gmail.com . Or you can call Youth Horizons office at 316-262-8293. They can give you more details on what is needed.