Philippians: 1:1-18

OPENING DISCUSSION

  • Where do you think most people believe joy comes from?

READ

Philippians 1:1–18 (ESV)

Reflect alone

- Take one or two minutes alone to re-read the passage, think about what priorities or values that Paul holds that might be different to what is the default for you?

DISCUSS:

  1. How does Paul describe his relationship with the Philippian church?

  2. What repeated words or themes stand out?

  3. What gives Paul joy when he thinks of the Philippians?

  4. What does this passage say about how gospel partnership draws people together?

  5. Where does Paul’s confidence about the Philippians’ future come from?

  6. How might assurance of God’s grace lead to more obedience, not less?

  7. How does a cross-centred mindset help us see hardship differently? (looking at how Paul views his imprisonment

REFLECT

  1. If someone looked at your time, money, or thought life, what would they say your life is centred on?

  2. What would it look like to live a cross-centred life — to have Christ, not self, at the centre?

  3. How does self-centred living ultimately rob us of joy?

  4. When is a time you have experienced Joy through Gospel partnership, or by reflecting on or sharing the work of the Cross?

APPLY

  1. What one step could you take this week to re-centre your life on Christ?

  2. Who might you encourage or speak boldly to about Jesus this week?

PRAY