Coastline Bible Church is doing an eight-week sermon series called: "Defined by Joy." The Apostle Paul helped plant the church in Philippi (see Acts 16) but never forget about them. They played a key role in supporting him as God called him to plant other churches. From this series we want to learn how to have our lives defined by joy and not circumstances. Paul modeled this well to the early church. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.
Small Group Questions | One Thing | Philippians 3:1-14
Paul’s life is interesting because he chose to persecute, and even kill, Christians. Paul had a very religious past but met Jesus and his life was radically changed (see Acts 9). Paul starts chapter 3 with what seems like he might be ending the letter but he is continuing his thoughts on being joyful. Paul used this opportunity to teach the church about false teachers who were looming around. He longed for the church to know the truth of God. This meant being able to leave the good things of their life behind so they can grow in their faith. In these verses Paul teaches us the downfall of works-based righteousness, the benefits of faith-based righteousness and following Christ.
1) Have your group look over Acts 9:1-17. Saul was on a mission to persecute Christ followers but was intercepted by Jesus. The meeting with Jesus radically changed Saul’s life. What one thing happened in your life that radically changed you?
2) Read Philippians 3:1-2. Paul warns the church about false teachers and the trouble they cause. Read Exodus 7:11-13, 2 Timothy 3:8-9, Matthew 23:13, and 2 Peter 2:1. Identify a false teaching you’ve come across and how you knew it was false.
3) Paul realized he had put his confidence in the wrong place (see Philippians 3:4-6). Read 2 Samuel 11:1-15 and Mark 10:17-23. When have you placed your confidence in the wrong place and how did it turn out?
4) Read Philippians 3:7-9. Paul is able to explain his conversion and the life change of having righteousness in Jesus. Read Romans 3:23, 5:8, 6:23, and 10:9-10. Share with your group about the time you placed your trust in Jesus.
5) There is something special about having long-term relationships. Read Philippians 3:10-11. Paul wanted to know Jesus. Read 1 Samuel 3:1-10 and Psalm 46:10. How are you growing in your relationship with Jesus and learning His voice?
6) Read Philippians 3:12-14. The phrase “one thing” is used throughout the Scripture (see Psalm 27:4 and John 9:25). What is the one thing that is keeping you from following Jesus that you need to give up right now?
7) Paul was devoted to Christ, growing in the right direction, and had a determination as a Christian. Thinking about these three words, what would your closest friends say you are devoted to, the direction of your life, and your determination?
Close your time in prayer by praying for: The City Center.
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