Just Jesus – Philippians 1:21-30

hillside Just Jesus - Philippians 2019

JOY IN SUFFERING

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE

Philippians 1:21-30 NASB

21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. 23But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again.
27Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God. 29For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

OUTLINE

  • Truth 1:21
  • Transparency 1:22-26
  • Team 1:27
  • Tenacity 1:28-30

 

QUESTIONS

  1. (v. 1:21) How do you answer, “For me to live is __________________.” How does sin cause us to live in denial of what we are actually living for? Do you see death as gain?
  2. (v. 1:22-26) Do you do what you want to do or what’s best for others? How has this caused conflict in your marriage and other relationships? What does James 4 say about these competing desires? What would repentance look like for you?
  3. (v. 1:27) Christianity isn’t a solo sport! It is about us being one team. What are some of your opinions and preferences that you hold onto that bring division and discord? What would it look like to lay those down and see Jesus as better than your preferences?
  4. (v. 1:28-30) Why are “stress tests” necessary for our faith? Why do “stress tests” help others see the greatness of Jesus? How do you respond to opposition and suffering?

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