September 19, 2021
Jailhouse Joy: Contending As One
Philippians is Paul’s most joyful letter even though he’s in jail, he’s old, people are behaving poorly and it’s not clear if things will get any better. Can there be real joy when circumstances are awful?
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Philippians 1:27-29
Message Questions:
- “Whatever happens”. Did your family have mottos? ‘Whatever happens Allisons never quit!’ was one of ours. What was true about your family ‘whatever happens’?
- “Whatever happens conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel.” What does that look like? What does that NOT look like?
- V. 27 talks about ’standing as one, contending as one’ as a fundamental way for Christians. In a day when Christians disagree about many things, how have you settled into ’standing as one’ with other believers?
- Is there any place in your life where you’re feeling frightened? Does the command to “not be frightened in any way by those who oppose you” give you a shot of adrenaline or suck the blood from your veins? How does one become ‘unafraid’?
- “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him but also to suffer for him.” (v. 29). How do you feel about the ‘gift’ of suffering for Jesus?
Extend your small group discussion with the expanded guide for today’s message. It includes more questions and soul training practices for you and your small group.
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