November 21, 2021
Jailhouse Joy: In This Together
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?
Listen to an audio version of the message
Songs for this week: Spotify
Philippians 4:14-23
Message Questions:
- What will be the strongest takeaway from Philippians for you?
- On a scale of 1-10, rate the following: How easy is it for you to say “I love you”? How easy is it for you to believe someone who says “I love you?” What makes you good or not so good at giving and receiving love?
- What are the needs in your life right now that have you questioning whether God is able to supply? Does it change anything to know he “meets all our needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus?” How?
- Where is God inviting you to ‘bend’ and ’adjust’ in order to stay in a friendship or even in fellowship with your church? Why is staying together so important?
- As a group, agree on one way in which you can “share in someone’s troubles” this December. How will you express your love to each other, to a neighbour, or maybe even an enemy?
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.
Share with a friend
Recent Sermons
Luke 12:13-21 - Jesus warns us about the hidden danger of greed. Discover three heart attitudes toward money—I deserve it, it’s all for me, and I’m better off with more—and why they matter.
Acts 20:32-38 - For three weeks, we explore what Jesus says about money. This week, Paul’s final message highlights contentment, hard work, and caring for the weak.
Luke 2:22-40 - This week we reflect on the quiet faithfulness of Joseph and Mary as they bring Jesus to the temple. In this moment of ordinary obedience, God meets them with extraordinary hope through Simeon and Anna.
Matthew 1:18-25 - God puts His people on the go. Explore God’s call to Joseph and how an ordinary life is drawn into a greater mission and purpose.
Luke 1:39-45-Unexpectedly pregnant before she was married, Mary’s life was in upheaval. God sent her to Elizabeth, who would encourage her with a blessing.
Luke 1:26-38 - This Christmas, discover how God is on the move—sending Gabriel to Mary in Nazareth and inviting ordinary people into the greatest story ever told. Explore Mary’s costly yet courageous “yes” and what it reveals about the Christian life.
