S 04 | Ep 06 | Philippians 2:1-11
Scripture: Philippians 2:1-11
Main Takeaway: Following Jesus makes a difference in our lives. Read: Philippians 2: 1-11 Reflect: What is one word that immediately stands out to you in this passage? Why? Before we get into the discussion, what are some things that stood out to you in this week’s podcast or the Sunday message?
Message Connection: The message this week focused less on how we relate to the outside world and instead leaned into our relationships inside the church. The message mentioned three new differences that following Jesus makes in our lives and how we relate to one another.
How should that look? What should mark our lives now that we love and follow Jesus?
Teaching Point 1: A New Unity Read: Philippians 2: 1-2 Commentary: Paul’s use of the phrase “if there is any” (encouragement, comfort, etc.) can make us stop and think. On one hand, he’s not saying he doubts these things are already true among the community. On the other hand, we should avoid inserting the word “since” as if he is saying these things are fully present. Instead, he is introducing a tension. While these qualities are present in the Philippians, they must continue to put them into practice and let them have their full effect in their lives and community. Discussion: What comes to mind when you think of church unity? What does unity require of each of us? What about disunity? How have you seen disunity on display in a church?
Look back through the words Paul uses in verse 2 (same mind, same love, full accord, one mind). It’s clear from these phrases that Paul is looking at the Philippians’ entire mental and emotional disposition. He is describing their full commitment to unity, not just outward agreement, but a shared mindset and heart.
Pray: Pause and pray for this kind of full unity in our church and your House Church.
Teaching Point 2: A New Attitude Read: Philippians 2: 3-4 Discussion: Describe what it feels like for someone to put your interests above their own. Break into groups (if possible) and discuss how you’ve seen this happen.
Why can this be difficult for us to do? What is one way you can live this out tomorrow in your life (in marriage, parenting, friendships, work, school)?
Teaching Point 3: A New Posture Read: Philippians 2: 6-8
Reflection: Paul points to Christ, who lived a perfect life of service and humility. We should ponder deeply this concept: He who was truly equal with God, lowered himself to the status of slave and died on a Cross. This is our model and the pattern we strive for together.
Discussion: How does it make you feel that Jesus humbled Himself in this way for you? How should this impact the way we view others and relate to one another? What if we eagerly searched for opportunities to show honor, deference, and service to one another?
Group Exercise: Read Philippians 2:10-11 together as a group as loudly and as worshipful as you can. Be sure to include the kids in this time. Close in prayer and ask God to help us live out these new realities as we fix our eyes on Jesus.