“Joy’s Confidence” (Phil. 1:12-30) by Mark Seekins

Posted by kellitempleton |  Print This Post

Here are the sermon questions for small group discussion. Please note that some homework might be needed prior to the meeting so give your group a head’s up.

1. Develop a working biblical definition of joy using a Bible dictionary. Contrast it with a dictionary definition of joy. How do happiness and joy differ? See this article for detailed answers Biblical Definition of Joy. In short, biblical joy is a deep contentment that is in the Lord based on trust in the sovereign, living God and is available always, even in difficult circumstances. Whereas happiness depends on our circumstances.
2. Research who wrote Philippians, to whom, why, and from where (Phil. 1:1-2 and other resources). Paul and Timothy wrote this letter to the church/believers in Philippi to encourage them to live out their lives according to what Christ has done for them. Paul is the primary author and most likely wrote this letter from Rome while on house arrest.
3. Read Phil. 1:12-30 and review the following:
   1. What does Paul say has resulted because of his imprisonment (v. 12-14)? the gospel has been advanced to the whole imperial guard and “all the rest” as well as encouraged and emboldened believers
   2. What are the motives of the two groups of people in verses 15-18? one group’s motive is out of envy and rivalry, the other good will and love
   3. What are Paul’s motives in considering life or death (v. 20-26)? to live is Christ and to die is gain; to live gives him fruitful labor for the sake of others; to die is to be with Christ
   4. Describe Paul’s challenge in verses 27-30. encourages believers to have their life be worthy of the gospel by standing firm, unified together, with one mind and purpose, with courage
4. What do you think it means “to conduct ourselves worthy of the gospel” (v. 27-30)? What other Scriptures help you answer this question? Each person on our question writing team had various answers: 1) to live so others want to know Christ (1 Pet 3:15;); 2) to live as the text describes - standing firm, etc; 3) to live unashamed of the gospel (Rom. 1:16); and 4) to live confident in our salvation (Jn 10:28-29).
5. How does being engaged in biblical community (small group) help us stand firm, do hard things, be fearless, and live out our faith? answers will vary but the essence is we encourage each other, remind each other of God’s love and grace and past mercy, challenge each other to not give in to temptation, rejoice together, etc.
6. Challenge: Find all the uses of “joy or rejoice” in Philippians and the context for each. What additional insights are you able to learn about joy? As a team we did this quickly on BibleGateway.com and we quickly saw that Paul’s use of joy was often associated with other believers faith and growth and support.

Break into gender groups to discuss the following application questions:

7. What is the most difficult circumstance you are presently facing? Why would choosing joy be best for you? How would it benefit others watching you? How do we choose joy as believers? This question is intended to move you into encouraging and reminding each other of God’s love and promises. To pray together also. Answers will vary. See article on question #1 for more in depth answers.

8. Share a time when you were part of fervent and effective prayer for others (Phil 1:19). How could your group grow in praying more effectively for each other (see Phil 1:9-11)? answers will vary but we are hoping that our prayers move towards God’s heart and away from comfort type prayers for each other. We hope that the natural experience for prayer is to experience the power of God as pray together and see Him answer prayers only He can answer. Praying in faith, with fervency and righteousness.