Philippians 1:27–30 | Resources
Discussion Questions
What does it mean to live as a citizen of heaven, not just a citizen of your country?
Why is so hard to live every day as a citizen of heaven?
Has your life recently been “worthy of the gospel of Jesus?” What would your life look like if it was completely “worthy”?
How might churches and Christians partner together better for the sake of the gospel?
What does this text teach us about suffering for Christ’s sake?
In light of our text/sermon, what would it look like to obey?
Memory Verse
“For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him.” Philippians 1:29
Devotional
“Citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ.”
Paul drops that bomb of a statement with a seemingly casual “Just one thing.”
This closing paragraph of chapter one can be summarized in this one statement. So let’s make it personal. You, FFCer, the one who’s reading this right now: are you living your life worthy of the gospel of Christ? Are you standing firm in one spirit with the believers in your life and church? Are you contending for the faith? Are you suffering for him?
Many of us, if we’re honest, would answer those questions with a “no” or a “not as much as I should.”
If you’re a blood-bought, chosen, sanctified believer in Jesus, this is what Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, is commanding you to do. But instead of feeling disappointment in yourself for not doing these things better, or feeling overwhelmed at the idea of living this way, you should be comforted. That’s right. And you don’t have to look far for it.
Verse six of this chapter reads, “I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Follower of Jesus, God began a good work in you the day He saved you. And Paul is sure that He will complete that work. So take heart. From the brand-new convert to the seasoned pastor, each and every Christian is on a different step of their “good work” journey that God has them on.
So today, strive to live a life worthy of the gospel of Christ. But also take comfort that God will bring the good work started in you to completion.
“He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.” 1 Thess. 5:24 (ESV)