Philippians 1:3–11 (Pt. 1) | Resources
Discussion Questions
Who would you say that you pray for regularly? Who brings you joy when you pray for them?
What does the phrase “partnership in the gospel” mean? How did this church partner in the gospel with Paul?
When did God’s work “start” in your life? Briefly share your salvation story.
What does verse 6 teach us about God’s work in us? How have you seen this play out in your life?
This text teaches us the power of Christian community. When was a time you experienced this deep sense of love and unity? How can our Small Group grow in this?
In light of our text/sermon, what would it look like to obey?
Memory Verse
“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.” Philippians 1:6 (CSB)
Devotional
As Paul shares his feelings of thankfulness and joy for the Philippian church, he makes mention of their partnership with him in the gospel. He tells them that “you are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel” (7b).
When reading any passage of Scripture, we must keep in mind the context. In this case, Paul is writing to the church at Philippi. But we can also understand these words as having abiding relevance for the church at large. Paul’s letters were penned through the inspiration of the Spirit and have been providentially preserved by God for the saints of all ages. Because of this, we can certainly ask ourselves how we are likewise partnering with Paul and every saint throughout church history in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.
How are we as a church bringing the light of Jesus Christ to the dark world in which we find ourselves? At First Family Church, we are committed to developing devoted followers of Jesus Christ. The Spirit of Christ empowered Paul and the Philippians in this task, and He will surely do the same for us!