10/10/2010 Philippians 4:8-23

This page includes key slides from the sermon, a link to the sermon podcast, and a large range of questions you can pick from for your small group.

Sermon Scripture References:
Philippians 4:4-9

Listen to the sermon

Summary:

QUESTIONS

VERSES 4:8-9

1.    Most of us see areas in us that could be changed for the good.  How do people change - really ?

2.    What are some examples of thought patterns people have that are destructive, that do them no good ?

3.    Paul gives us a list of eight things that should be the focal point of our thought life.  What are they and why is each one important ?

4.    How disciplined is your mind - that is,  do you intentionally work at corralling untrue and unhealthy thoughts ?

5.    What are some personal guidelines you have established to help keep your heart and mind pure ?

6.    It seems as though Paul is advocating a kind of Christian form of meditation.  What do you think of this ?

7.    What do you see as the connection between verses 8 and 9?   Do you think one is more important than the other?

8.    How confident would you be telling a younger Christian what Paul told the Philippians in verse 9.  Why ?

9.    Paul seems to be suggesting that when our thinking is spiritually sound or circumstances will stop stealing our joy.  How can this be?  Have you ever experienced this in your life ?

10.    Are you a content person ?

11.      a. How much are your moods dependent on your circumstances?  and  Is that a bad thing?
            b.  Surely we are not called to be stoic robots - it was God's idea that we are moved emotionally by things.  What  do you think is a healthy relationship between your faith if God, your situations, your moods and your thoughts would look like in real life ?   How would you know if you are too dependent on your circumstances for your contentedness ?

12.    One of the best ways to tune our minds in to what is true is developing specific disciplines for daily study of the bible.  What commitment do you have or do you want to have for a regular study of the Bible?

13.    If you wanted us to, how could we as your small group keep you accountable to this goal?

14.    Paul tells us to practice what he says in verse 9.  How might you put into practice one thing he says in 4:2-20 this week?

VERSES 4:10-23

15.    What are the things in life that bring you the deepest joy and happiness?

16.    Describe a time when you felt truly content and at peace.  What was the source of your contentment?

17.    How does Paul's understanding of contentment fly in the face of conventional wisdom ?

18.    What would Paul say to the person who says
a.  Ill be content when I get my next promotion, raise, or new car
b. I'll be content when I have all my needs met.
c. This world is too uncertain; there is no hope for finding lasting contentment

19.    We tend to feel content when we are well fed and living in plenty.  Describe a time when you did not have some of the basics of life yet you still felt content.

20.    Why did Paul want the Philippian church to grow in their discipline of giving ?

21.    What helps a Christian grow more confident and disciplined as a giver ?

22.    What are some of the spiritual blessings you have in Christ that no person or situation could ever take away form you ?

23.    What  phrase seems most significant, most strikes you in all the things that Paul has said in Chapter 4.  Why this phrase?

24.    How would you summarize Paul's main message in Chapter 4 ?

25.    How can we pray for you?