9/26/2010 Philippians 2:12-16
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 2:12-16
QUESTIONS:
Verses 2:12-13
1. Verses 2:12-13 are linked to verses 2:1-11 with a "Therefore" What do these two sections of scripture have to do with each other?
2. How would you restate 2:13 in your own words ?
3. Like snowflakes and fingerprints, no two Christians are alike. God is working in our lives in varied ways and according to a unique blue print. What are the areas of your life in which you see tangible growth and progress, and what are the areas in which you long for change ?
4. How is working out your salvation different from working for it?
5. As you review 1:27-2:16, what particular attitudes and actions does Paul think should be part of this working out of our salvation ?
6. How could a group of Christians help each other in working out their salvation?
7. There is a common tendency for young Christians to rely heavily on the faith and presence of other believers (see verse 12). When does spiritual dependence become unhealthy ?
8. How can Christians live with joy if we are also expected to live with fear and trembling ?
9. Fear and Trembling suggests a deep reverence for God. How does one develop this sense of holy awe?
Verses 2: 14-16
10. In verses 2:14-16 what reasons do you find for doing everything without complaining or arguing ?
11. How much of a problem do you have with complaining and arguing ?
12. What attributes of God do we fail to acknowledge when we complain or argue?
13. What should we do instead when we don't like what is happening ?
14. Is it ever appropriate to complain or argue ? If so, what could be some tests you could use to determine if a given situation is an appropriate time to speak up?
15. How do we avoid the ever-present danger of trying to live exemplary lives so that we will get the attention and admiration of others?
16. What would it mean in practical terms in your everyday life to "hold out the word of truth ?"
17. Go through 2:12-16 underlining all the verbs. Not what Paul says God is doing. Observer the actions expected of believers. What strikes you ?
18. How can you sine as a light and hold out the word of life during the coming week ?
19. Paul says that followers of Christ are to shine like stars in the universe. What are the attitudes and actions Paul mentions in this passage that will make our lives shine?
20. What is one area of your life where you desire prayer as you seek to let your light shine?