AS CHRIST-FOLLOWERS, WE LIVE AS PATRIOTS UNITED FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD! (Philippians 1:27-30)
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SERMON NOTES:
Patriots!
As Christ-followers, we live as patriots united for the Kingdom of God!
God expects us to be true patriots. (27a)
- Standing firm in the Spirit. (27b)
- Fighting for the Gospel as one. (27c)
- Unintimidated by opposition. (28a)
Our patriotism is strengthened when we remember…
- God wins in the end. (28b)
- God graciously gives. (29)
- We are not alone. (30)
study questions:
For the Next Lesson – Philippians 1:27-30
1. Read verse 27. Paul shifts from telling the Philippians about his life and his prayers to challenging them to “be worthy”. What does a life “worthy of the gospel of Christ” look like (take some time to really think about this)? According to this verse, what is the result of a “worthy” life? Notice the emphasis on unity and togetherness in these verses. Why do you think Paul is making this emphasis? Why is unityso difficult in real life? How can this unity be accomplished?
2. Read verse 28. What causes the Philippians to not be fearful as they face opponents (consider verse 27)? Why is this important. What is a sign of the destruction of their opponents and the salvation of the Philippians? From where does our salvation come from? Why is it important to consider the source of our salvation as we face both physical and spiritual“opponents” to our faith?
3. Read verses 29-30. The word “granted” carries a positive meaning as it is derived from the word for grace. Who is doing the granting, and why is the granting happening? What are the two things granted to the Philippians? Do you see both of the things given to the Philippians as positive acts of grace? Why or why not? What is a reality of life as a Christian that Paul is communicating to the Philippians? Have we also been granted these two things? If so, how does this affect the way we walk through life as Christians?
4. So what. As you consider these verses, what should our attitude be toward challenges, hardship and suffering that comes with living for Christ? What is your attitude toward suffering that is caused by standing for Christ? Do you see yourself as someone who is “in the fight” standing and striving for the Gospel? How so? Are you doing it alone or together? How would you like to grow in how you stand for Christ and face suffering?