Defined by Jesus – September 8th, 2017
(Philippians 1:1-2) We are Directed by Jesus (as servants); we are Defined by Jesus (as saints); and we are Dependent on Jesus (for His grace and peace)
“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi.” Philippians 1:1-2a
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Joyful Prayer – September 17th, 2017
(Philippians 1:1-11) Choose Jesus to choose joy. Our joy should not be attached to our circumstances but to our Savior. Let’s turn prayer from work into worship. Prayer is G.rateful R.elational A.doration C.onfident and E.mphasizing S.piritual needs.
“Always in every prayer of mine for you all, making my prayer with joy.” Philippians 1:4
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Joyful Suffering – September 24th, 2017
(Philippians 1:12-26) If our greatest joy is being one with Jesus then we can rejoice in suffering and even death.
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21
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Joyful Growth – October 1, 2017
(Philippians 1:24-30) A lesson in sanctification: what it means to be a growing believer and what it looks like. Working to make progress toward maturity in Christ.
“Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.” Philippians 1:27
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Joyful Service – October 8, 2017
(Philippians 2:1-11) Jesus’ mindset, ministry and majesty in contrast to our sin, selfishness and desperate need for grace. May we embrace the mind of Christ and follow His pathway to humble service and sacrifice, all for the glory of God!
“Have this mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:5
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Joyful Obedience – October 15, 2017
(Philippians 2:12-18) Because of who Jesus is and all He has done for us, we should faithfully and joyfully obey Him!
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” Philippians 2:12-13
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Joyful Ministry – October 22, 2017
(Philippians 2:19-30) Godly gospel workers demonstrate genuine concern and faithful service: the examples of Timothy and Epaphroditus, illustrated by the story of Martin Luther.
“For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know Timothy’s proven worth, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel.” Philippians 2:20-22
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Joyful Dependence – October 29, 2017
(Philippians 3:1-11) Entrusting yourself completely to Jesus is the only way to have real joy and safety. Two keys to joyful dependence: 1) Reject self-reliant religion; 2) Rely on Jesus as the only source of life.
“For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.” Philippians 3:3
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Joyful Hope – November 5, 2017
(Philippians 3:12-21) Run the race to win the prize. Avoid the pitfalls of performance, presumption, perfection and distractions of the past. Follow the signposts of dependence, discipline, humility and focus. Fix your eyes on the finish line when we will be finally home, perfectly holy and completely whole!
“But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14
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Joyful Peace – November 12, 2017
(Philippians 4:1-9) The peace of God will guard our hearts because the God of peace is with us. Five reasons to pursue peace in the church and three disciplines to cultivate peace with God.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
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Joyful Generosity – November 19, 2017
(Philippians 4:10-23) Share what you have been given. 7 gifts from God that are ours in Christ: joy, love, peace, faith, encouragement, resources and grace.
“I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:18-19
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Download Community Group Discussion Questions here: Joyful Generosity Discussion Questions