Sunday Discussion
Complete Joy - Remembrance
Week 1
Transition: Last week we wrapped up the book of Ruth. Ruth and Boaz married, and God blessed them with a son. The women saw the child as a blessing for Naomi’s future. The final verses trace the lineage of Boaz, which would eventually lead up to Jesus, the Messiah.
Check Point: Would anyone like to share something they worked on from last week’s discussion?
Context: In this week’s text, Paul gives thanks for the Philippian believers in his prayer time, while he is imprisoned. He is filled with joy because of the partnership they share in the gospel and is confident that God will complete the good work he began in them.
Opening Questions:
• Who in your life always brings a smile to your face when you think of them? Describe them to the group and why they invoke a smile.
• Describe a team experience that brought you joy.
Scripture/Storying: Philippians 1:1-8
Discipleship Questions:
• What is the Holy Spirit teaching you through this story? How does it impact the way you think and live?
• Where does the idea of being a servant for Jesus get lost sometimes within church culture? What causes you to lose sight of this in your own life?
• About ten years had passed since Paul first worked among the Philippians, but the passing of time had not lessened his love for them. Describe a friendship with another believer that time and distance has not diminished your love and concern for.
• Even though Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter, his prayers for the Philippians were filled with joy. How does this challenge you? Describe a time when you felt joy even in trying circumstances.
• What comes to mind when you think of being in partnership with others in the gospel? What hinders
partnership in the gospel? What promotes it? How can partnership in the gospel be cultivated across denominational lines?
• Verse six says that God will complete the work that he started in the believer. How does this verse instill confidence in you? How does it encourage you concerning other believers?
Prayer time: – Street Hope, TN
•Pray for the Lord to give peace, strength, and guidance to the teachers at Garland Oaks. May the Lord bring safety, joy, and a deep sense of purpose to each day.
•Pray for the Street Hope team as they prepare for Hope Will Rise. May the Lord unite them in vision, lead them in every detail, and let this event be a powerful reflection of Christ’s hope & healing!