Sunday Discussion
Complete Joy - Week 9 - Counting All Things as Loss
Transition: In last week’s text, Paul exhorted the Philippians to shine as lights rather than get entangled in grumbling and arguing. He then described two incredible Christian men of character and selflessness, who both shined like stars.
Check Point: Would anyone like to share something they worked on from last week’s discussion?
Context: In today’s text, Paul exhorts the Philippians to place their confidence in Christ rather than in religious credentials. He goes on to show that true righteousness comes from Jesus and not anything that we can accomplish.
Opening Questions:
• What is something that once held significance to you, but no longer holds much importance?
• What does joy mean to you personally, and how do you hang on to it in stressful times?
Scripture/Storying: Philippians 3:1-11
Discipleship Questions:
• What is the Holy Spirit teaching you through this story? How does it impact the way you think and live?
• What spiritual reminders do you need most? Why is there safety in being reminded of spiritual truths?
• What does knowing Christ personally, the way Paul describes, look like to you? Why do you think Paul values knowing Christ more than his worldly successes? How might you grow closer to Jesus during this time in your
life?
• What ways have you observed people placing their confidence in achievements? Why do you think people look for righteousness and identity in accomplishments? How can you move from reliance on earthly achievements to God’s grace?
• What is Paul getting at when he says that he counts everything as loss? How might you begin loosening your grip more on possessions or accomplishments?
• What does it mean to share Christ’s sufferings? Why do you think Paul valued sharing the experience of Christ’s suffering? How has hardship pushed you closer to Christ?
• What forms of religious pride easily entangle people? How can you guard your heart from entanglement in
religious pride?
Prayer time:
• Hope Resource Center
• Pray for the mothers who are in their parenting classes.
• Pray for their patients facing unexpected, challenging circumstances.
• Pray over the upcoming 35 baby showers for the HOPE moms completing their parenting classes.