Exalted Jesus in our Hearts | ONE JOY | 1.15.23

Follow Along with the Message

1. Doing Life

As a church family, we care about each other’s lives: what we’re celebrating, what we’re mourning, what decisions we are praying through, and everything in between 

(1 Thessalonians 2:8, Romans 12:10, 15). Suggested time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing? 
• What can you thank God for this week?
• When were you most aware of Jesus’ presence this week? When were you least aware of Jesus’ presence this week?
• Do you have any practical needs?

2. Jesus Centered

God uses His Word to reveal Himself to us, equip us to live the good life He’s designed for us, show us our sin, and strengthen us as we follow Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Colossians 1:9-12, and James 1:22-25). Suggested Time: 20-40 minutes 

(Sermon Discussion Questions) Living with the exalted Jesus in our hearts.

Primary Scripture Passage:  Philippians 2: 9-11

1. After reading verses 9-11, what do you notice about the direction of Jesus’ life compared to the direction of his life in verses 5-8? 
2. When Paul uses the words “highly exalted” in verse 9 the Greek word is huperupsoó which is translated “to exalt beyond measure”.  Looking at Romans 6:4, what act in history is evidence that this is true and what does it mean for us?  (Also refer to 2 Corinthians 3:18)
3. Jesus’ earthly name was common enough that he needed to be identified as “Jesus of Nazareth”.  What is THE name that is above every name bestowed upon Jesus by God the Father and what does that say about Jesus’ identity? (see verse 11 and Exodus 3:14)
4. When verses 10-11 describe a time to come when “every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord”, why will the moment be sobering for some and a celebration for others?
5. Reflect on your own life circumstances – recent highs and lows – and then ask whether Jesus is the centerpiece of worship in your life.  How can we follow the example of Job seen in Job 1: 20-21?  Are there areas of our lives where we resist submitting to the Lordship of Jesus?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   3. Engaging the Heart

Jesus calls us to walk in the light, confessing our sins to God and each other. God’s Spirit works through confession and community to lead us to repentance. (Romans 3:23-24, James 5:16 and 1 John 1:5-10) Suggested Time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing abiding with Jesus this week in Scripture and prayer? 
• What sin do you need to confess to God? What are you struggling to trust Jesus with this week? How can you give Him control of it? (As people confess sin, make sure to remind one another of the good news Jesus offers.)

4. Expanding the Kingdom

Just like God the Father sent Jesus on a mission of reconciliation for us, Jesus sends us out as ambassadors of His reconciliation. We are called to make disciples wherever we go. (John 20:21 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20) Suggested time: 10-20 minutes

• People: Who in your life can you be building with right now? What does that look like during this season? 
• Plan: Are there any rhythms planned (virtual or in-person) that we can invite these friends into? What spiritual conversations do you want to initiate with them soon? 
• Pray: Let’s pray for our people by name; pray for their needs, opportunities to connect, and opportunities to have spiritual conversations that help them take the next steps toward Jesus.