Fighting Spiritually Together | One Joy

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) 

• At the beginning of Phil’s sermon, Phil referenced the potter and clay and prayed that we would have the desire to be molded by God. In what areas of your life are you allowing God to mold you?

• Brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, kindred spirit, proven character, and genuinely concerned are all words that Paul used to describe Timothy and Epaphroditus. Which of these traits resonate with you? Why?

• Why is the connection between Philippians 1:21 and 2:21 so important for us to consider?

•  Bernard of Clairvaux’s 4 Stages of Christian Maturity are shown below. How do we move from stage 2 onto stage 3 or 4?

Stage 1 - love of self for self sake

Stage 2 - love of God for self sake 

Stage 3 - love of God for God's sake

Stage 4 - love of self for God's sake 

• Phil encouraged us to create a culture of honor in our community. How do we do that? What should we focus on in each other in order to build a culture of honor?
• At the close of the service, Phil reminded us that friendship flourishes at the fountain of forgiveness. How does this reminder connect to the theme of humility found in Paul’s letter to the Philippians?

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 next steps toward Jesus.