Philippians 2:1-11 Small Group Discussion Questions/Context Info

Philippian Contextual Notes

The book of Philippians was written to one of Paul’s most successful churches. . . The teachings of Philippians all revolve around on question, what do you do when things are going well? This church was not plagued by problem after problem like the Corinthian church. . . Easier to fix problems, then to take a church to the next level. . . Don’t get me wrong, the Philippians had their share of stuff. There was disunity within the church from outside opposition who were causing problems. . . All churches have stuff, but this church was doing well. They were healthy. Their people were growing.

That’s probably why it is Paul’s favorite church. . . They have been extremely generous and supportive to Paul. . . You know how you know if a church likes you? They give you money! Paul actually took a good portion of this letter in Chapter 4 to thank them from their generosity.
Paul’s in prison at the time of writing (one of the Prison Epistles). . . Paul does not seem to be bothered by his imprisonment, nor has his ministry been hindered. . . Actually the exact opposite took place. He ministry thrived and grew. You would think that an imprisonment would shut Paul’s voice up, but he was able to use his experience in prison as a springboard for his ministry.

The theme of the letter is Joy (Epistle of Joy). Paul uses the word joy more times in Philippians than any of his other letters (Second to the Gospel of Luke).
The book of Philippians focuses on how a joyful person is suppose to respond to life.

Chapter 1: Paul describes the ministry he is carry on despite his imprisonment. Paul preached to the palace guards and Roman officials. Paul’s boldness despite his present circumstances inspired other Christians, even those who did not like Paul to preach the Gospel.

SMALL GROUP HANDOUT

Welcome
If money were no object, what would you do for the rest of your life?

Worship

Works
Take prayer requests. . . Pray for each other.

Word – Philippians 2:1-11
1. Observation—What are the characteristics of a Christian in vv. 1? Explain.
2. Observation—What are the Christian duties in vv. 2-4? Explain.
3. Observation – How does Paul describe the attitude of Christ in vv. 5-11? Explain.
4. Interpretation – What is the main point of Philippians 2:1-11?
5. Application – Describe a time when the Lord encouraged you, comforted you, brought you fellowship, showed you tenderness or compassion.
6. Application - What impact does that have on your relationship with God?
7. Application – What are some challenges for you with being like-minded with others?
8. Application – How does the humility of Jesus affect you?
9. Application – What one thing is the Lord challenging you to do as a result of this passage?

Final Word:
You haven’t loved somebody until you served them.
Don’t lord your position over anyone, but lower yourself to their position.
Serving is humility in action.
The humblest people make the best servants.