Working Your Way to the Bottom: The Path to True Life in the Midst of Struggles

Sermon Notes:

1. Struggles are a sign that you’re on the right (Philippians 1:27-30)
2. When things are difficult and we face opposition, we need to come together in mutual love and avoid the tendency to focus on ourselves. (Philippians 2:1-4)
3. Our role model is Jesus Christ, who faced struggles, opposition, and suffering and put others before Himself. (Philippians 2:5-8)
4. When we adopt His mindset and not the one of the world around us, we find ourselves on the path to true life, joy, and significance. (Philippians 2:9-11)

Follow-up Questions from Sunday:

Getting to Know You:

Who do you think was the most selfless person you ever met?

Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?

Digging Deeper:

1. Read Philippians 1:28-30. When we choose to follow Jesus in this world, we are guaranteed to receive opposition. Paul uses the word “granted” in verse 29 as though it is a privilege to suffer for Jesus.  Do you think it is a privilege to suffer in this world for Jesus?  Why or why not?
2. Read Philippians 2:1-2. Why is it important, when we struggle and face suffering and opposition, that we come together? What kind of encouragement have you received from fellowship with other Christians?
3. Read Philippians 2:3-4. How does this passage challenge society’s definition of success? How do you balance “looking out for the interests of others” with your own interests? How do you think humility differs from being a doormat?
4. Read Philippians 2:5-8. What do these amazing verses reveal to us about the nature and existence of Jesus?
5. In Philippians 2:7, Paul writes that Jesus “made himself nothing” (NIV) or “emptied himself” (NASB). Paul doesn’t explain how God can become a man and still remain God, but Jesus did it. What do you think it means that He “emptied Himself”? What do you think it was like for Jesus to leave heaven and become human?
6. Read Hebrews 2:9-10, John 15:12-13. Why did Jesus become human? How is this the greatest expression of love imaginable? How does it encourage you?
7. Read Philippians 2:9-11. Through humility, self-denial, and obedience, Christ achieved sovereignty over all peoples and things.  As His follower, what do you think you achieve through humility, self-denial, and obedience?
8. When you picture all people kneeling before Christ one day, who do you most look forward to seeing?

Taking it Home:

What is one specific way you can imitate Christ’s humility this coming week and how can this group remember you in prayer?