Sermon Discussion: The Gospel-Centered Life (Part 2): A Clear Sign

Sermon Discussion: The Gospel-Centered Life (Part 2): A Clear Sign

The Gospel-Centered Life (part 2)

The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon from April 16, “The Gospel-Centered Life (part 2)” (Phil 1:27–30). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups, family devotions, or for personal reflection. (Link to PDF)

Main Idea: Faith in Jesus and suffering for Jesus are divine gifts that demonstrate you truly belong to Jesus. [That you are a citizen of kingdom of heaven].

Sermon Outline:

  • Understand the foundation of you Gospel Citizenship (1:29a)
  • Understand the two-fold nature of Gospel Citizenship (1:29b)
  • Embrace the Evangelistic Implications of your Gospel Suffering (1:29b–30)

Discussion Questions:

1. Short Review of Phil 1:27–28

a. What picture/concept is behind the phrase, “let your manner of life” (Cf. Phil 3:20–21)?
b. What does a “worthy church” look like? Hint: One action, two manifestations (Phil 1:27b–28a).
c. What is this “clear sign” from God? (Phil 1:28b)
d. What does this “clear sign” proclaim to the world? (Phil 1:28b)

2. How does Phil 1:29 help us understand “how” faithful, fearless, unified gospel ministry in the face of opposition is indeed a supernatural sign from God? (If you need help with this, the following prompts may help)

a. What does the conjunction “for” at the beginning of Phil 1:29 tell us about the relationship between verses 27–28 and 29–30?
b. Who is the granting (or graciously and freely giving) in verse 29a?
c. What two things are granted to every Christian for the sake of Christ?

3. What kind of suffering does Paul have in mind?

4. How does this kind of suffering function as a sign from God of judgment and salvation (Phil 1:29)?

a. John 15:18–19
b. Luke 12:51–53
c. 1 Thessalonians 2:13–14
d. 2 Timothy 1:12

Application:
1. Share a time in the past where you willingly identified with Jesus even though you knew it would not be popular?

2. Read Hebrews 11:32–38 and identify the possible repercussions of standing for Jesus.

3. How can the truth that, faith in Jesus and suffering for Jesus are divine gifts that demonstrate you truly belong to Jesus encourage you to stand for Jesus when you would prefer to remain in the shadows?

  • Matthew 10:16–25
  • Hebrews 10:32–34

4. How would you counsel a friend who was reluctant to identify themselves as a Christian in the workplace because Christians get the worst assignments and are never allowed into the inner circle?

5. What kind of fears are preventing you from embracing the evangelistic implications of your salvation?

6. In what ways does the gospel empower you to overcome this fear so that you can stand in faith?