This week of our “Unshackled” series on Philippians focuses on the call from Philippians 2:12-30 to shine like stars and two examples of joyful service in Timothy and Epaphroditus.
Sermon Outline
“Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” (Philippians 2:15-16)
Working Out a Life of Joy (2:12-13)
- The obedience of salvation
- Our work and God’s work
Living with Increasing Joy (2:13-18)
- Joy beyond grumbling
- Joy that holds the word of life
- Joy that overflows to others
Two Examples: Timothy and Epaphroditus (2:19-30)
- Timothy: the joyful worker
- Epaphroditus: the joyful sufferer
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Who do you know that lives with true joy? What about them makes you say that?
- As we continue our series “Unshackled: Joy Beyond Circumstances” this weekend, we are studying Philippians 2:12-30. Take a moment to pray, asking God to grow you through His Word. Next, whether on your own or with others, read that portion of Scripture aloud.
- Paul begins this section by reminding his readers of his exhortation to live in a manner worthy of the gospel (1:27-30). What does Paul tell us about the interplay between obedience and salvation in 2:12-13?
- Grumbling and complaining seem pretty mundane, but Paul ties our everyday attitudes and words in with the proclamation of the good news in Jesus in 2:14-18. Behind this are Paul’s references to the grumbling of the Israelites (Exodus 16:12) and the prophetic words of Daniel (Daniel 12:3). How is all of this tied into Paul’s passion for Christ to be proclaimed (Philippians 1:18, 21)?
- How quick are you to turn toward complaining in your life? What is one way that you could turn complaining into something positive this week?
- Paul then talks of his two companions, Timothy (2:19-24) and Epaphroditus (2:25-30), and their planned visits to Philippi. What stands out to you about these two men? Why do you think Paul brings them up here?
- If the Apostle Paul were to write about your life, what would he say? What might be oneway you could grow as an example of humble service for the gospel?
- What is one thing God is speaking to you through this study? If you are on your own, write it down and pray about it. If you are in a small group, take time to discuss this with one another before praying together.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize Philippians 2:12-13 this week. Read it daily to help.
- Take Paul’s encouragement in Philippians 2:14 seriously by entering into a 30-day challenge of no complaining. Stop yourself every time you complain and replace the complaining with something positive.
- Read more about Timothy and Epaphroditus.