Philippians 3:17-4:1
Jesus didn’t come to earth to play politics,
He had a much bigger agenda in mind.
Introduction:
Jesus isn’t interested in joining any political parties or following any political
agendas. He is looking for followers to join His agenda and change the world.
Starting Out:
Why do you think talking about politics brings out so much anger in some people?
Following up:
Did you find any ways to be more available, more attentive, or more generous with
your oikos this week?
Philippians 3:17-4:1:
1. Is there any part of this passage that is hard for you to understand?
2. What about Paul’s life was worth imitating? (v.17)
3. What traits or evidence mark spiritual maturity? HINT: See Romans 12:9-21
4. Who are walking “as enemies of the cross of Christ”? (v.18)
5. What are the “earthly things” in verse 19?
6. If we are Christians, where is our true citizenship? (v.20)
7. What does it mean to have a “glorious body” like Christ’s? (v.21)
8. Why does Paul refer to the Philippian believers as his “joy and crown”? (v.1)
9. What do you think it means to “stand firm” in the Lord? (v.1)
Taking It Home:
10. Would you tell others to follow your example like Paul did?
11. Are you prone to placing your hope in “earthly” things such as politics?
12. What are some things that keep you from fully embracing your citizenship of
heaven?
Emphasis on Oikos:
13. If the people in your oikos are constantly upset about the politics of this world,
they need to see that politics aren’t the answer to any of life’s problems. How can
you be their GPS (God Pointing System) and help them “recalculate” their route?
Other Scriptures to engage with this week:
Acts 22:1-21 • 2 Peter 3:1-18 • 1 Corinthians 4:14-21 • 1 Peter 2:4-10 • Psalm 143 • Proverbs 29:1-27