Philippians 3:20-4:9 // A Gracious Resistance

Covenant member, Stef, shares a message about the importance of resistance in the Christian life. From Philippians 3:20-4:9, we find timely and practical instruction for us all. To support The Vine, go to www.thevineaustin.org/give DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. What stood out to you this week from the readings and/or the sermon? 2. Read Philippians 3:18 - 4:9 and notice what the word “therefore” is connecting. What do imagine was going on in the Philippian church? Without disparaging a church, have you ever witnessed or experienced the painfulness of escalating disagreements in a church setting? What did it feel like? What was the outcome? 3. In v. 4-7, Paul is asking the church to resist damaging escalations of conflict. From the sermon, resistance comes from: More Joy - Less Worry – Prayer – Gratefulness - Realizing God’s nearness. Which of these have you embraced successfully in the past, and how did it change you? Which one would you like to grow more toward? 4. In v. 8-9, Paul doubles down on the things to keep at the forefront of our minds. Without bypassing reality, what are practical ways to focus on these things while in the midst of a world where there is no lack of negativity, fear and insecurity? 5. Practice for the week. Whether in this group or within your family/friends, ask these two questions: Where did you see God’s goodness today? Where did you add to God’s goodness today?