08 May 2022 (am) – Philippians 3:1-3
 | Andy Bruins preaching from Philippians on Sunday 8th May 2022. |
Chapter 3 begins with the command, “Rejoice in the Lord”. And in fact the theme of joy is a constant drum-beat throughout this letter. Despite the fact that the author is in chains awaiting sentence (1:17) and his recipients are being persecuted (1:29-30), Paul is insistent that joy should characterise the lives of all true believers.
Q What are some of the ways that people in our world pursue happiness?
Q What is the difference between Christian joy (3:1, 4:4) and the happiness found in this world?
Q Read v1-3. What is the source of Christian joy? Why is it possible to be Joyful even in the midst of suffering?
(Look up Romans 5:3-5, 1 Peter 1:6-9 and James 1:2-4)
Q In v2 Paul tells the Philippians to beware of “the dogs”! Who is he talking about? Why does he describe them the way he does? How are they a threat to true Christian joy?
Q In v3 Paul contrasts these “evil doers” with those who are true disciples. How are we different? How are these things foundational to Christian joy?
Q What things can we do so that we become more joyful people?
