Sample Discussion Questions

Sermon: Philippians 1: Colony of Joy (7/3/22)

Sermon recap: The Apostle Paul, a prisoner in Rome, writes a letter to the Philippian church full of abounding Joy. How is Paul so filled with Joy even as he sits in prison, possibly awaiting his own death? Paul has found Joy in the promise of new life, new purpose, and new family in Jesus Christ, and he’s so overjoyed by the work Jesus has done in his life and in the world around him, that even the most difficult situations cannot rob him of his Joy. If we learn to find Joy in the small, daily inconveniences then, like Paul, we’ll be able to find Joy when the true storms of life come our way.

Weekly Rhythm:

1. Check-In (10-15min)
2. Discussion Questions (25-30min)
3. Prayer (10-15min)

Discussion Questions:

1. What vacation or big trip (either as a child or as an adult) did you enjoy the most? Why?
2. Do you tend to be an “emotionally expressive” person, or are you more reserved? Do you share your emotions often and easily or do you keep them more contained?
3. Do you think it’s easier to get really excited or really frustrated? Why?
4. Sometimes we can let the smallest things rob us of our Joy. What are some things that tend to put you in a bad mood or rob your Joy? Have you ever had a great day ruined by something small? (hint: this isn’t intended as a time to complain and air your grievances, but as a confession of things that steal Joy from you)
5. What practices or habits can help us keep our minds focused on the Joy of Jesus, rather than the inconveniences and frustrations of daily life?