Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16

Transcription

1 fellowship continue work Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 6BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 1 September 18, 2012 God s not done with you yet! Have you ever felt like you had finally messed up to the point where God must be done with you? You strive to walk in righteousness, but fall short of His glory time and time again. You want to make a difference for His kingdom, but feel like you aren t accomplishing anything of value. In this first passage, Paul wants you to know that God is not done with you yet; and He never will be. God UbeganU a good work in you when He led you to faith in Jesus Christ, and Paul writes that he is confident (fully assured) that what God has started, He is more than able to Ucomplete U. The fellowship we share in the Gospel is about God s ongoing work in and through our lives, and God Uwill U that work until the day of Jesus Christ (Christ s return). Since it is UGod s U (v.6) and God s grace (v.7) that will accomplish it, our calling is to just Uremain in fellowship with HimU and trust that He will complete what He has begun. Passage: Philippians 1:3-7 Key Scripture: Philippians 1:5-6 0BScripture: Philippians 1:3-5 What does Paul express thankfulness and joy for as he remembers the Philippian church? 1BScripture: Philippians 1:6a What does it say for Uyour U with God when Paul says that God has only begun to work in the Philippians, (meaning there is still a lot of work to do), and yet expresses joy and thanks for them in verses1-2? 2BScripture: Philippians 1:6b How can you walk in confidence even in the midst of the disappointment that comes when you fall short in your life in Christ?

2 work us part us 3BScripture: Hebrews 12:1-4 Faith will see us through our failures; faith in the faithfulness of God to complete what He has begun in us. What does Paul exhort us to do at the end of verse 1 so that Jesus can finish His work in us? How can we do what it says (see v.2a)? 4BScripture: Philippians 1:7 Our fellowship in the Gospel is twofold; God works Uin U (v.6) so He can also work Uthrough U (v.7). Both are what make up a fellowship in the Gospel. What must we be partakers with Paul in if we are to be used by God for the Gospels sake? 5BScripture: Ephesians 4:11-13 What part does our fellowship with each other have in God s work of completing us? Group Discussion Personal Application Read John 14:12-24 & 15:1-8. What is Uour U in this fellowship with God if it s UHis U in and through us? Talk about what it means to abide in Christ, and how it applies to this week s lesson. What can you take away from the lesson that will help you when the enemy attacks you with doubt and condemnation? Memory Verse Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6

3 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 5BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 2 September 25, 2012 The Fruits of Righteousness Now that he has expressed his confidence that God will complete His work in them, Paul prays that the Philippians will pursue that end with an abounding (increasing) love for the things of God. Not for the purpose of lording it over others with the knowledge they gain, but from a sincere heart that seeks a deeper understanding of God s Word and a greater discernment of the ways of the Spirit so that they might grow in righteousness for the glory and praise of God. Is this UyourU prayer when you come before God, or do you seek for earthly treasures rather than spiritual ones? Do you have a sincere desire (pure, not hypocritical) to grow in the Spirit so that the world may see your good works and glorify your heavenly Father (Matt. 5:16)? If not, ask God right now to give you a heart of love for the things of His kingdom and to work in you the fruits of righteousness. Then make it your determined purpose to pursue it as your highest priority in life. Passage: Philippians 1:8-11 Key Scripture: Philippians 1:11 0BScripture: Philippians 1:9; Ephesians 1:17-18 What does Paul want our love to abound in according to Philippians 1:9? What is the object of this type of abounding love (see also Ephesians 1:17-18)? 1BScripture: Philippians 1:10 When we pursue the knowledge and understanding ( discernment ) of God and His ways, what are we showing the world we think about the things of God in verse10a? How are we to pursue this spiritual growth or maturity, and for how long in verse 10b?

4 2BScripture: 2 Peter 1:2-9 We know that God has given to us everything that pertains to life and godliness. How do we partake of what He has given in verse 3, and when we do, what do we gain in verse 2? 3BScripture: 2 Timothy 2:22-26 What is the tendency in relationships when we pursue knowledge for the sake of showing how much we know in verse 23? How can it benefit others when we pursue knowledge for spiritual growth and a righteous character in Christ in verses 25-26? 4BScripture: Philippians 1:11 How do we gain the fruits of righteousness, and for what purpose? Group Discussion Personal Application What is it you desire and pray for the most for your life? Is your priority spiritual growth and a righteous character? Do you pursue them with all your heart, soul and mind? Does your life reflect an abounding (ever increasing) love for the things of God? Talk about what you can do to change the priorities of your life, or share the work God has already been doing to help you focus on these areas. How big a part can prayer play in spiritual growth, both for you and for others? At the end of the group time, pray for each other as Paul has prayed for the Philippians in the first 2 passages of the year. Memory Verse As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness. Psalm 17:15

5 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 5BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 3 October 9, 2012 A Heavenly Perspective As God does His good work in us, and we continue to grow spiritually, our perspective and the priorities of our life will be turned around. No longer will our main interest be our comfort or our glory, but God s purposes and His glory. In this weeks passage, Paul s attitude toward his circumstances serves as an example of this changed perspective to all believers. Though he finds himself in prison, a circumstance that many used against him, he didn t let it change what he was all about. For Paul wasn t so much concerned with his comfort or personal reputation, but on his calling from God; the furtherance of the Gospel. Is your world view an earthly one (temporal), or are you heavenly (eternally) minded? Do you get consumed by the difficult circumstances of your life, or can you say with Paul, my chains are in Christ? The tribulations of our life have a way of revealing where are priorities are. Let this week s passage reveal to you where UyourU treasure is. If it s not Jesus Christ and His Gospel, ask God to change your heart so you will begin to see your circumstances as an opportunity to further the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Passage: Philippians 1:12-18 Key Scripture: Philippians 1:12, 18 0BScripture: Philippians 1:12-13 Rather than seeing himself as a prisoner of the palace guard and of Rome, Paul s perspective is that he is chained to Jesus Christ? What does this view of himself help him to do, even in such difficult circumstances in verse12? 1BScripture: 2 Corinthians 5:1-8 In this passage, Paul takes earthly tribulation to the ultimate; death. What perspective does he give in verses1-2 that would help us in Uany U circumstance, if we could just make it our own? What will it require of us to be able to face even death this way (v.7)?

6 life 2BScripture: Philippians 1:14 What affect did Paul s godly response to his situation have on those who followed him? What do you think it does to others, then, when they see us fall apart when we are hit with some trial? 3BScripture: Philippians 1:15-18 What were the two very different motives behind others following Paul s example of boldly proclaiming the Gospel? 4BScripture: Philippians 1:18 Did Paul care that some acted out of personal animosity toward him? What was Paul s priority in it all? Group Discussion Personal Application Have you been more concerned with your worldly comfort, or what others think of you, than with the furtherance of the Gospel? Have you allowed your circumstances to overwhelm you and distract you from the true purpose of your life; to glorify Jesus Christ? Troubles in life are real, but how can we keep from letting them consume us so that our response to our circumstances can glorify God and inspire others? What changes can you make in your Udaily U to help you be more heavenly minded so that when trials come, you won t come unglued? Memory Verse But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the futherance of the gospel Philippians 1:12

7 Christ, Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 5BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 4 October 16, 2012 The crucified life Paul was not afraid to die physically, because he had already crucified self for the sake of the Gospel. He wasn t concerned about being delivered from his circumstances, but from anything that would cause shame to the name of Jesus. To Paul, whether he lived or he died, he was the Lords. His desire was that when people looked at him, and the way he lived, they would not see Paul, but Christ in Him. Is it also your earnest expectation and hope that Jesus would be magnified in your body? When people look at your life, do they see Jesus? As you study and pray over this passage, ask God to show you how to live the crucified life, so that you can say with Paul, For me, to live Uis U and to die is gain. Passage: Philippians 1:19-21 Key Scripture: Philippians 1:20 0BScripture: John 3:22-30 John the Baptist had drawn a lot of attention in his ministry; thousands and thousands of people had come from all over to hear him preach and to be baptized by him. Yet when Jesus finally came on the scene, John did not compete with Him for attention. What was John s response when his disciples reported that everyone was going to Jesus to be baptized? 1BScripture: Psalm 34:1-3 It was said of David that he was a man after God s own heart. For him, too, it was all about God. What three things does David say he will do to magnify the Lord in verses 1-2? How often does he say he will do them?

8 2BScripture: Galatians 2:20; Luke 9:23 What does Paul say has to happen if Jesus is to live in and through our lives (Galatians 2:20)? What does Jesus say we must do on a daily basis in order to follow Him (Luke 9:23)? 3BScripture: Philippians 1:20 What was Paul s earnest expectation and hope for his life and what does he indicate he would feel if it did not happen? What do you feel when your actions do not magnify the Lord in your body? 4BScripture: Philippians 1:19 What two things does Paul remind us we all need if we are to live a life that magnifies Jesus and doesn t bring shame to His name? Group Discussion Personal Application Paul reveals a single-minded focus for his life; one that does not consider self, but looks only to magnify the Lord. His greatest fear is that he will shame the name of Jesus. Does it shame you when you act or talk in a way that doesn t magnify Jesus? Talk in your groups about what it will take to crucify the flesh and live only for the glory of God. How important is prayer and dependence on the Spirit in all of this? Save time at the end of the group discussion to break off in pairs and pray for the supply of the Spirit in your brother s life. Memory Verse I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. Romans 12:1

9 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 4BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 5 October 23, 2012 Long for Jesus, live for others For Paul, life was all about Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:21). He was so passionate in his love for Jesus that the greatest desire he had was to depart this world and be with Christ forever. At the same time, he could see that there was a great need for him UtoU remain in the flesh. Knowing that his labor would bear fruit in the lives of others, and so bring glory to God, Paul was willing to postpone his own personal gain so that others might grow in their faith and in the joy of the Lord. Paul shows us by his example the fruit that will come from a life that has truly surrendered all for Jesus Christ. There will be an earnest desire for the presence of Jesus Christ and a sacrificial love for others. Has God brought you to this place in your walk with Him? Do you love to be with Jesus above all else, and do you desire others to know the fullness of that love also? Ask the Holy Spirit to draw you into an ever deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, so that a longing for His presence and a love for the welfare of others would continue to grow in your heart. Passage: Philippians 1:22-26 Key Scripture: Philippians 1: BScripture: Philippians 1:23-24 What two things was Paul hard-pressed between? How did he describe his desire to depart to be with Christ in verse 23? What did he say about remaining in verse 24? 1BScripture: Matthew 22:36-39 What does Jesus name as the two great commandments? Is Paul obedient to these commands of Jesus, based on what we read in this week s passage? Are you loving the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength?

10 2BScripture: Matthew 20:28 As God completes His work in us, we will become more and more like Him. What trait of Jesus does Paul manifest by his willingness to postpone the joy of heaven in order to labor for the progress and joy of faith in others? 3BScripture: Philippians 1:25 Paul shows that for him to live is Christ by what he intends to occupy himself with if he remains. What does Paul intend to labor for? Group Discussion Personal Application What is it that motivates your life? Do you hunger for the presence of Jesus Christ above all else? How can you satisfy that hunger in this life until the day you are with Him in heaven forever? Do you love others enough to want them to have the joy of knowing Jesus, or know Him better? Who are the people God has placed in your life (at home, work, or play), and how can you labor for their progress and joy of faith? Memory Verse For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. Philippians 1:23-24

11 as Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 5BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 6 November 6, 2012 Conduct worthy of the gospel of Christ Paul exhorts the church to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, and in no way to be terrified by the opposition they will face for living according to their faith. This message is even more appropriate for us today as we see the faith attacked from every possible direction, and recognize that the Lord must be returning very soon. So there is little time left for being a closet Christian, afraid of what others might say or do because you choose to live what you believe. Now is the Utime to stand fast & strive together U one for the faith of the gospel. After all, Paul reminds us, it is the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16), and any opposition we face from others is simply proof of their perdition (destruction) and our salvation (Phil. 1:28). Ask God to baptize you in the power of the Holy Spirit so that you can boldly stand and contend with all believers for the truth of the gospel, so that many more might be rescued from the destruction to come and know the love of God as we do. Passage: Philippians 1:27-30 Key Scripture: Philippians 1:27 0BScripture: Philippians 1:27 How does Paul describe conduct that is worthy of the gospel? 1BScripture: Philippians 1:28 When we are confronted by adversaries to the faith, we shouldn t be terrified. What reason does Paul give for this, and why should knowing it give us confidence to share our faith? 2BScripture: Philippians 1:29 What has also been granted by God to those who believe in verse 29?

12 believe 3BScripture: Matthew 5:14-16 Many are too timid to contend ( strive ) for their faith in the face of the typical opposition/persecution that comes from it. What does this passage have to say about the idea of a closet Christian? 4BScripture: 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 3:18 What does 2 Timothy 3:12 say we can expect when we choose to live godly? What example does Jesus set in 1 Peter 3:18? Why was He willing to suffer, and how can we use this to help us when we are persecuted for our faith? Group Discussion Personal Application Do you face opposition to your faith in the workplace, or even with your families? When others boldly speak out what Uthey U about life, and it contradicts what you know to be true according to the gospel, do you speak up? Do you feel terrified at the thought of contending for the faith? What have you learned from this week s lesson that can help you be bolder in your faith? Talk about how you can approach opportunities to share the truth and do it in a way that isn t confrontational, but worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray together for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, so that you might be able to be witnesses of Jesus Christ to the world around you. Memory Verse For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation to everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. Romans 1:16

13 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 4BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 7 November 13, 2012 Fulfill My Joy In the last passage, Paul reminds us that suffering in this world is a part of a true believers life. If we would live godly in this Godless world, we will suffer. However, he reminds us in verse 1 of chapter 2 that with the battle we have also have great blessings in Christ. Now Paul asks us to fulfill (complete) his joy by being like-minded in how we live together as the body of Christ; having the same love, being of one accord, one mind. It is a call to a humble attitude that must result in selfless action. Have you been letting your adversaries (the flesh, the world and the devil) cause you to become too UselfU-absorbed? We can find joy in the midst of the battle by seeing all that we have in Christ. But our joy will never be complete if we live for selfish ambition or conceit, only as we look to the interests of others. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you get your mind off your own troubles, and open your eyes to where He would use you to minister His love to others. Passage: Philippians 2:1-4 Key Scripture: Philippians 2:2 0BScripture: Philippians 2:1 What are the four motivations/incentives given in verse 1 that should strengthen us in our own battles, as well as encourage others in Christ? 1BScripture: Philippians 2:2 What does Paul say would fulfill his joy and what are the three ways this will be expressed? Based on the wording of this verse, what one word would you use to describe what Paul desires for the church?

14 2BScripture: Philippians 2:3 What attitude toward others does Paul want us to share in common? What wrong motives, mentioned in this verse, would destroy the unity we have in Christ? 3BScripture: Philippians 2:4 What action does Paul say will result if we have the humble attitude expressed in verse 4? Group Discussion Personal Application Notice that Paul says that a man should look out not UONLYU for his UownU interests in verse 3. This presumes we UdoU look out for our interests Uto a degreeu; just not with selfish ambition or conceit (2:2). How can being strengthened by the blessings of verse 1 UindividuallyU help us in looking out for the interests of others? What would it mean to the whole body of Christ if we were like-minded about Philippians 2:3-4? As a body of believers, what practical things can we do to look out for each other as it relates to the battle we all face, as well as the blessings that we share in Christ? Memory Verse Therefore, if any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, of one accord, one mind. Philippians 2:1-2

15 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 4BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 8 January 15, 2013 Having the mind of Christ Paul commands us to have the mind (attitude) which was also in Christ Jesus. Jesus humbled Himself, laying aside His prerogatives as God, and obeyed the Father s will even to the point of death. When we humble ourselves (become totally dependent on God) and obey Him in all things (total surrender to His will), then we exalt the name of Jesus to the world around us. If Jesus, being God, emptied Himself, what could He possibly ask us to lay aside that would be too much? If Jesus obeyed His Father even to death on the cross, what would be too much for us to sacrifice to obey His will? In this passage, Paul teaches us that we are to exalt Jesus in our hearts by having His attitude of humility and obedience to the Father. Only then will we know the exaltation of the abundant life in Jesus Christ. Do you feel something lacking in your Christian experience? Do you hunger for the abundant life Jesus came to give (John 10:10)? Then you need to look and see if something is lacking in your commitment to complete dependence on God and total surrender to His will. Passage: Philippians 2:5-11 Key Scripture: Philippians 2:5 0BScripture: Philippians 2:6-7 Andrew Murray defined humility as that place of total dependence on God. What did Jesus do that that exemplifies that attitude? Are you totally dependent on God in your daily life or do you do things your own way, on your own strength? 1BScripture: Philippians 2:8 Did Jesus hold anything back? To what extent did He go in His humility and obedience?

16 we 2BScripture: Philippians 2:9 What did God do as a result of Christ s total surrender of Himself to the Father? 3BScripture: 1 Peter 5:6-7 What does Peter say God will do when we humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, according to verse 6? What does verse 7 say about Uhow U humble ourselves, and why we can do it with absolute faith? Group Discussion Personal Application Do you desire a deeper, richer life in Christ? What has this weeks lesson taught you about the need to exalt Jesus in your own heart if you are to experience that? What are the areas of your life that you have not surrendered control over to God yet? What disobedience are you still holding on to that might be holding you back from enjoying the abundant life Jesus came to give? Take time to pray for one another, asking the Holy Spirit to do a new work of love in your hearts, so that you might come to that place of total surrender to God. Pray that Jesus Christ would be exalted in your lives like never before. Memory Verse Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. James 4:10

17 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 4BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 9 January 22, 2013 Work out what God has worked in Paul calls us to not take our salvation lightly, but in awe and reverence we are to obey the One who alone is responsible for our salvation. We are saved because Jesus Christ, the One who is above every name, the Lord of all, humbled Himself on the cross in total obedience to the Father. It is that work of Christ in us that changes us day by day as we obey what He speaks to us through His Word. How can we UnotU obey Him with fear and trembling, for we owe Him everything! As we consider the length that a holy God went to redeem sinful man, let us make it our determined purpose to work out what He continues to work in us, so that we might shine as lights in the world. Allow the Holy Spirit to transform your attitudes and actions as you obey what He speaks into your life in awe of His goodness and grace, and out of love for all that He has done for you. Passage: Philippians 2:12-18 Key Scripture: Philippians 2: BScripture: Philippians 2:5-12 Verse 12 begins with a therefore which points us back to the previous passages; how does this passage connect with the previous verses on how we should imitate Christ s humility? How does Christ s obedience in verse 5-11 help you in your struggle to live a life that reflects the salvation you have received from God? 1BScripture: Philippians 2:12; 2:5-11 When Paul says we are to work out our salvation in verse 12, he doesn t mean we can save ourselves by our works. According to verse 13, what are we working out into our daily lives and why?

18 if 2BScripture: Philippians 2:14-15 God is at work in us to do for His good pleasure. What will we not Udo U we are obedient to what He works in us, according to verse 14? What intent of God s will be served when we are obedient in this (see v. 15)? 3BScripture: Philippians 2:16a How does God work in us, and what must we do if God s inner work of salvation is to be worked out in our daily lives (sanctification)? Group Discussion Personal Application Salvation is a work only God can do. Sanctification is a process we must partake in. What has this weeks passage taught you about the importance of getting God s Word in you on a daily basis (see v.13) and doing what He speaks to you through it? Share a testimony of the difference you have seen in some circumstance of your life when you were determined to obey what God spoke to you, no matter what. Memory Verse Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you to will and to do for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12-13

19 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 5BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 10 February 5, 2013 A Pastor s Heart Paul tells the Philippians that he is sending Timothy to them because he knows Timothy has a sincere concern for their state (spiritual condition), just as Paul himself does. He is confident that Timothy will judge their state based on the things which are of Christ Jesus; Unot looking for his own gain U, but sincerely (genuinely) caring about where they are in their relationship with Jesus. Do you minister to others in this way, based on the will and the truth of Jesus Christ, or do you merely tell people what they want to hear so they will think well of you? Do you minister to others for your own glory, or that they might draw closer to God in their own walk? Do you have a Pastor s heart for those God has placed in your life? Allow this week s passage to reveal your own heart as we see the characteristics of one who has a Pastor s heart for others. Pray that God would continue His work in you, so that you will not only work out your own salvation, but have a sincere concern for the state of others in Christ. Passage: Philippians 2:19-24 Key Scripture: Philippians 2:21 0BScripture: Philippians 2:19 Why was Paul sending Timothy to the Philippians church? What was going to determine whether he was going to send Timothy to them, according to verse 19a? How do these things reveal the heart of a pastor in Paul? 1BScripture: Philippians 2:20 The word likeminded means is having a similar or identical opinion. In what way were Paul and Timothy like-minded (what characteristic did they share)?

20 2BScripture: Philippians 2:21 If we have a pastors heart, what will be our point of reference (or purpose) when we minister to others? What do you think it means by seek their own in this verse as it relates to serving others? 3BScripture: Philippians 2:22-23 Why could Paul be confident in sending Timothy in his place? How had Timothy proven himself to Paul? 4BScripture: Philippians 2:24 In whom did Paul place his trust? How is this applicable to us in our lives today? Group Discussion Personal Application Read 2 Timothy 2:22-26: Talk about the characteristics listed in the passage that reveal a pastors (or servants) heart; traits that were certainly part of Timothy s proven character. Which ones relate to our heart for God, and which ones relate to our heart for others? Are these traits manifested in your life right now? Are you seeking the things which are of Christ Jesus or do you seek your own (eternal things vs. temporal things; things above vs. things below)? Memory Verse For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:20-21

21 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 4BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 11 February 12, 2013 The completely committed Christian Paul now moves from Timothy to Epaphroditus in giving us examples of how to live the Christian life, or as Paul said, work out your salvation with fear and trembling. In Epaphroditus, we see a man who was fully committed to follow Christ s example of servanthood. Just as Jesus was willing to give Himself up for others, even unto death, Epaphroditus was ready to do the work of Christ without regarding his life (v.30). Can we say we are as committed to Jesus as Epaphroditus was? Let s look at how this passage describes the life of Epaphroditus and ask the Holy Spirit to continue His work in us until our Christian walk reflects this same kind of commitment and Christian character. Passage: Philippians 2:25-30 Key Scripture: Philippians 2:30 0BScripture: Philippians 2:25 What descriptions does Paul give for Epaphroditus that shows why he thinks he is a Christian that is worthy of esteem? 1BScripture: Philippians 2:26 Why did Paul think it was necessary (v.25) to send Epaphroditus to the Philippians, and what does the reason reveal of the character of Epaphroditus?

22 2BScripture: Philippians 2:29-30 Paul speaking of Epapphroditus to receive him with gladness and hold him in esteem shows what Paul thinks are the important qualities of a truly committed Christian. What does verse 30 say is the reason we should also esteem Epaphroditus? Are you willing to follow Christ to this degree in ALL things? 3BScripture: Matthew 16:24 What does this verse say we must do if we truly desire to follow Christ? How did Epaphroditus life line up with that? Give examples from this week s passage to back up your answer. Group Discussion Personal Application Do you desire to follow Jesus with your whole heart, fully committed to what He wants to do in and through your life? Are you tired of straddling the fence, so to speak? Talk about what changes you must make in your priorities and actions if you are to be a fully committed follower of Jesus Christ. One thing that must happen if your life is to change in this way is that you be baptized in the power of the Holy Spirit. This kind of life is impossible to achieve without it. At the end of the group time, pray for that baptism, KNOWING that this is God s will for you (see Acts 1:8). Memory Verse Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me. Philippians 2:29-30

23 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 6BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 12 February 26, 2013 Count all things loss Paul now gives us the key to the Christian life and all that he has been talking about in this letter. There can be no confidence in the flesh, in our own selfeffort. Anything that we have accomplished by our own strength we must count as rubbish. Paul tells us to make the knowledge of Christ Jesus Uour confidence and joy in this life U. If we would, then by the power of His resurrection we will be able to live according to His righteousness in this world and experience true joy in life. It s a call to deny self and follow Christ. What things of this world or deeds of the flesh are you still putting your confidence in? Can you say that fellowship with Jesus Christ is your greatest joy in life? If not, ask the Holy Spirit to show you what the fullness of God in your life can really be, so that you too will count all things as loss compared to the joy of knowing Jesus Christ. Passage: Philippians 3:1-11 Key Scripture: Philippians 3:8 0BScripture: Philippians 3:2-3 When Paul talks about dogs, evil workers and the mutilation in verse 2, he is talking about fleshly things. In contrast, what does he call believers to do in verse 3? 1BScripture: Philippians 3:5-7 What does Paul think about the impressive (humanly speaking) list of his religious accomplishments in verses 5-6? 2BScripture: Philippians 3:8 Paul is now willing to suffer the loss of all those things. What precious gain is he ready to count all things loss for?

24 3BScripture: Philippians 3:9-11 In verse 11, Paul is talking about living this life as one resurrected from the dead. How is that achieved, according to verse 9? What will we gain if this is true of us? 4BScripture: John 17:3 What is eternal life all about? 5BScripture: John 10:10 The enemy wants to steal, kill and destroy your joy in Christ. What does Jesus want for your life? Group Discussion Personal Application Talk about the things in your life that are taking priority over knowing Christ (of having a personal and powerful intimate fellowship with Him that brings confidence to your walk and true joy in your life). The Word says that where our treasure is that s where our heart will be. What can you do to strengthen your relationship with Jesus, so that He will become your only true treasure? What things in your life must you lose so Uthat you may gain Christ U? Memory Verse Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ. Philippians 3:8

25 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 4BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 13 March 5, 2013 Press toward the goal Paul likens the Christian walk to a race. Pressing toward the goal speaks of an athlete pushing on to the finish line. The goal of such a race is to win the prize, such as money or a trophy. For the believer, the prize is the upward call, a continual pursuit of knowing Jesus Christ more intimately and passionately. In fact, true maturity is when we take hold of this goal. Paul expresses the need for those who have reached that level of maturity to keep pressing on, and that God will reveal this truth to those who have not yet entered into the race. Jesus Christ has laid hold of you that you might know abundant life in Him. Have laid hold of this goal in your own life? Are you pressing on to spiritual maturity? Ask the Holy Spirit to open up your eyes and heart to all that God has made available to you in an ever-growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Passage: Philippians 3:12-16 Key Scripture: Philippians 3:14 0BScripture: Philippians 3:12 Paul realizes that he has not attained to all that Jesus Christ has laid hold of him for. What has Paul determined to do? Is this your heart? 1BScripture: Philippians 3:13 In order to lay hold of all God has for us, what must we do? What are the those things in your life that you need to forget in order to grow to maturity in Christ?

26 2BScripture: Philippians 3:14 What goal was Paul pressing on towards? What do you think it means to press on? 3BScripture: Philippians 3:15-16 Oftentimes, when we have grown some in the Lord, we act like we have arrived; or as Paul put it, that we have already attained. What does Paul say about that wrong attitude toward our Christian walk in verses15-16? Group Discussion Personal Application Paul mentions the phrase press on twice in these passages. He uses the illustration of an athlete (training and working hard daily) to describe the passionate pursuit of God in our daily lives. How are you straining and pressing on to continually grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ? What spiritual practices or training do you engage in to know God more in your life? Are you passionately pursuing this prize? Memory Verse I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14

27 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 5BCalvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 14 March 19, 2013 Follow a godly pattern for your life What do you pattern your life after? Do you set your mind on earthly things, and the appetites of the flesh, or do you set your mind on things above (Colossians 3:2) and hunger for your true home in heaven? Though we are not to follow man, Paul teaches that it is wise to follow the example of godly men of the past and the present. These are men who follow Paul s admonition in 2 Corinthians 4:18 to not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. These men love the cross of Christ and willingly bear it as their own. This is the only pattern worth following. Is this the kind of example you admire and follow? Are you living the same way the world does, or do you live as a citizen of heaven? Ask the Spirit of God to reveal any part of your walk that does not line up with His kingdom that you might stand fast in the Lord. Passage: Philippians 3:17-4:1 Key Scripture: Philippians 3:17 0BScripture: Philippians 3:17 Whose pattern does Paul say we should use as an example? 1BScripture: Philippians 3:18-19 How does Paul describe the pattern of the worldly man? What is the end of those who follow that example?

28 2BScripture: Colossians 3:2-3; Philippians 3:19-20a 3BThe ungodly set their minds on earthly things (v.19). If we follow a godly pattern, where will our minds be set (Colossians 3:2)? Why should this be our focus (Philippians 3:20a)? 4BScripture: Ephesians 2:4-6; Philippians 3:20-21 Spiritually speaking, when God made us alive together with Christ, where did He make us sit together in Him (Ephesians 2:6)? As men whose citizenship is in heaven then, what does Philippians 3:20 say we should be eagerly waiting for? What do you think that means (based on what verse 21a says)? Group Discussion Personal Application Paul teaches that it is wise to follow men who so walk, referring back to what he has been talking about in this Epistle. Do you have godly examples you try to follow in your own pursuit of God? What are the kinds of qualities you admire in a man? What are the godly qualities you should be looking for and copying based on the ungodly ones Paul mentions in verses18 & 19? Memory Verse For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20

29 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 Calvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 15 March 26, 2013 Peace within the Church No matter how hard we try to walk in the unity Paul has described in this Letter, conflicts will still arise at times. The issue isn t so much that conflicts happen, but how we as Christians deal with them when they do. A conflict obviously existed between Euodia and Syntyche who Paul implores to be of one mind. He then goes on to reveal how we in the church can resolve or even avoid conflicts; the peace of God. Proving we are right should never be the priority of a Spirit-filled Christian. Instead, we should strive for peace with our brothers and sisters in Christ. When we are at odds with each other, it is a sure sign that our harmony with the Lord is lacking. When we take everything to the Lord in prayer, with thanksgiving for all He has given to us, then the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds from the pride that drives conflicts. Are you experiencing ongoing conflict with those in the Body of Christ? Then it is pride, not peace that is operating in those relationships. Ask God to reveal where you are lacking in your fellowship with Him, so that peace might rule in your heart and in your relationships. Passage: Philippians 4:2-7 Key Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 Scripture: Philippians 4:1-2 In verse 2, Paul implores (to come alongside and plead) Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind. What do these words suggest about their relationship? Since verse 1 leads into this statement, what does it tell us is key to being in harmony with our brothers and sisters in Christ? Scripture: Philippians 4:3 Even as Paul urges his true companion to help in this situation, he gives the women two reminders of why they should be of the same mind and resolve the conflict between them. What are these two things that are a common bond between Euodia and Syntyche?

30 Scripture: Philippians 4:5; John 13:35 What do we want to show to be known to all men instead of conflict, according to Philippians 4:5? Why do we want to do this (see John 13:35)? Scripture: Philippians 4:6 What should we be doing on a regular basis as Christians to help us have peace in our relationships, rather than conflict? Scripture: Philippians 4:7 When our lives are saturated with prayer and thanksgiving, what does Paul promise it will give us, and what will having it do for us? Group Discussion Personal Application Many of us are anxious over the trials and tribulations of this life, and that can often cause our pride to rise up and cause conflicts with others. How can prayer in everything, with thankfulness, guard your heart and mind through Christ, and help you to walk in peace and not pride? How can you implement these two Christian virtues into your daily life, and why do you think they bring that peace of God into our relationships? Memory Verse Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

31 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 Calvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 16 April 9, 2013 A praiseworthy life Do you desire to live a life that is worthy of praise; worthy of the God of all praise? Then you must meditate on (v.8) and do (v.9) the things of God. For that which is truly praiseworthy must line up with God s Word. As you set your mind on things above, you can be confident that God will be with you, empowering you to do those things which are truly worthy of praise. As you study this passage, ask the Holy Spirit to impress on your heart the importance of meditating on things of the Spirit and not of the flesh. Passage: Philippians 4:8-9 Key Scripture: Philippians 4:8 Scripture: Philippians 4:8 Paul tells us to meditate on (ponder) anything praiseworthy. What are the praiseworthy things we should ponder according to verse 8? Scripture: Philippians 4:9 Paul tells us that it s not enough to just meditate on the things of God. What does he say about the things which you learned and received and heard and saw in him?

32 Scripture: 2 Peter 1:4-5 According to Peter, what is the reason we should add virtue to our faith (v.4)? Scripture: Philippians 4:9b What can we count on as we seek to align our thoughts and actions with the Word of God? Group Discussion Personal Application Discuss in your group the importance of what you meditate on as it pertains to how you live out your Christian life. What kind of struggles do you face with your thought life? What can you do to fight against unworthy thoughts so that the meditation of your heart will be acceptable to God and worthy of praise? Memory Verse I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways. Psalm 119:15

33 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 Calvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 17 April 16, 2013 Learning to be content In the different circumstances that you have faced, were you content or did you want more? Paul learned to be content in whatever state he found himself in this life. In this passage, he gives us the secret on how we too can be content in all the circumstances of our lives. Paul knew that the answer was in making the Lord his strength, and in aligning his priorities with the Lord. He could be content in the changing circumstances of his life because he kept his eyes on the Lord, and trusted Him to be his strength when things got tough. Ask the Lord to teach you how to be content as He did with Paul, and as He does, the joy of the Lord will be your strength. Passage: Philippians 4:10-13 Key Scripture: Philippians 4:13 Scripture: Philippians 4:10 In verse 10 we see the word rejoiced as we have seen throughout this Letter. Paul doesn t seem to stop having joy. What was Paul s joy in according to verse 10? Scripture: Philippians 4:17 In what way does verse 17 show that Paul s joy came from aligning his priorities with the Lord s will? Scripture: Philippians 4:11 Paul didn t rejoice because his need was met. Why didn t Paul speak in regard to his own need?

34 Scripture: Philippians 4:12 What had Paul learned to do in his circumstances because of the type of relationship he had with Jesus Christ? Scripture: Philippians 4:13 The NLT version of verse 11 says that Paul learned the secret to being content. What was the secret that Paul learned through the different circumstances of his life? Group Discussion Personal Application Many of us face different circumstances in our lives everyday. Some are good (as we see it), and some are hard. Paul experienced this himself, yet he didn t let them rob him of his joy and contentment in the Lord. How was Paul able to handle his circumstances this way? What can you learn from Paul about being content? What can you do to develop an attitude of contentment in all of your circumstances? Memory Verse: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

35 Men of the Word Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 Calvary Chapel South Bay Men s Ministry Lesson 18 April 16, 2013 God s riches Paul commends the Philippians for their giving, but is more excited about what they will receive as a result of their willingness to give sacrificially to the work of the Gospel. When we give to someone who is in distress or for the sake of the Gospel message, we receive back from God much more than we can ever sacrifice; eternal riches that far exceed any wealth the world can provide. Paul lets us know that the generous heart will abound in fruit, please God, and be able to experience a rich fellowship with Jesus Christ. If you haven t grown in your walk to the point where you abound in all these areas, ask God to reveal your attitude toward the riches of this world, and give you a hunger for the His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Passage: Philippians 4:14-23 Key Scripture: Philippians 4:19 Scripture: Philippians 4:14-15 What did the Philippians share in when they sent Paul financial aid (4:14)? They had also given support at an earlier time. What did their giving help Paul in doing (4:15)? Scripture: Philippians 4:17 Was Paul after the gift for his own needs? What did he seek after when he commended them for their giving? Scripture: Philippians 4:18 What did Paul call their act of giving? What fruit did they reap from it?

36 Scripture: Philippians 4:19 Paul says that God will supply all their need (singular), not needs, yet there is an abundance of wealth in that one need being met. What is the need that God will supply us when we are generous and sacrificial in our giving? Scripture: Luke 10:38-42 Martha was very distracted by all her doing and was upset with Jesus that Mary did nothing but sit at Jesus feet. What was Jesus response to Martha being worried and troubled about many things (10:42)? Group Discussion Personal Application Do you consider yourself to be rich? You are! Through Jesus Christ you have received every spiritual blessing in the heavenlies (Ephesians 1:3). But what riches do you think about more; earthly wealth or God s glorious riches in Jesus Christ. Discuss in your group how excessive concern for our bank account or retirement plan can rob us of experiencing the fullness of what we have in Christ. How does giving help us to receive more abundantly of what God has given us? Memory Verse And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19