Foundations for Joy: The Church in Philippi Begins

“Discovering UnExpected Joy”
A Study in the Book of Philippians

Application Questions for Week 1

Great movements of God often begin in seemingly insignificant ways!

1. Review Acts 15 through Acts 16:10. What do we discover about the way in which God’s gracious providence directs His people to accomplish His will? Can you recall a time when God used disagreements or closed doors to put you right where He intended you to be?

2. Does God still speak and lead through visions and dreams? Would visions be more authoritative than the Scripture? How do we know if we are truly being lead by the Spirit? What will be the fruit/evidence of a life submitted to and lead by the Holy Spirit? Give biblical support. Is it important for others to affirm God’s divine directions (see Acts 16:9-10)?

3. Review the three conversion stories below. What does each case teach us about conversion? What does each teach us about unity among diversity within the church? What do these teach us about our role in sharing the Good News (Gospel) about Jesus Christ?

• Lydia – the conversion of a religious business woman
(v. 13-15).
• Demon-possessed slave girl – liberation for the oppressed (v. 16-18)
• Jailer – the salvation of a secular soldier (v. 19-40)

4. Review Acts 16:19-40. What does this passage teach us about God’s sovereignty and our suffering? What does this teach us about how to respond when treated unjustly? Can you think of a time when you were treated unfairly? How did you respond? What do we, as Christians, do when we do not respond well? What are some practical steps you can take to deepen your joy in the Lord so that you can learn to sing in the midst of your suffering?

5. One of the most effective means of fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) is through strategic church planting. We see this in Acts 16 where God is going to do great things through the planting of one small and seemingly insignificant church plant in a difficult community. What lessons can this passage offer GRBC as we strive to be faithful to the Great Commission?