Sunday Rewind | 3.9.2014
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
As It Is In Heaven (Psalm 96:1-3) – Overflow by Matt Maher
Rock of Ages (Deuteronomy 32:3-4) – Death of Death by Charlie Hall
I Will Look Up (Deuteronomy 7:9) – Only King Forever by Elevation Worship
Be Thou My Vision (2 Corinthians 3:17-18) – Cathedral by HEARTSONG
Glorious (Psalm 72:18-19) – Glorious by Paul Baloche
Beautiful Lord (Ephesians 2:4-5) – Sound of Melodies by Leeland
TEACHING: Philippians – A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 14
We will battle for contentment all throughout our lives.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What was something from this message that you found particularly helpful, insightful or difficult to grasp?
- How would you define “contentment”? What makes you content?
- Read and discuss Philippians 4:10-13. What is your initial reaction to these verses? What do you note about the character of Paul? What do you observe about contentment in this section of verses?
- What are the blessings of contentment? By contrast, what comes from discontentment?
- Where does the major battle rage for contentment in your own life?
- Why don’t negative comparisons work in pushing us toward contentment?
- “In the light of spiritual riches, other things begin to dim.” Have you observed this to be true? In what ways? What are “spiritual riches”?
- How does the gospel of Jesus Christ enable us find contentment in any situation? Is there a situation or circumstance you are currently dealing with where you are finding it difficult to remain content? Spend some time in prayer about this.
Sunday Rewind | 2.23.2014
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Relentless – Zion Acoustic Sessions by Hillsong United
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (Psalm 27:1) – Let The Future Begin by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
Christ Is Enough (2 Corinthians 12:9) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails (Romans 8:28) – Your Love Never Fails by Jesus Culture
TEACHING: Philippians – A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 13
When we believe a lie, we will perpetuate that lie. We need the “therapy” of the Word of God to renew our minds to right thinking.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you had to give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would you say?
- Read and discuss Philippians 4:8-9. Why do you think Paul includes this section in his letter to the Philippians?
- Paul says to “think on these things.” What specifically is he calling us to think upon? Do you naturally tend to think on these things? Why or why not?
- What opposition do you find to putting your mind to the things Paul prescribes?
- Read Romans 12:1-2 and John 8:31-32. How does truth set free? What does it mean to have a renewed mind? How are they connected? What role does the Word of God have in renewing our minds?
- Pastor Mike gave three examples of “incomplete truths” the world presents in defining certain words – success, genius, and looks (or beauty). How does the world system tend to define these terms? Is there a contrast between how scripture defines those words?
- What other words does the world system define in ways that are incomplete or contradictory to the scriptures? What are the implications or consequences of buying into a faulty definition of these terms?
- How is the gospel of Christ “therapy” for our minds? Spend some time in prayer thanking God for the blessing and provision of the gospel.
Sunday Rewind | 2.2.2014
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Closer (Psalm 89:14-15) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
Our God Is Love (1 John 4:9-10) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Be Thou My Vision (2 Corinthians 3:17-18) – Cathedral by HEARTSONG
Jesus Paid It All (Colossians 2:13-14) – North Point Live by Kristian Stanfill (North Point)
In Christ Alone (Galatians 2:20) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 12
Is the command to “not be anxious about anything” reasonable or realistic?
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this message that you found particularly helpful, insightful, or difficult to grasp?
- Do you feel you are an anxious person by nature? What do you tend to worry most about? Why?
- Read and discuss Philippians 4:4-7 and Matthew 6:25-34. What do you observe about the person of Christ from these verses? What do you see about the nature of man? Are there any commands or precepts to be followed in these verses?
- What is the difference between concern and anxiety?
- Is the command to “not be anxious about anything” (Phil. 4:6) reasonable or realistic? Why?
- Why do we tend to hope in results instead of in the Lord?
- How does the gospel empower us to be anxious for nothing? How does the gospel comfort us when we are anxious anyway?
- Is there a situation or circumstance you are currently dealing with where you are “borrowing into tomorrow’s worries”? What would it look like for you to submit those worries to Christ? Spend some time in prayer for this.
Sunday Rewind | 1.26.2014
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
10,000 Reasons (Psalm 103:1) – Unrelenting Love by Nick Thurmond
Christ Is Enough (2 Corinthians 12:9) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
Always (Psalm 121:1-2) – Here For You by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 11
Conflict is a given as we go through life – even amongst those who labor for the gospel.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you had to give this sermon in one sentence, what would you say?
- How often do you feel the strain of conflict in your life? How do you tend to deal with conflict?
- Read and discuss Philippians 4:1-9. What do you observe about the person of Christ from these verses? What do you see about the nature of man? Are there any commands or precepts to be followed in these verses? What do you observe about the conduct Christ-followers should have?
- What does it mean to “agree in the Lord” (v. 2)?
- What does Paul do in these verses to address a conflict between two people who have labored in the Gospel? Based on how Paul deals with this conflict,, what practical steps can you put into practice to deal with conflicts?
- How does the presence or absence humility play into peacemaking or conflict resolution?
- How does the gospel of Jesus Christ give context to any given conflict? How does the gospel encourage and enable us to seek resolution and peace?
- Is there a situation or circumstance you are currently dealing with where you need to “agree in the Lord” with someone, or encourage others to “agree in the Lord”? Spend some time in prayer for this and give a report to your small group the next time you meet.
Sunday Rewind | 1.12.2014
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Revelation Song – Let The Future Begin by Kari Jobe (Passion)
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
The Lord Our God (James 1:17) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (Psalm 27:1) – Let The Future Begin by Christ Tomlin (Passion)
Sometimes By Step (Psalm 34:1-2) – Original Arrangement
All Creatures (Praise His Name) (Psalm 148:13) – No Other Name by Reston Bible Church
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 10
The eager expectation of eternity is one of the great neglected truths of our day.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What do you hope to discuss as a group from this sermon?
- Read and discuss Philippians 3:17-21. What do you observe about the person of Christ from these verses? What do you see about the leanings of man?
- Who can you think of that has been an example to you in your walk with Christ? What about them makes you want to imitate them?
- What does it mean to have citizenship in heaven (v. 20)? How does the gospel both enable and uphold your heavenly citizenship?
- Why do you think the expectation of eternity is a neglected truth of our day?
- Do feel you “eagerly await” the return of Christ? What daily, practical implications would/should this perspective have in the life of a Christ-follower?
- What role does suffering play as we look forward to eternity? How might this alter how we view pain & suffering?
- What is one area where you need to “connect eternity to the problems of life”? Spend some time in prayer together about this.
Sunday Rewind | 1.5.2014
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Exalted One (Psalm 121:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
Closer (Psalm 89:14-15) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
Beautiful Lord (Ephesians 2:4-5) – Sound of Melodies by Leeland
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Give Me Faith (Psalm 73:25-26) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 9
The apostle Paul encourages us to press on toward maturity in Christ, not as a means of earning our salvation, but as a means of experiencing the riches we have in Jesus.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is something that stood out as particularly helpful, insightful, or difficult to grasp from this message?
- What is the difference between knowing someone and knowing about someone? What are the implications of this for the Christ-follower?
- Read and discuss Philippians 3:7-16. What do you observe about the person of Christ from these verses? What is Paul saying about the topic of pressing on to maturity in Christ?
- Are there any tensions to you observe in this text? Are they resolvable?
- What are some things in your life that tend to distract or deter you from pressing on toward deeper maturity?
- How can assets become liabilities in the life of a believer? How does the Gospel call us and empower us to keep first things first?
- What is “one thing” you need to do today to press forward to deeper maturity in Christ? Spend some time in prayer about this with your small group.
Sunday Rewind | 12.15.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Closer (Psalm 89:14-15) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
O Come All Ye Faithful (Luke 2:15-16) – Christ Is Come by Big Daddy Weave
Lord of All (Psalm 97:5-6) – North Point Live by Kristian Stanfill (North Point)
Our King Has Come (Romans 5:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
Joy To The World (Luke 2:10) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 7
Good relationships are built on who you are, not what you can do. Integrity is the glue that holds relationships together.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing that stood out from this sermon that you found particularly insightful, helpful, or difficult to grasp?
- Who is someone you have a “level 5” relationship with? What is the glue that holds that relationship together?
- Read and discuss Philippians 2:19-29. What does this tell you about the person and nature of God? What do you see about the nature of man? What do you observe about the integrity and character of the men Paul mentions?
- What is the difference between integrity and honesty? What role does character play in the life of a Christ-follower?
- “Much of life is measured by relationships…” Have you found this to be true? What is the purpose and value of good relationships?
- How does the gospel affect or direct your relationships?
- Can you think of someone who desires your success above their own? Are you that person for someone else?
- Can you think of someone you can push toward success in kingdom living? Spend some time in prayer for them and ask God how He might have you reach out to them this week.
Sunday Rewind | 12.1.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Alive In Us (Ephesians 2:4-5) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Rock of Ages (Deuteronomy 32:3-4) – Death of Death by Charlie Hall
Closer (Psalm 89:14-15) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
Unending Love (Romans 8:38-39) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Glorious (Psalm 111:2-3) – Glorious by Paul Baloche
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 6
Evil is far more than outward behavior – it comes from within. The only remedy is the truth of gospel of Jesus Christ.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you were to give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would it be?
- What comes to mind when you think of the words “evil” and “depravity”?
- Read and discuss Philippians 2:12-18. What does this tell you about the person and nature of God? What do you see about the nature of man?
- Read and discuss Mark 7:14-23 and consider the statement, “The basic makeup of the human heart is capable of committing any sin at any time given the right circumstance.” How do you react to this?
- How does the gospel remedy the “evils [that] come from inside” (Mark 7:23)?
- What does it mean to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12)?
- Is there an area of your life you feel God is calling you to “be poured out like a drink offering” (Phil. 2:17)?
- Pastor Mike uses the analogy of a “humanist wall” and a “gospel wall” – which wall is your ladder leaning against?
Sunday Rewind | 11.24.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Closer (Psalm 89:14-15) – Glorious Ruins by Hillsong
God, You Lifted Me Out (Psalm 30:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
The Lord Our God (James 1:17) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 5
Vanity is the enemy of unity, and unity is the fruit of humility.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this teaching that you hope to talk about as a group?
- What is the difference between unity and uniformity in Christian community? Which do you tend toward?
- Read and discuss Philippians 2:1-11. What does this tell you about the person and nature of Jesus? What do you see about the nature of man?
- What do you note in these verses about humility? What role should humility play in the individual life of a Christ-follower? How should this affect the community of the church?
- Consider Pastor Mike’s diagnostic self-evaluation questions: Do you like to argue? Are you defensive when someone corrects you? Do you immediately form a defense while someone is speaking into your life? Do you find it hard to admit that you are wrong? Is is difficult for you to ask for forgiveness? Does your life leave a wake of conflict? Do you enjoy gossiping about others? Do you tend to draw attention to your body more than your countenance? Which do you tend to struggle with the least? The most?
- How does the gospel address and remedy our struggle with pride? How does the gospel set the context for and empower true humility?
- Is there an area of your life you feel God is calling you to stop acting out of selfish ambition or vain conceit? Is there an area of your life where you feel God is calling to to begin valuing others above yourself in humility? Spend some time in prayer asking God to reveal these areas to you and for the grace to be obedient in them.
Sunday Rewind | 11.3.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Alive In Us (Ephesians 2:4-5) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails (Romans 8:28) – Your Love Never Fails by Jesus Culture
Nothing But The Blood (Ephesians 1:7-8) – Facedown by Matt Redman
Mighty To Save (Zephaniah 3:17) – The I Heart Revolution by Hillsong
TEACHING: Philippians: A Journey Toward Humble Joy, Part 4
At the end of the first chapter of Philippians, Paul introduces a glorious tension that all Christ-followers should feel to some degree.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this teaching that you hope to discuss as a group?
- Read and discuss Philippians 1:22-30. What themes do you see in these verses? What “glorious tension” is Paul wrestling with here?
- Why does Paul rejoice, even though he is “in chains”? What application can we glean from this for our own lives?
- Paul seems assured that when he departs this life, he will be with Christ. How can he be so sure? Are you sure? Why or why not?
- Can you think of anyone who has departed to be with Christ, but who had planted gospel “seeds” in your life?
- What gospel “seeds” do you think you will leave behind when you depart this world?
- What does it mean to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel (v. 27)?
- “All real forgiveness costs you.” What does forgiveness cost those who extend it?
- Is there someone you need to reach out in humility, love and forgiveness? How can you carry those supernatural qualities into that relationship or situation and let Jesus be your advocate? Spend some time in prayer for this with your small group.