Following the Way of Jesus and Not the Values of the World // March 24, 2024

Phil 2:5-11, 3:4-9

REFLECTION QUOTES

In the ancient Roman world, honor was the stuff of dreams. It ran cities, ruined fortunes, and instigated wars. It was the common currency in which the culture traded, from the heights of the Roman emperor to the depths of the household slave. 

– Dr. Isaac Blois - Mutual Boasting in Philippians

“The Person I Want to Become: 

  • A man who is dedicated to helping improve the lives of other people

  • A kind, honest, forgiving, and selfless husband, father, and friend

  • A man who doesn’t just believe in God, but who believes God.”

– Clayton Christensen - How Will You Measure Your Life?

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 

– 1 Tim 6:17–19

For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. 

– Luke 22:27

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 

  1. What about the sermon most impacted you or left you with questions?

  2. Why is Palm Sunday an appropriate example of the idea that the way of Jesus runs counter to the values and priorities of the world? How was the road to Calvary different from many of the expectations for the kind of kingdom Jesus would bring? 

  3. Read Philippians 2:5-8. Why do you think serving one another is so important to the character and well-being of a church family? How does this challenge you to be a better steward of your time, money, and actions toward the mission of the church? Toward your fellow members in the church?

  4. Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19. What does this verse teach about wealth? How can we practically apply this in our lives both inside and outside of church? What would it change about your life?

  5. As you reflect upon your professional life and calling, how could you better pursue stewardship and excellence in your work for the glory of God?

  6. Following the way of Jesus recalibrates our priorities and values from those of the world. What are some ways that you often get caught up in the race for honor, achievement, and advancement over others? How does the way of Jesus confront you to become more like a servant? How would this change some of the priorities and values in your life right now?

  7. Our message presents us with a principle of two mindsets to hold in balance: 

    • Church Family - We consciously refuse to adopt the way of the world or compete as it does. Instead, we choose to serve one another with humility in the servant way of Jesus.

    • Outside the Church Family - We are encouraged to work hard, with all our hearts, to the glory of God. We are unafraid to hold ourselves to high standards of excellence and competition with Christian character.

  8. How do these two mindsets encourage you as Christians to engage in the world as students, athletes, parents, or professionals? How do you find them challenging or in tension with one another?