Read Philippians 2:1–13. 

1. With verses 1–11 as the foundation, how do believers “work out their salvation with fear and trembling” (v. 12)? (Think about the attitude, the work itself, and the motivation behind it all.) How does this guide our understanding of church attendance and being involved in the life of the church and other believers? What do verses 12 and 13 teach us about growing in sanctification?

Read Philippians 2:19–30.
 

1. Timothy shows a genuine concern for others that springs from seeking “the interests of Christ” rather than his own. In what concrete ways could you grow this week in looking to the interests of Christ by caring for specific people in your church or circle? What would it look like in your life today to seek “the interests of Christ”? How does love for Christ fuel real love for others?
2. Epaphroditus risked his life simply to serve and care for Paul, not to do something “impressive” in ministry. What does his example teach us about ordinary, practical service, and how might that challenge our view of what “real” ministry is?
3. Paul was writing to a church about their perseverance, using Epaphroditus as an example. In what ways can this group actively strengthen one another’s endurance? What would it look like for us to take responsibility for one another’s perseverance?
4. Paul tells us that the same God who raised Jesus from the dead is at work in us, enabling us to persevere when life is overwhelming or dark. How does this shape the way you think about a current pressure, fear, or suffering in your own life? How does a good understanding of God’s sovereign, effectual work guard us from both pride and despair?

Send a text