Philippians 4:2-9

“I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. Yes and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all, The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me —  put it into practice. And the peace of God will be with you”

So far we’ve seen some characteristics of God’s kingdom as well as what a true citizen of heaven looks like in our world today. However, living as a citizen of God’s kingdom is strongly connected to being involved in His kingdom. We will never look like true citizens, nor will we live kingdom minded, if we are never involved in kingdom activity. Although endless ways exist to be involved in kingdom work, we will largely stay in the book of Philippians and hear Paul’s words as to how to begin to participate.

What is a key takeaway that you have remembered from lesson one?

READ PHILIPPIANS 4:2-9 & Mark 12:41-44.

  1. How would you characterize Paul’s opening remarks in this passage?

    1. How can we be peacemakers in the kingdom of God?

  2. What can we learn about being involved in the kingdom based on verses 2-3?

  3. What are some characteristics of kingdom involvement that Paul lists in this passage? (see verses 4-7).

    1. How does kingdom involvement lead us to rejoice? What do we know about Paul’s situation as he is writing these words?

    2. What does Paul say we can do “in everything” as part of our kingdom involvement? Why is this so significant?

  4. How do we ensure we remain involved in the kingdom of God? (see v.8).

    Mark 12:41-44

    1. What is the difference between the rich people and the poor widow in this passage?

    2. How do you interpret Jesus’s words in v.43-44?

      1. How does this apply to the way we are involved in the kingdom?

REFLECTION

  1. How can you pray consistently?

  2. How can  you participate personally?

  3. How can you serve and give sacrificially?