Standing Firm - Phil 1:27-30

Message Study Questions

Message Summary

Believers are called to live worthy of the gospel—pursuing God through His Word, reflecting Christ in speech and action, and standing united with other believers. This is a shared mission, not a solo one. Paul urges the church to stand firm in one Spirit, striving together for the gospel without fear. Our real enemy is spiritual, not one another (Ephesians 6:12), and internal division gives the enemy ground. We must stay focused on the gospel, live with humility, and show the fruit of the Spirit (love, peace, kindness, etc.) rather than getting caught in cultural or online conflict. Suffering is inevitable—it can weaken or deepen our faith. Seeing suffering as a gift is radical but powerful. We’re called to stand firm, embody Christ, live with integrity, and show Jesus to a hurting world.

1. What privileges do you value most as a citizen of the United States?
   

2. What privileges do you have as a citizen of God’s Kingdom?
   

Consider This

Divert the western individualistic mindset to a more connected, collective Christian culture where the church functions as one body with each member contributing to the whole.

1. Read Philippians 1:27-30.

   • What are your key responsibilities as a citizen of God’s Kingdom?

   • How should we respond to opposition to us as Gospel people?

   • Why should you stand firm in your faith and remain united with other believers?

2. How does American culture (which values individualism) challenge our ability to live out a connected faith?
   

3. Read Ephes 4:1-3 and list the attitudes and actions that promote unity? Which of these is most difficult for you to practice? What can you do to grow in that area?
   

4. Why do you think Paul warns believers to be careful in 1 Corinthians 10:12? How can we ultimately stand for Jesus according to Jude 24? How can you apply these principles to your life daily?
   

5. Who is our true enemy according to Ephesians 6:12?
   

   • How does this spiritual perspective change the way you handle conflict within the church or with other Christians?

   • Have you ever been tempted to “fight” the wrong enemy in your life or relationships?

6. What does “character” mean to you, and how is it tested in unseen or difficult moments?
   

7. Read 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15. How is a Christian “sanctified?” What is God’s role and what is ours?
   

8. What is one challenging situation you are facing now?
   

Moving Forward – Application

Together as one, we stand firm and represent Jesus to a world that desperately needs him.

1. How are you helping to share or show the gospel right now? What’s one way you can do this in the coming week?
   

2. What’s one area where God is calling you to “stand firm” right now?
   

3. How can your group or church work more closely together as one?
   

4. How can Christ be magnified in you through your current struggles?
   

5. How can you support someone suffering this week—and reflect Jesus in that?