
Philippians 4:14-23 (New International Version)
14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
21 Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. 22 All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
I. Friendship requires investment (vv. 14-16)
• Investment is the costly
• In life we all have trouble due to
• Acquaintance relationship resists the
• Some friendships are for
• Fasting is a spiritual investment to prepare for a
• Love never needs to be convinced to
II. Investment is the test of professed love (vv. 17-18)
• Relationship is the
• There are
•
• Prayer
• We cannot claim to love God with
III. The revelation of the grace of giving (vv. 19-23)
• God is
• The grace of giving
• Jesus did not redeem us by grace to make us
• Giving acknowledgment is different from
• God will act
TAKE OFF
What’s one hobby you enjoy investing time and/or money in?
TEXT
1. What thoughts or feelings did you have during this week’s sermon?
2. How does the apostle Paul describe his relationship with the Philippians in verses 14-16? What makes his relationship with them different from other churches he planted? What are some practical ways we can show concern for others?
3. Discuss when our investments are viewed by God as fragrant offerings, acceptable sacrifices, and pleasing (v. 18). When is the opposite true? How can we be more generous with communicating our love for others and God through the investment of our time and/or resources?
4. Paul expounds upon how God will meet our needs in verse 19. How have you seen God meet your needs throughout your life? How does valuing God’s grace help us to extend grace to others?
TAKE AWAY
What did you find most helpful or challenging in the series in Philippians (partnering in the gospel, adversity, exchanging expectation for hope, suffering, humility, joy, maturity, contentment, etc.)?