SMALL GROUP GUIDE
____ like Jesus: “There is Another King”
Scripture Focus: Philippians 1:1-11
ICEBREAKER
If you could spend one day with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Who is someone God has used to significantly influence your faith journey? How did God use that person to help you become more like Jesus?
INTRODUCTION
When Paul wrote Philippians, he was making a bold declaration in a culture dominated by the Roman Empire. Rome claimed to bring peace, hope, and salvation through Caesar. Caesar was called “Lord,” “Savior,” and even “Son of God.” Yet Paul announces a different gospel—a royal proclamation that Jesus is King.
INTO THE WORD
Read Philippians 1:3–5, Hebrews 10:24-25, and Ecclesiastes 4:9-10. How has God used other people to encourage, challenge, or strengthen your faith, and what does that reveal about His design for Christian community? What is the difference between viewing your faith as a personal journey versus a shared mission with other believers? How might gratitude for others change the way you engage in relationships within the church?
Read Philippians 1:6, 2 Corinthians 3:18, and Lamentations 3:22-23. Paul is confident that God will finish what He started. How does God’s faithfulness give you confidence when you feel discouraged about your spiritual growth?
Read Philippians 1:7-8, John 13:34-35, 1 Thessalonians 2:8, and Romans 12:10. How have you experienced Christian relationships that felt different from ordinary friendships, and what made them different? What do you think it looks like to practically “share your life” with other believers rather than simply attending the same church or group?
Read Philippians 1:9–11, Romans 12:2, Colossians 1:9-10, and John 15:5, 8. Why is becoming more like Jesus a better goal than simply knowing more about Jesus? What is one area where you have gained knowledge about Jesus but still need to surrender that area to His transforming work?
EMBRACE AND EMBODY
The Philippians lived in a culture that declared Caesar was lord. We live in a culture that often says success, comfort, achievement, or self-expression should be lord. Jesus invites us to surrender every area of life to His leadership. Take time to discuss the following with your group: What competes with Jesus for lordship in our lives today?
TAKE YOUR NEXT RIGHT STEP
(Prayerfully consider one of the following next steps)
• Worship God: Ask yourself honestly: Who or what has the greatest influence over my decisions, priorities, and identity? Is Jesus Lord of my life?
• Build Deep Relationships: Write down the names of two or three people God has used in your spiritual journey. Reach out this week and thank them.
• Seek God Daily: Pray through Philippians 1:9–11 each morning this week, asking God to help you become more like Jesus.
OPTIONAL GROUP PRAYER PRACTICE
Paul’s prayer was that believers would be filled with the fruit of righteousness. What spiritual fruit or character trait do you want your life to be known for? What might need to change for that fruit to grow? After a few moments of reflection, have each person share their answer and take time to pray for one another.
CLOSING PRAYER
Father, thank You for sending King Jesus and inviting us into Your kingdom. Help us trust Your faithfulness when we are discouraged, and grow in love, wisdom, and discernment. Help us to surrender all areas of our lives to You so that we bring You glory and honor in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
