Worthy of the Gospel

September 17, 2023

One of the most famous mug shots in American history is that of Dr. Martin Luther King after his arrest in Birmingham, Alabama. But what should have symbolized the humiliation and destruction of Dr. King’s legacy became a sign of his cause. Join us for a message from Philippians 1:27-30 where we learn that sometimes the very thing that appears to be for our destruction is really for our salvation.

Listen to Podcast

Passage

Philippians 1:27-30

Principle

To follow Jesus is to welcome the ##grace## of ##suffering##.

Practice

Identify the ##grace## in your ##suffering##.

Small Group Questions

Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.

Hangout

Have you ever been thrown into a leadership situation without being sure you were ready? What happened?

Hear

Read Romans 15:1-13

Why should the strong bear with the failings of the weak? How does this apply to faith?
Is it possible to “accept one another” and still strive to be holy as God is holy? How?
Paul is addressing the Jews and Gentiles who are now a part of the church in Rome. What natural divisions exist in the church today that may require extra grace as we strive for unity?

Read Romans 15:14-22

What often hindered Paul from coming to Rome? What was Paul’s ambition? What would happen if every member of your group shared Paul’s ambition?
Paul was confident that believers in Rome were filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another (v. 14). What do we have that the believers in the first century lacked?
If the leadership of our church were suddenly gone, how confident would you be that your group could continue the work of the church?

Read Romans 15:23-33

What led Paul to finally plan a visit to Rome? What did he need to do before coming to Rome?
What did Paul want from the church in Rome?
How does Aspire Church San Marco continue the example of praying for and supporting the work of missionaries and church planters today? Is your group involved? If so, how? How can individuals and families participate in the great commission?

Huddle

Do you believe you fully embrace Christ’s call on your life? If not, what do you need to do? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.

Daily Reading

As you follow this week’s reading plan, invite the Holy Spirit to show you how you can live in a manner worthy of the Gospel.

Day 1: Romans 15
Day 2: Acts 16
Day 3: Philippians 1
Day 4: Romans 13
Day 5: 1 Peter 2
Day 6: 1 Timothy 2
Day 7: 2 Corinthians 5

Think Deeper

Is there any conflict between living as a citizen of Heaven and living as a citizen of the USA?
Have you ever experienced the grace of suffering? Did you know it at the time?
What does it mean to suffer for the sake of Christ?