1. Philippians

2. Philippians 2:1- In Christ, we have encouragement, comfort, fellowship, tenderness and compassion Philippians 2:3-4- Replace selfish ambition and empty self-glory with humble service to others

3. Philippians 2:5-8- Christ is our model. He left heaven and all its privileges (kenosis), came to earth as a man and served, suffered and died on a cross for our sins Philippians 2:9-11- Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord

4. Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed- not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence- continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- Philippians 2:12-13

5. What was Jesus’ number 1 complaint against the religious leaders of his day? Clark Kent… In the end, who is responsible for my lifestyle as a follower of Jesus?

6. …continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling…- vs. 13 Salvation- deliverance/set free from in order to become

7. …continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling…- vs. 13 Work out- work fully, accomplish, complete, finish Why “fear and trembling?”

8. …for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- vs. 13 How does God work in you?

9. …for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- vs. 13 Works- energoon- mighty, powerful, effective working

10. …for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- vs. 13 What is God working in us to do?

11. …for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- vs. 13 2 Areas: Desire and Action

12. …for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- vs. 13 One of the evidences of real faith is found in one’s desires

13. …for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose- vs. 13 Act- energein- divine power in action

15. What about Christians who try so hard to change but keep falling back into previous habits and behaviors?

16. How do you know God’s desires for you? What role should your spiritual family play in helping you follow Jesus?