Philippians
Sermon Discussion Guide - The Mind of Christ
October 25, 2026 ·
Big Idea
Recap
Paul calls the church to live differently because Jesus is Lord. Instead of selfish ambition and empty pride, believers are to value others and look to their interests. Jesus shows us what this means: although fully God, he took the place of a servant and obeyed to the point of death on a cross. The Father exalted him, and one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Big Idea: Maturity is the fruit of having the mind of Christ.
Remember: The questions below should act as a guide; don’t feel like you have to cover all the questions or that you can’t go off script. Follow the Holy Spirit’s lead.
Looking Back
Care
What was one high point and one difficult point from your week?
Where do you need prayer or practical support right now?
Accountability
Last week we heard that what is happening to us can serve the gospel. Where did you see God use your circumstances this week?
What step did you take to make Christ, rather than comfort or control, the center of your response?
Looking Up
PRAY - Invite the Holy Spirit into your group time
Setting the Scene
Philippi was a Roman colony where rank, honor, and loyalty to the emperor shaped public life. Paul writes to a church facing both outside pressure and internal tension. He does not give them a technique for getting along. He points them to Jesus, whose path moves from divine glory to humble service and the cross, then to exaltation as Lord over all.
Read Philippians 1:27–2:11 aloud. Pause for a moment, you might want to read Philippians 2:1–11 again in a second translation if one is available.
Highlight
Which word or phrase stands out to you? Why?
What do you notice about the movement of Jesus in verses 6–11?
Explain
How does selfish ambition and conceit damage unity?
What does it mean to consider others more important without ignoring healthy boundaries?
Apply
Who is difficult for you to value or listen to right now?
Where are you seeking a position, praise, control, or the last word?
Respond
What would glad surrender to Jesus as Lord look like in that situation?
What is one humble act of obedience you sense the Spirit inviting you to take?
Looking Ahead
Training
Choose one person whose interests are easy for you to overlook. This week, serve that person in one specific way without seeking recognition.
Setting Goals
Name the person and the action you will take. A smaller version is simply to pause, pray for that person by name, and listen carefully the next time you interact.
Pray together
Ask Jesus to free you from selfish ambition, form his mind in you, and help each person take their next step without pressure or performance.