Standing Firm Together

Standing Firm Together

Read Philippians 3:12 – 4:1

In this passage, Paul draws a clear contrast between two mindsets. In v.15, he describes mature Christians as having a particular mindset. This is outlined in vv. 12-14. How would you describe the mindset that Paul is talking about in these verses?

In v. 19, Paul describes a second mindset. What do you think he means when he says “their mind is set on earthly things?”

Why would Paul consider this to be a bad thing?

It can be helpful to remember that the Biblical picture of heaven is not principally about being “the place we go when we die.” Rather, heaven is described as the place where God is seated on the throne, where songs of worship constantly are offered, where Jesus is interceding for us, and more besides! All of this combines to remind us that having a heavenly view is much more about remembering God’s authority, power, and glory, than it is about simply focusing on a post-mortem existence.

How can remembering God’s authority, power, and glory, help us stand firm in our faith?

Yet, alongside this, it is clear in our reading that Paul views heaven as a “goal” and a “prize.” What do you think he means by this?

How do you think Paul’s present circumstances (i.e., he was in prison) might have influenced his perspective on heaven?

How do you think our present circumstances (i.e., we live in relative comfort, privilege, and wealth) might be affecting our perspectives on heaven?

Sometimes, critics of the church describe Christians as being “too heavenly minded for any earthly good.” What are some of the ways in which Christians can have an unhealthy or toxic view of heaven?

How do you think Paul’s view of heaven empowered him to continue to press on with his earthly ministry of evangelism and church planting?

What can we do that might grow or strengthen our view of heaven, to the point where we can minister with greater boldness and faith?