1. Read Philippians 4:21–23. Even in his closing words, Paul calls us to see the church as heaven sees it: a communion of saints, held together not by status or common interest, but by the unbreakable union we have with Christ, and through Him, with one another. As you have studied Philippians, has anyone come to mind you are currently living in disunity with or are looking down upon? The gospel demands we cannot! They are beloved saints sharing in the inheritance.
2. Read John 17:20–23. Practically, what does it look like to “be one” with other believers just as Jesus is “one with the Father”? Why do you think Jesus cared so much about unity between His people?
3. How have you seen “oneness” beautifully modeled among believers? Give some examples.
4. Paul says in Philippians 4:22, “All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.” Paul highlights Caesar’s household to encourage his readers that the same gospel that defines their partnership is powerful, so much so that it can infiltrate the inner circles of the most unlikely places. The gospel reaches into palaces as easily as prisons, bearing fruit even among those presumed to be the farthest from faith. Who are some of the most “unlikely converts” you have seen God save? Spend some time encouraging one another with stories of God saving even the unlikeliest of people.
5. Paul’s letter ends in verse 4:23 where it began in 1:2: grace. As God’s redeemed, we all stand where Paul himself stood: in the unmerited favor of God. As we come to the end of Philippians, what are some of the key things God has taught you or
changed within you throughout your study?
6. Spend some time in prayer together. Give God glory for who He is and what He has done in Christ Jesus! Pray for each other’s perseverance, that each of you would:
There’s more to a greeting than “hello” and “how are you?”. Will Bostian explores how the God of grace sees us so that we can make others feel seen.
