SOAR DISCUSSION GUIDE

Finding Joy When Life is Filled with Conflicts

Ps Barry Cutchie

Scripture
Read Philippians 3:1 – 4:1

Observation
Ps Barry shared that the 3 stages of our Christian journey are salvation, sanctification and glorification. The first
2 are stages we encounter here on earth, and in each of these 2, there are “joy robbers” that could take away the
joy that is rightfully every Christian’s.
1. Briefly, describe what is “legalism”, drawing especially from Paul’s vivid picture of those who promote
it in Philipians 3.
2. How does legalism rob a Christian of the joy of their salvation?
3. What is Paul’s antidote to legalism?
4. In a few words, define what is “licentiousness”, again drawing Paul’s description of this “life style” in
Philipians 3.
5. How does legalism rob a Christian of the joy that should be theirs in the journey of sanctification?
6. In what ways are “sanctification” and “joy” related? What would motivate Paul to “press on” and
likewise motivate us?

Application
Glorification is “being transformed into the likeness of Christ”. Share:
– How would the anticipation of glorification help us stand firm against legalism and licentiousness
– In what ways you are looking forward to our glorification in Christ?

Response
Philippians 4:1 My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel
such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God.
Share with each other how we can “stay on track, steady in God”?
Note: Please read Philippians 4 in preparation for this Sunday.