Simple Living: “Secrecy”
This series focuses on themes like simplicity, presence, surrender, and gratitude in the re-ordering or our priorities as we seek to live a simpler, more generous life.
Read Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV).
1. In his sermon this week, Pete said that he has found this verse to be one of the most challenging in scripture. Do you agree? Discuss.
Continue reading the verses that follow, in Philippians 2:5-8.
2. Biblical scholars believe Paul is quoting an ancient hymn about Jesus here. What strikes you about Jesus’s decision to empty himself for our sakes?
3. Discuss Paul’s encouragement in verse 5 to adopt this same mindset in our relationships with one another. What would this look like in your lives? How would things change?
4. Reflect on the discussion Pete and his small group had that he shared about in this week’s sermon. How do the following quotes from that discussion frame the impact of anonymous generosity?
• “I sit every week in a church that was gifted to me by someone else’s generosity. They don’t even know my name, and I don’t know theirs.”
• “The story of their anonymous generosity is probably their longest lasting legacy.”
Read Matthew 6:1-4.
5. How is giving in secret an expression of dying to self? How does this honor God?
6. In the Primer Podcast, Meredith mentioned a prayer she tries to start her day with: “God, help me to seek your will for my life today, not my will.” To close your time together, talk about how your life would be different if you lived out this prayer.
(*Video available after Sunday services)
