“It is right for me to think this way about all of you. . .”
Sermon Outline: Sunday, October 4th, 2026
Speaker: Gary Campbell, Jr.
Introduction
Philippians 1:1-11
I. “I am thankful…”
A. …for the work of God in you (Philippians 1:3-6)
God begins the work in us— Romans 5:1-2; Ephesians 2:8-9
God promises to complete it— Romans 6:21-22; 1 Corinthians 1:8
Apply — Are you experiencing the work of God in your life?
B. …that we share in the gospel/grace of God (Philippians 1:7-8)
Partnership/partakers (vs.5,7)
…in the Gospel/in God’s Grace (Acts 20:24)
a. Defense- Proclamation and apologetics
b. Confirmation- Ministry (and miracles) and fruitfulness
“With the affection of Christ Jesus” (vs.8)
Apply — Are you able to articulate the the message of Jesus and can you share a story of a changed life?
II. I am prayerful that…"
A. …you will display love that is informed and discerning (Philippians 1:9)
— 1 Thessalonians 3:12
B. …you will make wise and excellent choices (Philippians 1:10a)
— Colossians 1:9
C. …you will carry yourself with holiness— blamelessness
— Romans 14:12
D. …your life will flourish with the fruit of the Spirit
—Ephesians 2:10
Apply — Who gets the credit for the good things in your life/ministry?
—Ephesians 1:12; Romans 5:6-8
III. Conclusion & Transition to Communion
Small Group QuestionsSunday, October 4th, 2026
Launch
What's something you're genuinely thankful for this week—big or small—and why does it bring you joy?
READ- Philippians 1:3-6: God's Work in Us
Observe
According to verses 3-6, what is Paul confident that God will do for the Philippine believers, and when will this work be completed?
Process
Why is it significant that Paul emphasizes God as both the one who "started" and the one who will "carry it on to completion"? What does this reveal about our role versus God's role?
Respond
Can you identify specific ways you've experienced God's ongoing work of sanctification in your life? Where do you see Him changing you?
When you struggle with spiritual growth, how does the promise that "He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion" encourage or challenge you?
READ- Philippians 1:7-8
Observe
What three attitudes does the Philippians 1 identify in Paul's statement "it is right for me to think this way about all of you" (from verses 3, 6, and 8)?
Process
Paul maintained partnership with the Philippians even while imprisoned for the gospel. What does this teach us about the nature of genuine ministry partnership during difficult circumstances?
Respond
How can you be a more active "partner in the gospel" with others, whether through prayer, encouragement, or practical support?
READ- Philippians 1:9-11
Observe
What four specific things does Paul pray for the Philippians in verses 9-11?
Process
Why do you think Paul prays that their "love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment"? What's the connection between love and discernment?
Respond
In what area of your life do you need to choose "the things that are superior" rather than settling for what's merely good?