Philippians 2:5-11b Small Group Discussion

Readings:
1. Philippians 2:5-11: "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

2. 1 John 1:1-3: "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life—the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us—that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ."

3. Isaiah 53:2-3: "For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not."

Observation Questions
1. According to Philippians 2:5-11, what actions did Jesus take to demonstrate His humility?
2. In 1 John 1:1-3, what sensory experiences do the disciples emphasize to describe their encounter with Jesus?
3. How does Isaiah 53:2-3 describe the appearance and reception of the Messiah?

Interpretation Questions
1. Why is Jesus' act of emptying Himself and taking on human form significant for our understanding of humility and obedience?
2. How does the tangible reality of Jesus' incarnation, as described in 1 John 1:1-3, impact our fellowship with God and each other?
3. What does the description of the Messiah in Isaiah 53:2-3 reveal about God's plan for redemption and the nature of Jesus' mission on earth?

Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you struggled with pride. How can Jesus' example of humility in Philippians 2:5-11 guide you in overcoming pride in your own life?
2. The disciples' sensory experiences with Jesus in 1 John 1:1-3 emphasize the reality of His incarnation. How can you make your faith more tangible and experiential in your daily life?
3. Isaiah 53:2-3 describes Jesus as a man of sorrows, despised and rejected. How can this understanding of Jesus' suffering help you in times of personal rejection or sorrow?
4. The sermon mentioned the Habsburg Knocking Ceremony, illustrating the futility of titles and accomplishments. What are some titles or accomplishments you might be clinging to for your identity? How can you shift your focus to humility and repentance?
5. Jesus' path to exaltation was through humility and obedience. What specific steps can you take this week to practice humility and obedience in your relationships and responsibilities?
6. The sermon highlighted the importance of humility and repentance for eternal fellowship with God. Is there an area in your life where you need to repent and seek God's forgiveness? How will you take action on this?
7. How can the example of Jesus' humility and the tangible reality of His incarnation inspire you to serve others in your community or church this week? What specific actions will you take?