Grow Group Questions • Philippians 2:19-30 • JoyFull

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When you think of the word intimacy, do you think of friendship? How would you define intimacy?

Read Ecclesiastes 4:7-12. Does the idea of intimacy in a friendship make you uncomfortable? 

Read Philippians 2:19-30. Reflecting on these verses, what strikes you most?  Why?

Paul uses many words to describe Epaphroditus & Timothy. Which one resonates most with you right now, and why? 
What stands out to you about how Paul describes these two men? 
Paul clearly has high esteem for both Timothy and Epaphroditus. What caused Paul to esteem them so much?
What about your life would cause those in your life to conclude your concern for Jesus and others was genuine?

Do you think there is a difference between earthly friendship and biblical friendship? Why or why not? 

In his sermon on Sunday, Pastor Billy asked the question “What does it take to be a Godly friend?”. What are some qualities of a Godly friend? Think of some qualities you have seen in people you know. Read John 15:13, Proverbs 27:17, Proverbs 27:9.
Read Proverbs 16:28, Proverbs 17:9, Job 6:14, What are some things you’ve seen that prevent intimate friendships?
Read Proverbs 27:17, Proverbs 27:5-6. What role does rebuke have in an intimate friendship? Why is it important?

In what ways is friendship with God similar to friendship with other believers? In what ways is it different?

Read Proverbs 18:24. Do you tend to think of God as your friend, or do you think of other adjectives first? Why or why not?
Read Job 29:4, John 15:11-17, James 2:23, James 4:4-5. How would you describe what an intimate friendship with God should look like? Why is friendship with the world and friendship with God incompatible?

Do you feel like you have a true friendship with God? Why or why not? What is a step you can take this week to be closer to Him?  Take some time to pray as a group that God would continue to show us what it means to be His friend. 

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