The Grace Message with Dr. Andrew Farley

If you’ve ever felt like life’s a mess and you’re stuck in the middle of it, imagine being in prison and still finding joy. That’s Paul’s story in Philippians 1. While most of us would be shouting, “Get me out of here!” Paul’s focus is on giving thanks and praying for others. He’s not gritting his teeth; he’s experiencing legit joy right in the thick of it.

What if you could have that same triumph in trials? It’s not about ignoring your circumstances but finding peace and joy in the midst of them. Paul’s secret? A shift in focus – seeing God’s good work in every situation and experiencing the affection of Christ.

Want to see how this perspective can transform your outlook? Click to watch and learn how you too can find joy, even in your mess!

1. Read verse 1. What clues does this give us concerning early church leadership?
2. Read verse 2. What does it meant to you to have “grace” and “peace” from God?
3. Read verses 3-5. How does Paul feel about them? How does this give us insight into how God feels about us?
4. Read verse 6. In your opinion, what “good work” is Paul likely referring to here?
5. Read verses 7-8. How can Paul experience “the affection of Christ Jesus” for others? What does this mean for you and what you can experience through Jesus?
6. Read verses 9-11. Love, knowledge, discernment, excellence, sincerity, blamelessness, fruit-bearing: How does all of this happen in a believer’s life? Discuss.
7. Read verses 12-14. How did Paul view his imprisonment? What effect did it have on others?
8. Read verses 15-18. What are the two motives for preaching that Paul mentions? What does Paul ultimately conclude about them?

Shouldn’t we confess our struggles to God and others? Even though I’m forgiven, I feel regret and remorse over sin. Is this good? What about shame? Is God sovereign? Does He control everything? Is He in control of the universe? My friends reject “once saved, always saved.” What about Judas and the demons? Aren’t they proof we can lose it?

What is the "wrath" of God? How will some experience it if Jesus died to free us from it? Does God speak audibly to us today? How do we "hear" from God? How should we look at giving under the New Covenant?

I was sexually abused as a kid. I still feel like a little boy in a man’s body. How do I grow up? Is the radical imagery in Revelation 9 to be taken literally? I’ve had cancer twice. I’m looking at more treatment. I don’t know what to do with this decision.

Which verses really say we have a new heart? Would you be willing to ask your audience to pray for Ukraine? How can I believe in justification by faith when the odds are against me?

Is the return of Christ secretive or public? Does the final judgment come later? I can barely pay my rent, yet I feel pressure to tithe. Should I? Is it okay to listen carefully to false teachers to glean bits of truth? Why do I have dreams that I’m losing my salvation?

Is our response to the Gospel a “religious work” or an act of faith? What can I do about men who are looking at me? My sons have recently joined the Orthodox church. What are your thoughts? Why do so many end up dating unbelievers and sleeping around? Do we believers wrestle with God, or what is the source of our struggle? Do Catholics pray to Mary and the saints? Is that tradition consistent with the New Testament?

What if you didn’t need a new you, just a new view? Hebrews 8-10 reveals the mind-blowing truth that you’re already forgiven, holy, and blameless. No more self-improvement projects and endless striving. Instead, you can celebrate being one with Him forever, thanks to a more excellent ministry and better promises.

The cross worked perfectly, once for all, and God will never require anything else for your forgiveness. Imagine living life with the confidence that nothing is wrong with you. Because of the New Covenant, you’re perfectly cleansed inside and out, allowing the light of Christ to shine brilliantly through you.

Get ready to see life through the lens of grace and experience the transformative power of believing what God says about you. Click now to watch and discover how this freedom and assurance can change the way you live!

1. Read Hebrews 8:6. What is the “more excellent ministry”? What are the “better promises”?
2. Read Hebrews 9:11-12. Why are the words “once for all” and “eternal” so significant in this passage?
3. Read Hebrews 9:13-14. What is the comparison and logical argument made? What does this mean to you personally?
4. Read Hebrews 9:15 and react to this statement: The cross works backward and forward in time.
5. Read Hebrews 10:15-17. What are the key elements of the new covenant? Why is it noteworthy that the Holy Spirit is testifying to it?
6. Read Hebrews 10:18 and react to this statement: The cross worked perfectly, so God will never require anything else for your forgiveness.
7. Read Hebrews 10:19-23. What are three or four things we’re encouraged to do in light of Christ’s finished work?
8. Read Hebrews 10:24-25. In terms of attitudes and actions, what is the main focus in this new life in Christ? And why do we gather today?

I’ve learned to say what God says about me! Will the Jews still perish if they don’t believe? Why are so many preaching legalism? Why can’t they just “get” the message of grace? How should we act and respond to people in times of terrorism?

Why does Jesus say “many are called, few are chosen”? How does the parable about the wedding feast reveal His true meaning? When is the rapture? Why did Paul go to Arabia?