Develop a Christ-like Attitude

Topics: Christ, spiritual unity

I. Rejoice in what Christ gives us

* Paul pleads for spiritual unity based on realities in Christ!

1. Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion (Philippians 2:1).
2. Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death (Romans 8:1, 2).

II. Rejoice in how Christ unifies us

* Paul expects spiritual unity from grateful, Spirit-filled believers!

1. Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose (Philippians 2:2).
2. So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity (Colossians 3:12-14).

III. Rejoice in who Christ brings to us

* Paul says spiritual unity rejects selfishness and considers others!

1. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves (Philippians 2:3).
2. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others (Philippians 2:4).
3. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith (Galatians 6:9, 10).

Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, August 30th, 2026.

Life Group Flow and Discussion Questions

Develop a Christ-like Attitude

An important Guideline of Life Groups: The focus of all Life Groups must be Jesus Christ! Obviously, Jesus Christ is our Lord, our Savior, our Redeemer, our Master, our King, and so much more, but He is also our Example. Discuss the attitude that Jesus Christ displayed while walking this earth.

Getting Started:

1. Have you ever expressed the need for someone to have an "attitude adjustment"?
2. Why have so many churches split over trivial matters instead of promoting spiritual unity and harmony?
3. How does the teaching of 3 levels of beliefs: Convictions, Persuasions, and Opinions help to maintain unity and focus for our church family?

Discussing Truths:

1. What are the four motives for Spiritual Unity that we can rejoice that Christ has given us (Philippians 2:1)?
2. What are the four marks for Spiritual Unity that we should display and rejoice in as Christ unifies us as His Body (Philippians 2:2)?
3. What are the five means for Spiritual Unity that we live out towards others as we rejoice in who Christ brings to us (Philippians 2:3, 4)?
4. How can you guard against selfishness (Pr. 4:23; Jeremiah 17:9, 10; Romans 15:1-3)?
5. How does the "Golden Rule" (Luke 6:31) promote a selfless attitude?
6. Why must we be careful to make sure "UNITY" is not taken away from biblical truth? In what way has "unity" become a buzz word for universal salvation and false teaching?

Now What? Application:

1. Do you need to adjust your attitude to align with Jesus Christ's humble, other-oriented focus?
2. Be devoted to praying for spiritual unity for the COTW family and our love for one another!