Sermon July 20th 2025

1. How does the sermon define the "reason to praise," and what is it NOT dependent on?
2. Explain the "Master Gardener" metaphor used in the sermon. What does God represent in this analogy, and what do "weeds" symbolize?
3. According to the sermon, what societal factors contribute to the rising rates of anxiety, particularly among younger age groups?
4. How does Paul's command to "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4) relate to one's circumstances, according to the speaker?
5. What is the significance of "The Lord is near" in Philippians 4:5, and how does the speaker illustrate this point?
6. Describe the recommended approach to prayer outlined in Philippians 4:6, emphasizing the blend of "petition and thanksgiving."
7. How does the "peace of God, which transcends all understanding" (Philippians 4:7) function in a believer's life?
8. What is the practical challenge presented by Philippians 4:8 regarding one's thought life, and why is it particularly relevant today?
9. According to the sermon, what is the relationship between rejoicing and anxiety in the human brain?
1. Analyze the sermon's central theme: "Anxiety is real, but God offers peace." Discuss how this theme is developed through Paul's teachings in Philippians 4:4-9, the speaker's personal anecdotes, and the use of metaphors.
2. The sermon argues that some anxiety in modern culture is "designed." Evaluate this assertion, drawing on the examples provided by the speaker (e.g., tearing down heroes, questioning truths). How does this perspective influence the sermon's call to cultivate peace?
3. Discuss the role of worship and praise in confronting anxiety as presented in the sermon. How do the opening worship experience, the emphasis on God's nature ("Good Good Father," "God of the breakthrough"), and the final worship song "Jesus I Need You" reinforce the message of finding peace?
4. Examine the practical steps and spiritual disciplines suggested in the sermon for cultivating peace (e.g., blending petition and thanksgiving in prayer, thinking on good things, rejoicing). How do these practices work together to "guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus"?
5. Compare and contrast the speaker's portrayal of "two kinds of gardeners" with the sermon's overall message about addressing life's difficulties. How does this metaphor prepare the congregation to understand the relationship between human effort and divine intervention in overcoming anxiety?