Post by Aaron on Apr 23, 2016 18:47:39 GMT
2 Timothy 2: Pass It On
Barbara Boyd once said, "Paul had no dead-end disciples." The essence of Paul's ministry was to be certain that the gospel was handed on to other people in such a way that they came to regard this task as their own. This approach, which was very radical in its time, puts the "power" of the movement into the hands of thousands. Paul, having been deserted by many, wants to make sure the gospel won't die when he does-or when Timothy does.
Warming Up to God
Think of a time when an older Christian has entrusted some aspect of ministry to you. How did this create growth and maturity in your life?
Read 2 Timothy 2
Discovering the Word
Paul begins with the call to Timothy to "be strong in grace." Why does he give that instruction rather than "be strong in your gifts," "be strong in knowledge" or "be strong in willpower"?
What does each of the three images in verses 3-7 illustrate about the ministry of entrusting the gospel to others who can pass it on?
Why does Paul cite these specific aspects of Christ that Timothy should remember (v. 8)?
How does this explain Paul's own confidence even while he is imprisoned (v. 9)?
Why does Paul say he endures (vv. 10-13)?
What do verses 18-19 say is both the potential and the limitation of false teaching?
Applying the Word
Which of the images in verses 3-7 seems most applicable to your life right now? Why?
How should the trustworthy saying in verses 11-13 motivate us?
Responding in Prayer
Where is your own character being tested as you try to entrust the gospel to others? Pray that God will encourage you and strengthen you in those areas.
Barbara Boyd once said, "Paul had no dead-end disciples." The essence of Paul's ministry was to be certain that the gospel was handed on to other people in such a way that they came to regard this task as their own. This approach, which was very radical in its time, puts the "power" of the movement into the hands of thousands. Paul, having been deserted by many, wants to make sure the gospel won't die when he does-or when Timothy does.
Warming Up to God
Think of a time when an older Christian has entrusted some aspect of ministry to you. How did this create growth and maturity in your life?
Read 2 Timothy 2
Discovering the Word
Paul begins with the call to Timothy to "be strong in grace." Why does he give that instruction rather than "be strong in your gifts," "be strong in knowledge" or "be strong in willpower"?
What does each of the three images in verses 3-7 illustrate about the ministry of entrusting the gospel to others who can pass it on?
Why does Paul cite these specific aspects of Christ that Timothy should remember (v. 8)?
How does this explain Paul's own confidence even while he is imprisoned (v. 9)?
Why does Paul say he endures (vv. 10-13)?
What do verses 18-19 say is both the potential and the limitation of false teaching?
Applying the Word
Which of the images in verses 3-7 seems most applicable to your life right now? Why?
How should the trustworthy saying in verses 11-13 motivate us?
Responding in Prayer
Where is your own character being tested as you try to entrust the gospel to others? Pray that God will encourage you and strengthen you in those areas.