Week 4 - People of the Word Pt.2
Scripture:
2 Timothy 4:1-2
Study:
Paul’s final letter to Timothy reminds us of the eternal significance of our relationship with Christ. In this closing chapter, Paul emphasizes that our ultimate accountability is to Jesus, the righteous judge, and that the most critical question we must answer is, “Who is Jesus Christ to you, and what have you done with Him?”
Paul calls believers to build their lives on God’s Word, to proclaim His truth boldly, and to be ready to endure hardships for the sake of the gospel. Relationships take on eternal significance as we are called to invest in others, share God’s love, and live as a light in a darkening world.
Our identity in Christ compels us to live with purpose, meeting both spiritual and physical needs, and pointing others to the hope of His kingdom. With eternity in view, we are challenged to faithfully run the race, proclaiming the Word and reflecting God’s grace in all we do.
Discussion Questions:
Who is Jesus Christ to you, and how does this influence your daily life?
What barriers keep you from fully proclaiming or living out God’s Word?
Relational Impact:
How can you intentionally build relationships where God’s Word is central?
Are there specific ways you can overcome divisions or barriers in your relationships through forgiveness and the Word of God?
Practical Application:
How can you be more ready “in season and out of season” to share God’s Word?
What physical or spiritual needs of others can you meet this week?
Week 3 - People of the Word
Scripture:
2 Timothy 3:1-17
Study:
In a world where darkness and spiritual opposition seem to intensify, we are reminded that this opposition is ultimately against God and all who bear His image. Paul’s words to Timothy warn us of the perilous times that characterize the last days, marked by godlessness and deceit. These characteristics are not only signs of rebellion against God but also tools of spiritual warfare aimed at turning hearts away from Him.
Amid these challenges, Paul reminds us that the Word of God, inspired and breathed out by the Spirit, is our source of life and strength. It equips us for every good work and sustains us in our faith, even as the world grows darker. This study challenges us to examine our lives, recognize the reality of spiritual warfare, and hold fast to Scripture as the foundation of our lives.
Understanding the Opposition:
How does the idea of a spiritual being opposing God and His creation shape our understanding of the challenges we face today?
In what ways might this opposition manifest in our culture and personal lives?
Reflecting on the Last Days:
Paul lists characteristics of godlessness in 2 Timothy 3:1-5. Which of these do you see prevalent in today’s world?
How can we guard our hearts and lives from being influenced by these traits?
The Power of God’s Word:
2 Timothy 3:16-17 speaks about the purpose of Scripture. How has God’s Word personally equipped you or challenged you recently?
How can we cultivate a deeper reliance on Scripture in our daily lives?
Living with Purpose:
In light of increasing darkness, how can we actively participate in God’s mission of redemption and restoration?
How does the hope of Christ’s return motivate you to remain steadfast in your faith and actions?
Spiritual Warfare in Practice:
What are practical steps we can take to recognize and resist the deception and tactics of spiritual opposition?
How can prayer and the Word of God serve as tools in this battle?
Closing Prayer:
Father God, we come before You, aware of the spiritual battles that surround us. Thank You for the truth of Your Word, which is living, active, and able to sustain us in every season. Forgive us where we have allowed the culture of darkness to infiltrate our hearts and lives.
We pray for discernment to recognize the tactics of the enemy and courage to stand firm in Your truth. Holy Spirit, awaken us to the life-giving power of Scripture and guide us as we seek to be lights in this dark world. May our lives reflect Your glory, and may we remain faithful until the day of Christ’s return. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Week 2 - The People of God
Scripture: "You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus... Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops." – 2 Timothy 2:1, 3-6
"But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: 'The Lord knows those who are his,' and, 'Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.' … So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart." – 2 Timothy 2:19, 22
Study: Paul’s words to Timothy offer us a blueprint for living as the people of God. The grace we receive through Christ empowers us to live lives that reflect His character—marked by righteousness, faith, love, and peace. Through vivid metaphors of a soldier, athlete, and farmer, Paul calls us to endurance, discipline, and diligence.
The foundation of our identity is Christ, and we are called to leave behind "youthful passions"—immaturity, selfishness, and sin—and step into spiritual maturity. This transformation enables us to be “vessels for honorable use,” set apart and ready for God’s work.
God’s people are called to reflect His grace, not only for personal growth but to disciple others, living on mission for His kingdom.
Discussion Questions:
How does grace shape the way you live and interact with others?
What “youthful passions” or habits might God be calling you to leave behind?
In what ways are you currently serving God’s kingdom? How might God be calling you to grow in service?
What practical steps can you take to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace this week?
Prayer
Lord, we thank You for Your grace, freely given to us at the expense of Christ Jesus. Help us to live as people of grace, reflecting Your character in our words, actions, and hearts. Strengthen us to endure like the soldier, run with discipline like the athlete, and work diligently like the farmer, all for Your glory. Teach us to flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. May we be set apart as vessels for honorable use, ready for every good work You call us to. Use us to draw others to Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Week 1 - The Kingdom of God
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:3-7
In 2 Timothy 1, we see Paul, imprisoned and nearing the end of his life, writing to Timothy with gratitude, encouragement, and a charge to remain steadfast. Despite his suffering, Paul models thanksgiving, reflecting on the faithfulness of God and the relationships that have strengthened Timothy’s ministry. He points to the sincere faith passed down from Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice, showing the power of generational discipleship. Paul emphasizes the importance of fanning into flame the gift of God, resisting fear, and holding to sound doctrine.
In a time of persecution and cultural pressure to compromise, Paul’s words are a call to courage and faithfulness. He reminds Timothy—and us—that the Spirit of God brings power, love, and self-control, equipping us to endure and proclaim the gospel. The message is clear: our faith is not to be hidden or hindered by shame but boldly lived out as we labor to love others and point them to the coming kingdom of God.
Discussion Questions
Gratitude in Suffering:
Paul begins his letter by giving thanks to God despite his circumstances. How can we cultivate a heart of gratitude when facing hardship or uncertainty?Generational Faith:
Timothy’s faith was shaped by his grandmother and mother. Who has played a significant role in shaping your faith? How can you invest in passing your faith to others?Fanning the Flame:
Paul encourages Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God.” What gifts or callings has God given you, and how can you fan them into flame this year?Living Without Shame:
Paul says, “Do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord.” What areas of your life challenge you to live boldly for Christ, and how can you overcome the temptation to shrink back?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of Your Word and the example of faith we see in Paul and Timothy. Help us to live with gratitude, even in difficult circumstances, and to fan into flame the gifts You have given us. Strengthen us to be bold witnesses for Your kingdom, unashamed of the gospel and full of Your Spirit’s power, love, and self-control. May our lives be used to pass on faith to others, reflecting Your glory and pointing to the eternal hope we have in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.