Last Days: 2 Timothy
A person's LAST DAYS can tell us a lot about them. Through Paul's second letter to his spiritual son Timothy, God encourages us to see what is possible, expected, and hopeful in His church in these LAST DAYS. He challenges us to help others get ready for their LAST DAYS as we prepare for our LAST DAYS. #2timothy #2019
Starter
- Talk about a time when you saw what everyone else was doing and thought "But as for me..."?
Pray
Lord we pray that you would help us embrace the "But as for you" and continue in what we have learned being serious about everything, enduring hardship, doing the work of an evangelist, and fulfilling our ministry.
Study Questions for "But As for You"
Paul has been in prison for 4 years. Timothy has been serving as the pastor in Ephesus during that time. Paul knows that he is coming to the end of his life most likely by execution. He has written a lot of letters but probably none more endearing than this second letter to his spiritual son Timothy. Timothy had been Paul's ministry partner traveling with him for more than a decade. This final letter is to encourage and equip Timothy and us in these last days. Paul has poured his life and heart out to God. He is coming to the end of his letter and like a dad says I know all you have heard and seen, BUT AS FOR YOU...
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- What is Paul's view of the Scriptures? Is there anything that sticks out to you about what he tells Timothy in v. 14‐15?
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- BUT AS FOR YOU, why do you read the Bible? Why do you think God has preserved and given us his Word?
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- Look at theses functions of scripture, teaching, rebuking, correcting, training in righteousness, how would you explain each term practically? Why are each of these functions important? Why is their stated order significant?
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- In Paul's "BUT AS FOR YOU" to Timothy, he focuses on two future things: future judgment and Christ’s appearing/coming kingdom. In light of the commands he’s about to give Timothy, why do you think Paul mentions these two things in particular?
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- What are the 5 commands Timothy is given in v.1‐2 (look for the verbs!)? Why are each of these tasks so crucial?
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- What does Paul warn "WILL" happen (as do Jesus and the rest of the New testament writers)? Why is this warning/promise significant for us to embrace?
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- What are some things our culture “preaches” that are counter to the "BUT AS FOR YOU" message of the good news about Jesus? How do cultural messages seem attractive and/or believable?
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- What do you think is the significance of Paul mentioning people having an itch to hear something new as a major factor in their turning away?
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- How do we see the power of turning to myths or stories taking precedent over scripture in our culture?