We live in a time when people are far too quick to give up. From friendships and jobs to faith and the church, people walk away with little care. But those who grasp the magnitude of Christ’s work and Word, don’t give in. We fight as soldiers, run as athletes, and work hard like farmers for a prize far more precious…the legacy of gospel-impact. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever been so distracted you feel like giving up? Describe the situation:
Read: 2 Timothy 2; Colossians 2:28-29; Hebrews 11
Discuss:
1. Why do you think so many people walk away from their “faith” and their Church? How does difficulty play a part in some departures? Why does it seem that so many Christians lack endurance?
2. What does the phrase “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” mean? How is grace beneficial for both our salvation and our endurance? What does it look like to apply the truth of this passage? How have you experienced the strength of grace in your life? Describe this:
3. Read 2 Timothy 2:2 alongside the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20. What do you see in common between these two passages? If the Gospel is the most important message this world has ever known, why does God entrust everyday people like you and me to make it known? What “things” need to be passed along? In other words, describe the qualities of a disciple who is “complete in Christ” (cf. Col 1:28-29)? How is gospel-multiplication different than gospel-addition? Are you discipling anyone currently? Why or why not?
4. What three illustrations does Paul use to challenge Timothy to endure? How do each of these represent the character of enduring Christians? What are some of the things we get “entangled” with? Which illustration stands out most to you? Why?
5. How is Christ the motivation and model of endurance? What is the significance of Paul’s description of Jesus as “risen” and “descended of David”? How is it that Paul in his imprisonment can say, “the word of God is not imprisoned”?
Pray: Pray that you would set aside the distractions that can keep you from enduring well.
Memorize/Meditate: 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. Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. 2 Timothy 2:4-7
