To Be Found Faithful: A Study of 2nd Timothy

Making The Choice To Live Faithfully To Our God

Through this 8-week study of 2nd Timothy, you will consistently see that our God is a faithful God, consistently loyal to those whom He loves and who place their trust in Him.

You will learn how to stay faithful to Him—to be unwavering in belief and consistently loyal to Him—throughout your spiritual walk. And, our God is the One who enables us to live faithfully as we choose to do so and depend upon Him for the power to be found faithful every day.

Work through To Be Found Faithful and make the choice to live faithfully to your God every day.

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Using This Study Guide

This study guide consists of 8 lessons covering the last letter in our New Testament written by the Apostle Paul—2nd Timothy. If you cannot do the entire lesson one week, please read the Bible passage covered by the lesson.

The Basic Study

Each lesson includes core questions covering the passage narrative. These core questions will take you through the process of inductive Bible study—observation, interpretation, and application. It is the best approach for doing Bible Study. The process is more easily understood in the context of answering these questions:

  • What does the Bible say? (Observation: what’s in the text)
  • What does it mean? (Interpretation: the author’s intended meaning)
  • How does this apply to me today? (Application: making it personal)

Study Enhancements

Study Aids: To aid in proper interpretation and application of the study, five additional study aids are located where appropriate in the lesson:

  • Historical Insights
  • Scriptural Insights
  • From the Greek (definitions of Greek words)
  • Focus on the Meaning
  • Think About It (thoughtful reflection)
  • Dependent Living (illustrating what it means to live dependently on God)

Other useful study tools: Use online tools or apps (blueletterbible.org or “Blue Letter Bible app” is especially helpful) to find cross references (verses with similar content to what you are studying) and meanings of the original Greek words or phrases used (usually called “interlinear”). You can also look at any verse in various Bible translations to help with understanding what it is saying. Feel free to add your own study at the end of each lesson.

New Testament Summary

The New Testament opens with the births of Jesus and John (often called “the baptist”). About 30 years later, John challenged the Jews to indicate their repentance (turning from sin and toward God) by submitting to water baptism—a familiar Old Testament practice used for repentance as well as when a Gentile converted to Judaism (to be washed clean of idolatry).

Jesus, God’s incarnate Son, publicly showed the world what God is like and taught His perfect ways for 3 – 3½ years. After preparing 12 disciples to continue Christ’s earthly work, He died voluntarily on a cross for mankind’s sin, rose from the dead, and returned to heaven. The account of His earthly life is recorded in 4 books known as the Gospels (the biblical books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John named after the compiler of each account).

After Jesus’ return to heaven, the followers of Christ were then empowered by the Holy Spirit and spread God’s salvation message among the Jews, a number of whom believed in Christ. The apostle Paul and others carried the good news to the Gentiles during 3 missionary journeys (much of this recorded in the book of Acts). Paul wrote 13 New Testament letters to churches & individuals (Romans through Philemon). The section in our Bible from Hebrews to Jude contains 8 additional letters penned by five men, including two apostles (Peter and John) and two of Jesus’ half-brothers (James and Jude). The author of Hebrews is unknown. The apostle John also recorded Revelation, which summarizes God’s final program for the world. The Bible ends as it began—with a new, sinless creation.

Stay Faithful

Through this 8-week study of 2nd Timothy, you will consistently see that our God is a faithful God, consistently loyal to those whom He loves and who place their trust in Him. You will learn how to stay faithful to Him—to be unwavering in belief and consistently loyal to Him—throughout your spiritual walk. And, our God is the One who enables us to live faithfully as we choose to do so and depend upon Him for the power to be found faithful every day.

Make the choice to live faithfully to your God every day.

© 2019.

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Lesson 1: Truth and Faithfulness

Day One Study

The ABCs of 2nd Timothy—Author, Background, and Context

Like any book you read, it always helps to know a bit about the author, the background setting for the story (i.e., past, present, future), and where the book fits into a series (that’s the context). The same is true of Bible books.

Author

Paul identifies himself as the author of this letter written to Timothy. Paul, whose Hebrew name was Saul, was born in Tarsus, a major Roman city on the coast of southeast Asia Minor. Tarsus was the center for the tent making industry. Paul was trained in that craft as his occupation (his primary paying profession). As a Jewish Pharisee from the tribe of Benjamin, Paul was educated at the feet of Gamaliel, a well-respected rabbi of the day. Paul was an ardent persecutor of the early church until his life-changing conversion to Christianity.

After believing in Jesus Christ as his Savior, Paul was sent by God as an apostle to take the gospel to the Gentiles. This was an amazing about-face for a committed Pharisee like Paul who ordinarily would have nothing to do with Gentiles. Paul wrote 13 letters that are included in the New Testament. Tradition has it that Paul was beheaded shortly after he wrote 2nd Timothy in 67 A.D. (You can glean more about Pauls background from Acts 8:3; 9:1-31; 22:3-5; 26:9-11; and Galatians 1:11-24.)

Background

At the end of Paul’s third missionary journey, he traveled to Jerusalem in the spring of 57 A.D. to deliver a collected offering from the Gentile churches to help the impoverished Jewish Christians. After being accused by the Jews of some technical violation of the Jewish Law, Paul was arrested by the Romans and spent the next two years in Caesarea as a prisoner (Acts 22-26). Paul appealed to Caesar so he was sent to Rome. There he lived under house arrest for another two years (Acts 27-28).

After Paul’s release from this first Roman imprisonment (around 62 A.D.), he and Timothy traveled to Ephesus where Timothy was left to care for the house churches there. Paul wrote a letter (1st Timothy) around 64 A.D. to encourage Timothy in his work. Paul also went to Crete to establish churches and left Titus to oversee the work. He wrote a letter to Titus shortly thereafter. Some say Paul went to Spain, but we have no letters to confirm that. Around 67 A.D., Paul was again arrested during a time of great persecution that began three years earlier.

In 64 A.D., the Emperor Nero accused the Christians of burning Rome and began an all-out assault on them. Christians were mostly from the humbler walks of life, without prestige or influence, and many of them were slaves. The Roman historian Tacitus wrote that the Christians did not burn Rome. But, somebody had to be made the scapegoat for it. Christians were targeted as “haters of mankind” because of their refusal to participate in Roman social life that was intertwined with pagan worship. In and around Rome, scores of Christians were arrested and put to death in the cruelest ways.

It was in the wake of this persecution that Paul was arrested in Asia Minor (western Turkey) and brought back to Rome. Whatever the crime was, his trial had proceeded far enough that he knew there was no hope of escape. In contrast to his first imprisonment when he lived in a rented house (Acts 28:30), church tradition says that he was placed in the Mamertine Prison. Few prisons were as dim, dank, and dirty as the lower chamber Paul occupied. His friends even had a hard time finding out where he was being kept. Prisoners in the ancient world were rarely sent to prison as punishment. Rather, prisons typically served as holding cells for those awaiting trial or execution.

While waiting in the Roman dungeon for the “time of his departure,” he wrote this last letter to Timothy, his “beloved son” and co-worker. Even in that dark hour, facing certain execution, Paul expresses no hint of regret for giving his life to the service of Christ and the Church. He was still confident that the Church would stay triumphant. And, Paul knew that at his death he would go straight to the arms of His Lord Jesus Christ, whom he had loved and served so devotedly. (Adapted from various resources)

Context

Though 2nd Timothy is the last of Paul’s letters in our New Testament, it is placed right after the book of 1st Timothy and before the letters to Titus and Philemon. This letter we know as 2nd Timothy is one of the most tender and moving of all of Paul’s letters. It contains a lot of the same encouragement Paul gave in his first letter to Timothy plus an appeal for Timothy to get to Rome to be with him before winter.

1. What grabbed your attention from the ABCs above?

Get the Big Picture

Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

Paul’s three letters—1st Timothy, 2nd Timothy and Titus—are called “pastoral epistles” because for the most part they are Paul’s counsel to his assistants who served in the pastoral or shepherd-like function of the local churches in the regions of Ephesus and Crete.

The three letters address the issues facing local churches just like the one you are attending now—issues faced by the pastoral leaders as well as the members. Five major themes are woven throughout Paul’s instruction to Timothy and Titus.

1) Teach and maintain truth and sound doctrine while guarding against error.

2) Identify leaders who will faithfully teach truth.

3) Guard the reputation of the church so that God may not be dishonored.

4) Do good deeds demonstrating the truth you believe.

5) Live dependently on Christ’s power for all of the above.

These themes are especially evident in 1st Timothy and Titus, but you will see glimpses of them in 2nd Timothy as well. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

What does the Bible say? (This is the “Observation” step in the process of Bible Study.)

Where do we begin? Have you ever heard the saying, “You can’t see the forest for the trees?” The best way to study any book of the Bible is to begin with the “forest” (survey the whole) and then proceed to the “trees” (the individual parts). We will start by getting an overview of what Paul wrote in his first letter to Timothy.

2. Paul wrote 1st Timothy just a short time before he wrote 2nd Timothy. In his second letter, Paul reminds Timothy of things he told him in the first letter. So, read 1st Timothy chapters 1, 4, and 6 to get a feel for what he told his friend and ministry partner in that letter, especially related to Theme #1 mentioned above: Teach and maintain truth and sound doctrine while guarding against error. Make notes below.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Today, you will get an overview of 2nd Timothy.

What does the Bible say? (This is the “Observation” step in the process of Bible Study.)

Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

3. Read all of 2nd Timothy. Notice repeated words and phrases as well as anything that grabs your attention. Pay attention to anything repeated from 1st Timothy. What did you notice?

What does it mean? (This is the “Interpretation” step in the process of Bible Study.)

Now, we will look at one theme in 2nd Timothy (common to Paul’s pastoral letters): Teach and maintain truth and sound doctrine while guarding against error. This theme really breaks down into positive versus negative aspects. You will see both in 2nd Timothy. We’ll look at the positive aspect today and the negative aspect tomorrow.

4. The POSITIVE: “teach and maintain truth and sound doctrine.” Read the following verses. What does Paul emphasize in each?

  • 2 Timothy 1:8-10—
  • 2 Timothy 1:13-14—
  • 2 Timothy 2:2—
  • 2 Timothy 2:15—
  • 2 Timothy 3:14-15—
  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—
  • 2 Timothy 4:2—

5. Once again, Paul emphasizes over and over a common message. In your own words, why is it necessary to teach and maintain truth and sound doctrine?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean? (This is the “Interpretation” step in the process of Bible Study.)

In the last section, you looked at the positive aspect of the theme, “teach and maintain truth and sound doctrine while guarding against error.” In today’s study, you will look at the negative part.

6. The NEGATIVE: “guard against error.” Read the following verses to see what we are supposed to avoid when we encounter error and why.

  • 2 Timothy 2:14 —
  • 2 Timothy 2:16-18 —
  • 2 Timothy 2:23 —

7. Read 2 Timothy 3:2-7 and 4:3-4. Where does error lead?

8. Once again, Paul emphasizes over and over a common message. In your own words, what is Paul teaching them to guard against…and why?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God? (This is the “Application” step in the process of Bible Study.)

9. If Paul made so many comments on the same subject (truth versus error), it should be taken seriously.

  • What could happen to the local church…therefore you…if we do not seriously apply Paul’s message to stay faithful to God’s truth and guard against error?
  • What specific actions can you or do you take in your daily life to ensure that you don’t wander away from God’s truth?

What does it mean to “Stay Faithful?”

Jesus told a parable to His disciples in Matthew 25. A man entrusts some treasure to his servants while he goes away. When he comes back, he evaluates how faithful the servants were with the treasure. The master’s response to the two faithful servants is no doubt familiar to you,

“Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.” (Matthew 25:23)

The definition of faithful is “unwavering in belief, consistently loyal.” We all want those closest to us—spouse, family members, friends, co-workers—to remain faithful to us. What security we feel when we know their loyalty is consistent and unwavering! Faithfulness is an important character quality.

Our God is a faithful God. He is consistently loyal to those whom He loves and who place their trust in Him. God desires that we also be faithful to Him—to be unwavering in belief and consistently loyal to Him—throughout our spiritual walk. And, our God is the One Who protects and preserves that which He has entrusted to us—He enables us to live faithfully as we choose to do so.

Focus on the Meaning: In this epistle, Paul emphasized the importance of faithfulness: God’s faithfulness, Paul’s faithfulness, Timothy’s need to remain faithful, and the faithfulness or unfaithfulness of Paul’s fellow workers and other servants of Christ. Paul was counting on God being faithful and providing what He had promised, namely, eternal life in Christ. (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 7)

Through this study of 2nd Timothy, you will learn how to make the choice to live faithfully to God every day for the rest of your life. And, He will help you to do that.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

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Lesson 2: Stay Faithful without Fear (2 Timothy 1:1-7)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Let’s start digging into this wonderful letter from God to us. For every lesson, we will begin with reading the whole passage to get the big picture before we study the verses more closely. Sometimes, we will include verses from the previous lesson to show continuity.

Read 2 Timothy 1:1-7. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 1:1-7. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

Historical Insight: Who is Timothy? Timothy was born and reared in Lystra (central Turkey). His mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois, were devout Jews who became believers in Christ. Timothy’s father was a Greek. There is no mention of him beyond that. Timothy first heard Paul preach the gospel on Paul’s first visit to Lystra and trusted in Christ. In essence, Paul was Timothy’s spiritual father. When Paul came back to Lystra, Timothy joined Paul on the rest of his 2nd missionary journey.

During that time, Timothy helped to establish churches at Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. When Paul left Berea to go to Athens, Timothy and Silas stayed behind before later joining Paul in Corinth. Timothy was sent to Thessalonica to strengthen the faith of believers there. He also traveled with Paul to minister to churches in both Greece and Asia (western Turkey).

Six of Paul’s epistles to churches include Timothy in the salutations meaning Timothy was with him when Paul wrote the letters. Acts does not tell us whether Timothy was with Paul during Paul’s two-year imprisonment at Caesarea. But, he was with Paul during his house arrest in Rome. After Paul’s release (around 62 A.D.), Timothy and Paul traveled to Ephesus where Timothy was left to care for the church. Paul wrote 1st Timothy around 64 A.D. from Rome or Macedonia.

Paul wrote 2nd Timothy (~ 67 A.D.) while Timothy was still in Ephesus. The area surrounding Ephesus probably had a number of young churches, not just one, with each church led by elders. Timothy was sent as an “apostolic representative,” that is, as Paul’s substitute. He had the authority to order worship and appoint elders and deacons as well as maintain the teaching of truth and sound Christian doctrine.

According to Foxes Book of Martyrs, which was written several centuries later (originally published in 1563), Timothy remained in Ephesus until 97 A.D. During a pagan celebration of a feast called “Catagogion,” Timothy severely reproved the people in the procession for their ridiculous idolatry. This, of course, antagonized the partygoers who beat him with clubs “in so dreadful a manner that he expired of the bruises two days later.” (The above information is gathered from Acts 16-20, most of Pauls letters, and Foxes Book of Martyrs)

What does it mean?

6. After identifying himself as Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God (a declaration common to all his letters), what does he say next in v. 1? Why would this be an important truth to him at this time?

7. Looking at vv. 2-7, what words and phrases reveal the depth of Paul’s relationship with Timothy?

8. Based on what you read in the “Historical Insight” above, why is their relationship so meaningful to Paul?

9. In 2 Timothy 1:3, Paul says he serves God with a clear conscience as his forefathers did. Read Hebrews 11:17-40. What sort of spiritual heritage did Paul’s Jewish forefathers leave him?

Focus on the Meaning: To have a good, or pure, conscience does not mean that we have never sinned or do not commit acts of sin. Rather, it means that the underlying direction and motive of life is to obey and please God, so that acts of sin are habitually recognized as such and faced before God. (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 8)

10. According to 2 Timothy 1:5, who were Timothy’s primary spiritual mentors as he was growing up? What gift did they impart to him? See also 2 Timothy 3:14-15.

Historical Insight: Timothy’s mother Eunice was Jewish, but her own father was apparently not very orthodox. He violated one of the clear commands of the Law in arranging a match for his daughter with a Gentile (Acts 16:1). Later, when Timothy was born, he wasn’t circumcised (16:3). So, it seems that neither Eunice’s father nor husband were observant of Judaism. But Eunice was. Paul praised her for her “genuine faith,” which she shared in common with her own mother Lois. Eunice imparted that faith to her son, Timothy, and…equipped him for a lifetime of usefulness for God. Eunice is an encouragement for every woman faced with the daunting task of nurturing the spiritual life of her children. (The Word in Life Study Bible, p. 746)

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

11. Consider the role of mentoring / discipling in your life.

  • Have you had a spiritual parent or mentor like Paul? If so, who, and how did that person influence you to love and serve Christ?
  • Have you had a spiritual child or trainee like Timothy? If so, who, and what did you do to influence him/her to love and serve Christ?
  • If you have influence over children (parent, grandparent, teacher, friend, or other), what are you doing to impart a spiritual legacy, or heritage, to them?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 1:1-7. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

12. According to 2 Timothy 1:5, we know that Timothy possessed sincere faith, which is a precious treasure especially in a church leader. He also had been given a spiritual gift for leadership and teaching.

  • What is said about this gift in 1 Timothy 1:18; 4:14?
  • Because of this faith, what was Paul encouraging Timothy to do with his God-given gift?

From the Greek: The Greek word translated as “fan into flame” or “kindle afresh” literally means to “kindle up, inflame one’s mind.” The word picture is that of a pair of bellows used on burning embers to invigorate a flame.

  • What would it look like to “fan into flame” or “kindle up” a spiritual gift?
  • What would the opposite look like?

13. Read 1 Corinthians 16:10 and 1 Timothy 4:12. The implication in these verses is that Timothy had a tendency to be timid or be afraid when facing challenges.

  • In 2 Timothy 1:7, what does not come from God?
  • To combat fear, what does God’s spirit provide to us? See also Romans 8:15.

From the Greek: Let’s define those words. “Power” comes from dynamis, meaning “the power of God to make you strong and able.” It is God’s power manifested in us. “Love” is agape, meaning unconditional love, God’s kind of love. “Self-control” comes from sophronismos, meaning “soundness of mind, moderation, self-control, disciplined mind.” It is the opposite of hysteria.

14. Why are these three qualities so important for those who want to serve Christ with their lives?

15. If God’s spirit within us is one of power, love, and discipline, what should (or could) characterize our response towards life’s hardships? Glean the following verses for your answer:

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 —
  • Philippians 4:13, 19 —
  • Hebrews 4:15-16 —

Think About It: “Craving, cringing, panicky fear is one of the devil’s greatest weapons. I have a better chance of solving problems if I deal with them in a spirit of power, love and a sound mind. (Tim Stevenson, Mind Games)

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

16. About “fanning into flame” your spiritual gifts:

At the end of this lesson, you will find a list of spiritual gifts with descriptions of each and a link to an online assessment that will help you to discover your gifts. Most of the spiritual gifts are described in Romans 12:3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-30 and Ephesians 4:11.

  • Do you recognize the spiritual gift(s) God has given you?
  • How are you using your gift(s) and experience for serving Christ?

17. Timothy may have had a tendency to be timid and fearful when faced with a challenge. What specific fears or inabilities tend to get in the way of your service to Christ? How can you apply 2 Timothy 1:7 to your life?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Kindle Your Spiritual Gifts

Every believer in Jesus Christ is gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve the Body of Christ. A spiritual gift is a supernatural capacity for service to God in the Body of Christ. All believers receive the same gift of the Holy Spirit but individually receive spiritual gifts that differ, according to the will of God, to be used for the common good.

Although opinions differ on the actual number of spiritual gifts, the Bible clearly indicates a variety of gifts understood from such key passages as Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4. Listed below are some of the gifts and how they are beneficial to the Body of Christ, especially the local church body.

The following list is adapted from “The Gifts of the Spirit,” an article by Kenneth Boa, accessed at www.bible.org.

  • Administration (1 Corinthians 12:28) — The ability to steer a ministry toward the accomplishment of God-given goals and directives by planning, organizing, and implementing what is needed to accomplish the goal including supervising others. A person may have the gift of leadership without the gift of administration.
  • Discernment (1 Corinthians 12:10) — The ability to clearly discern the spirit of truth and the spirit of error (cf. 1 John 4:6). With this gift, one can distinguish reality versus counterfeits, the divine versus the demonic, true versus false teaching, and in some cases, spiritual versus carnal motives.
  • Evangelism (Ephesians 4:11) — The ability to be an unusually effective instrument in leading unbelievers to a saving knowledge of Christ. Some with this gift are most effective in personal evangelism, while others may be used by God in group evangelism or cross-cultural evangelism.
  • Exhortation (Romans 12:8) — The ability to motivate others to respond to the truth by providing timely words of counsel, encouragement, and consolation. When this gift is exercised, believers are challenged to stimulate their faith by putting God’s truth to the test in their lives.
  • Faith (1 Corinthians 12:9) — The ability to have a vision for what God wants to be done and to confidently believe that it will be accomplished in spite of circumstances and appearances to the contrary. The gift of faith transforms vision into reality.
  • Giving (Romans 12:8) — The ability to contribute material resources with generosity and cheerfulness for the benefit of others and the glory of God. Christians with this spiritual gift need not be wealthy.
  • Helps (1 Corinthians 12:28) — The ability to enhance the effectiveness of the ministry of other members of the body. Some suggest that while the gift of service is more group-oriented, the gift of helps is more person-oriented.
  • Leadership (Romans 12:8) — The ability to discern God’s purpose for a group, set and communicate appropriate goals, and motivate others to work together to fulfill them in the service of God. A person with this gift is effective at delegating tasks to followers without manipulation or coercion.
  • Mercy (Romans 12:8) — The ability to deeply empathize and engage in compassionate acts on behalf of people who are suffering physical, mental, or emotional distress. Those with this gift manifest concern and kindness to people who are often overlooked.
  • Service (Romans 12:7) — The ability to identify and care for the physical needs of the body through a variety of means.
  • Shepherd or pastor (Ephesians 4:11) — A person with this spiritual gift has the ability to personally lead, nourish, protect, and care for the needs of a group of believers. Many with this gift do not have or need the office of pastor to be useful to the body.
  • Teaching (Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:28-29; Ephesians 4:11) — The ability to clearly explain and effectively apply the truths of God’s Word so that others will learn. This requires the capacity to accurately interpret Scripture, engage in necessary research, and organize the results in a way that is easily communicated.
  • Wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:8) — The ability to apply the principles of the Word of God in a practical way to specific situations and to recommend the best course of action at the best time. The exercise of this gift skillfully distills insight and discernment into excellent advice.

Discover Your Spiritual Giftedness

Various spiritual gift assessments are available to further help you understand how you have been gifted. We recommend the online spiritual gifts analysis freely provided by “Ephesians Four Ministries” of the Church Growth Institute at the following website: www.churchgrowth.org.

Allow yourself at least 15 minutes to take this assessment (or any other assessment you have available to you). At the end, you will receive a detailed description of what may be your main spiritual gift. Often, a second gift is evident, and that description will be displayed as well. If possible, print these descriptions for future reference.

Primary gift: _____________________

Secondary gift (if applicable): _____________________

What did you discover about yourself regarding your spiritual gift(s) and how they could benefit your local community of believers?

© 2019.

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Lesson 3: Faithfulness without Shame (2 Timothy 1:7-18)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Read 2 Timothy 1:6-14, (including verses from the last lesson). Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 1:7-18. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

Historical Insight: One of the most difficult things for ancient history students to get their heads around when first exploring the subject is the place Mediterranean societies gave to honor and shame. Honor was universally regarded as the ultimate asset for human beings, and shame the ultimate deficit—so much so that academics frequently refer to Egyptian, Greek, and Roman societies simply as “honor-shame” cultures. Much of life revolved around ensuring you and your family received public honor and avoided public shame…humility was rarely, if ever, considered virtuous. (John Dickson, Humilitas: A Lost Key to Life, Love and Leadership, pp. 83-95)

6. What is the earnest counsel Paul gives Timothy in verse 8?

Focus on the Meaning: Three times in this chapter Paul uses the word “ashamed.” Shame is a feeling arising from something that has been done, not necessarily by oneself but by a hated cause such as Christianity or someone with whom one associates who has been discredited (Paul). The Greek word translated “ashamed” does not imply that Timothy was ashamed, but it is rather an admonition to not start being ashamed.

7. According to Paul, he is the prisoner of whom (v. 8)? See also Ephesians 3:1; 4:1; Philemon 1, 9.

8. What pressures might pull at Timothy to be ashamed to speak openly about the Lord or Paul?

Historical Insight: After the burning of Rome in 64 A.D., the Roman Christians were accused of “hatred against mankind.” This perception likely began in their refusal to participate in Rome’s social and civic life, which was intertwined with pagan worship. That despicable label for Christians (hating humanity) would have spread throughout the Empire. Paul had been considered a “ringleader” of these people (Acts 24:5). (Derrick G. Jeter, Historical Background of Pauls Final Imprisonment, posted August 14, 2017 on insightforliving.org)

9. According to 2 Timothy 1:12 and Romans 1:16, what kept Paul from being ashamed of himself?

10. In 2 Timothy 1:9-10, Paul describes the gospel message he has received from God and entrusted to Timothy. Timothy was not to be ashamed of this gospel and was to take his share of suffering for it. What key words and phrases does Paul use to describe the gospel?

Scriptural Insight: God’s plan to save lost sinners was made in eternity past (Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:20; Revelation 13:8). (NIV Study Bible 1985 Edition, note on 1:9, p. 1844)

11. In verse 11, Paul defines himself in 3 specific roles. God appointed Paul to be a preacher or herald (kerux, “one who announces and proclaims”), an apostle (apostolos, “one who is sent”), and a teacher (didaskalos, “one who imparts knowledge and gives instruction”). How are these roles the cause of his suffering (verse 12)?

Think About It: An “apostle” today is anyone who is sent by God to a location or people. That could be your town and neighbors or a foreign village. Once sent, your job is to be a herald there proclaiming the good news about Jesus and then teach those who respond. Where have you been sent as a herald and teacher?

12. What motivated Paul to endure suffering as awful as imprisonment (v.12)?

Dependent Living: In 2 Timothy 1:12, Paul literally says, “I know Him in whom I have trusted and still am trusting, and I became convinced and still am convinced that He is able to guard my deposit until that day.” What is the deposit? Since Paul started off this letter referring to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus (1:1), the deposit is his soul committed to Jesus for salvation and eternal presence with Him. Like putting money in a bank that you trust, you (like Paul) can depend on God to fulfill His promise of eternal life to you as you have committed your very self to Him. Jesus made this promise of security in John 10:27-28.

13. Focusing on vv. 13-14:

  • What “treasure” is Timothy supposed to guard? See also 1 Timothy 1:11; 6:20; and Titus 1:3.
  • What would it look like to protect this treasure against loss?
  • How is he able to guard this treasure?

Dependent Living: We are responsible to adhere to and teach sound doctrine as well as live a godly life based on that sound doctrine. We can do this through the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is a cooperative effort. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. He is given to every believer at the moment of salvation (Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:13). He is directly involved in both aspects of guarding the deposit of the gospel, namely, holding to sound doctrine (john 14:26) and living a godly life (Galatians 5:16-21). If you know the truth and are guarding it, you won’t be ashamed.

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

14. Being ashamed of the gospel: You might tend to be ashamed to speak up about Christ or the gospel. How can you practice the truth of 2 Timothy 1:7 to help you tell others the good news about Jesus and to guard against being ashamed of it?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 1:8-18. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

15. In vv. 15-18, Paul uses hyperbole (exaggeration) to describe how his friends from the province of Asia reacted to his imprisonment. What does he say about them?

Focus on the Meaning: “Deserted” means “to turn away from.” Just because they turned away from Paul doesn’t mean they turned away from the gospel. Yet, being abandoned by those who were once his colleagues caused Paul more suffering.

16. How did Onesiphorus respond differently? Be specific as you list all that is said about him.

17. Define the word “refreshed.”

18. Paul referred to this ministry of being refreshed in his other letters. What do you learn about this in the following verses? Who was refreshed and how (if given)?

  • 1 Corinthians 16:18—
  • 2 Corinthians 7:13—
  • Philemon 1:7, 20—

19. Why would being refreshed by Onesiphorus have been important to Paul at this time?

Historical Insight: The Mamertine Prison (where Paul likely was kept at this time) could have been called the “House of Darkness.” Few prisons were as dim, dank, and dirty as the lower chamber Paul occupied. Known in earlier times as the Tullianum dungeon, its “neglect, darkness, and stench” gave it “a hideous and terrifying appearance,” according to Roman historian Sallust. (Derrick G. Jeter, Historical Background of Pauls Final Imprisonment, posted August 14, 2017 on insightforliving.org)

20. What self-sacrifices did Onesiphorus make in order to refresh Paul in Rome?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

21. About endurance and the need for refreshing:

  • Think of a time in your life that tested your physical or emotional endurance. What kept you going? Did someone refresh you?
  • How did you help someone else endure a physically or emotionally trying time? How did you refresh them?

22. Choose one missionary (someone you know or someone your church supports) and pray this week that the grace of God will sustain them.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

Biblical Topics: 
Passage: 
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Lesson 4: The Hard Work of Faithfulness (2 Timothy 2:1-13)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Read 2 Timothy 1:13-2:13, (including verses from the last lesson). Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 2:1-13. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

As a result of Paul’s missionary journeys and the spread of the gospel of Jesus Christ, local churches were formed. These believers met in homes or wherever they could gather to continue in the apostles’ teachings and to live out the Christian faith among one another as well as among the unbelieving world.

When Paul visited Ephesus after his release from Roman house arrest (Acts 28:31), he discovered that the church had been plagued with all kinds of spiritual problems during his absence. The city itself, with all of its corruption and idolatry, was a spiritual battleground for the congregation of believers.

Having faithfully done all he could to develop and teach the truths of the gospel throughout his ministry, Paul is concerned near the end of his life that his faithful disciples would entrust these truths to other faithful Christians who would in turn entrust them to others. Paul viewed this body of sound Christian doctrine as a special stewardship from God that must be managed with great care. Since this truth leads to godliness by pointing believers to Jesus Christ, it was the most valuable of treasures. The local church leaders were not only to faithfully teach truth to their congregations but also to sternly resist all attempts to undermine, pollute, or attack the true gospel.

6. In 2 Timothy 2:1, what is Paul urging his spiritual son Timothy to do?

7. Why would Paul tell Timothy to be strong in “grace” rather than something like “knowledge?” See also 2 Timothy 1:9 and 4:17.

Dependent Living: The Greek word endunamoo indicates the need for continual dependence on God. The believer is empowered for strength by God. It is a gift included in God’s grace.

8. How did Timothy learn about God’s gospel of grace (v. 2)?

Focus on the Meaning: Many heard the exact same teaching from Paul. Timothy heard it over and over as he traveled with Paul for many years.

9. Paul uses the word “entrust” several times in this letter. Review 1:12, 14. To whom is Timothy supposed to entrust the gospel? Note: Some older translations say “men,” but the Greek word used refers to people, both men and women.

Think About It: The [Christian] teacher is a link in the living chain which stretches unbroken from this present moment back to Jesus Christ. The glory of teaching is that it links the present with the earthly life of Jesus Christ. (Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 17)

10. Why would faithfulness (or reliability) be more important than position or influence?

11. As Timothy preached and taught, he would face suffering, but he should also be able to stay faithful and endure (verse 3). In verses 4-6, Paul uses 3 vivid examples to motivate his beloved son Timothy, illustrating the attitude that Christ’s followers must have to stay faithful through suffering. What are the three examples?

12. Let’s examine Paul’s illustration of a good soldier.

  • What are the characteristics of a good soldier on active duty (vv. 3-4)?
  • In what ways does a believer “endure” or “suffer” hardship in the same manner as a soldier on active duty?

Historical Insight: A Roman soldier would not be distracted by “civilian” concerns: entertainment, politics, or weather, and other non-military matters that do not relate to their specific mission. They had a job to do. Instead, his focus was on fulfilling the orders of his commander. In this word picture, Christ is the one who has enlisted Timothy. His goal was the mission for which God had called him.

13. Paul stressed the importance of remaining free from entanglement with “civilian affairs” (pursuits of life) as a soldier does. The key here is the phrase, “gets entangled.”

  • What does it mean to become entangled in something?
  • What is the difference between taking care of legitimate daily needs and getting entangled in the pursuits of life that surround us?
  • Why should we avoid that which would entangle us in order to stay faithful to Christ? See also 2 Peter 2:20-21.

Focus on the Meaning: Believers must still live in this world and make a living to support themselves. But, we should use whatever task we are engaged upon to live out and to demonstrate our Christianity… Paul’s appeal shows the importance of developing an ability to distinguish between doing good things and doing the best things. Servants of Christ are not merely to be well-rounded dabblers in all types of trivial pursuits. But, we are to be tough-minded devotees of Christ who constantly choose the right priorities from a list of potential selections. (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, pp. 17-18)

14. Paul then turned to the image of a competitor in the Greek games (verse 5). How does being an athlete relate to being a faithful Christian?

15. The third example is that of a farmer. What does this example have to do with being a faithful Christian?

Focus on the Meaning: Paul isolated three aspects of wholeheartedness that should be found in Timothy and in us: The dedication of a good soldier, the law-abiding obedience of a good athlete, and the painstaking labor of a good farmer. Without these we cannot expect results. There will be no victory for the soldier unless he gives himself to his soldiering, no wreath for the athlete unless he keeps the rules, and no harvest for the farmer unless he toils at his farming. (John Stott, Standing Firm in the Truth)

16. How does a believer avoid getting entangled in the trappings of daily life? See 2 Timothy 1:7,14; 2:1,7; and Matthew 6:33.

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

17. Do you consider yourself a faithful or reliable person who can “guard” the truth of Jesus Christ and teach it to others? If so, how are you taking opportunities to do this in your life?

18. It’s easy to get entangled with things that are not wrong in themselves. They’re wrong because they distract us from seeking first the kingdom of God. There is nothing wrong with a limited use of sports or computers or recreation or hobbies, if you use them to refresh you for the battle. But it’s easy for these legitimate things to suck you into the quicksand and before you know it, you’re not seeking first God’s kingdom.

Do you recognize some areas of entanglement that affect your dedication to serve God faithfully? Ask God to help you get untangled from at least one of them this week.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 2:1-13. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

The context of 2 Timothy 2 is staying faithful even in the midst of suffering. There is a reward for staying faithful.

19. After reading vv. 1-7, Paul’s next words should also motivate Timothy to stay faithful. Of what does Paul remind his beloved son in vv. 8-10?

Historical Insight: Under Nero’s persecution, many non-Christians view3ed Christians as serious criminals. Timothy needed to remember that the Word of God was just as powerful to change lives as ever. Its power was as great as it ever was—even though one of its champion defenders was in chains. As the hymn, A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, says, “The body they may kill; God’s truth abideth still; His kingdom is forever.” (Dr. Constable’s Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, pp. 20-21.

A popular saying

Verses 11-13 are likely an early Christian hymn. The context of this whole chapter, and even the whole letter of 2nd Timothy, is believers staying faithful to Christ until “that day” when there will be reward for doing so. See 2 Timothy 1:12,18. There are rewards for staying faithful (as in the soldier, athlete, and farmer in 2 Timothy 2:3-6 whose rewards are a satisfied commander, victor’s crown and a share of the harvest). The opposite to staying faithful (having strong faith) is becoming faithless (having weak faith) to Christ and losing the rewards.

One of the biggest problems the church was facing at that time was that of Christians, being gripped with fear, denying Christ in front of their tormentors and agreeing to worship Caesar in order to save their own lives.

Scriptural Insight: Remember that our salvation is achieved by grace through faith alone. Paul reinforces this in 2 Timothy 1:8-11. We receive the very life of Christ as He comes to permanently live inside of us through His Holy Spirit. In essence, when God looks upon us, He sees His Son Jesus. We are members of His body. Once we have trusted in Christ, we are no longer judged by our sins. But, our works are judged, and we receive rewards in heaven based on that. See 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; and 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Now, we can look at verses 11-13 with greater understanding.

20. The first two couplets refer to those who are faithful and the rewards they receive. What are the choices and rewards?

If we have died with Him, we will also live with Him. If we endure, we will also reign with Him.

Focus on the Meaning: The best of life on Earth is a glimpse of Heaven; the worst of life is a glimpse of Hell. For Christians, this present life is the closest they will come to Hell. For unbelievers, it is the closest they will come to Heaven. (Randy Alcorn, Heaven)

The last two couplets refer to those who deny Christ / are faithless and the consequences (loss of reward). Let’s look at them separately.

21. If we deny Him, He will also deny us. (end of v. 12)

  • What does it mean to “deny” someone something?

The same word “deny” was used of Peter in Mark. Read Mark 14:68, 70 and Luke 22:31-34. Consider Peter’s example:

  • What did he choose to do after being warned about his denial?
  • What do you think he lost as a result of his choice?
  • What did Jesus tell him to do after he repented from that choice (Luke 22:31)?

Focus on the Meaning: The context of the words in 2 Timothy 2 is addressed to believers not unbelievers. We know “deny” cannot mean to lose one’s salvation (see “Scriptural Insight” above) because our salvation is based on God’s grace not our works.

Paul repeatedly talks about the day of Christ’s returning (“that day”). Based on the context and background, our best understanding of “He will deny us” is that if we as Christians deny Christ here on earth, He will deny us the rewards in heaven that would have been ours if we had endured with Him, remaining faithful to the end. It would be like a parent denying their child a privilege because of something they should not have done.

According to 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 and 2 Corinthians 5:10, believers will be judged in heaven by Jesus and rewarded according to how we lived our lives here on earth. Even if our lives were lived in such a way that didn’t merit any rewards once we reach heaven, we suffer loss yet still are saved because of the faithfulness of God. It is possible, however, for persecution to surface those who are pretending to be Christians but have never placed their faith in Jesus Christ.

We will see examples in 2 Timothy 3 of these “fakers” who have no faith in Christ.

22. If we are faithless, He will remain faithful for He cannot deny Himself. (v. 13)

  • What does it mean to be faithless (literally, “betray a trust”)?
  • Read Galatians 2:20. How does this contribute to our understanding of v. 13?
  • What is the promise to us even if we fail and are faithless in a time of suffering?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

23. Persecution tests the believer’s commitment to Christ.

  • Of what was Paul convinced (2 Timothy 1:12)? Do you have this same conviction and commitment to Christ?
  • What have you learned in this lesson that might help you go through a time of intense persecution or even imprisonment for your faith?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

Biblical Topics: 
Passage: 
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Lesson 5: Faith-Building Words (2 Timothy 2:14-26)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

Read 2 Timothy 2:8-26, (including verses from the last lesson). Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 2:2-6 and 14-26. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

Historical Insight: The wording of vv. 14-16 could be referring to an early form of Gnosticism (interpreting the resurrection allegorically, not literally, because the Greeks thought the physical body was evil). Paul dealt with the same issue in 1 Timothy and Titus (1 Timothy 1:3-4, 6-7). Hymenaeus (see 1 Timothy 1:20) and Philetus may have been leaders of this heresy denying the bodily resurrection. Gnosticism interpreted the resurrection allegorically, not literally. From a study of Ephesus, we learn that it was a center of magic in the Roman world. The residents there held to 6 nonsensical words that had magical power. Perhaps Paul is referring to that infiltrating back into the church.

Paul continues to deal with the issue of false teachers. These people caused strife and division within the new church by their meaningless quarreling over their own ideas. Paul reemphasizes to Timothy not to be “drawn in” to debates with these people. Remember that the context of this whole chapter 2 is to stay faithful and not become faithless.

6. In the following verses, note the instruction that Paul gives to Timothy regarding what kind of “conversation” to avoid and why. Note: The “them” in v. 14 is the same as the reliable people teaching others in v. 2.

Avoid what?

Why?

Verse 14

Verse 16

Verse 23

From the Greek: The Greek words translated “godless chatter” means profane, empty discussion of vain and useless matters.” “Foolish and stupid arguments (v. 23)” refers to speculations, hypotheticals, and useless debates. To “quarrel” means to contend about words, wrangle about empty and trifling matters.

7. What is the difference between quarreling about vain and useless matters and standing up to false teaching? Consider the reasons Paul gives in vv. 14, 16, and 23 for discerning when to speak up.

8. What kind of talk in the church today would be considered quarreling about vain and useless matters? Again, consider the effect on those listening.

Think About It: Sometimes the translations we use can cause us to quarrel. Why should we not let this happen?

  1. Although Paul instructs Timothy and the reliable teachers in the church to not engage in quarrelsome talk, he realizes that it will surface within the church. Looking at verses 24-26:
  • Under whose influence are quarrelsome people operating?
  • What attitude is the Lord’s servant to have towards the opposition?
  • What actions should she take?
  • What is the goal of adopting such an attitude? What is God’s desire for them? (See also 1 Timothy 2:3-4 and Titus 2:14.)

From the Greek: The emphasis in the word translated “able to teach” (v. 24) in the Greek (didaktikos) is on the teacher’s ability to bring out the best in his students rather than the teacher’s knowledge. … The Lord’s servant must seek to communicate this truth in such a way that opponents embrace it and abandon their error with proper remorse. God’s servant thus seeks to be the instrument through whose efforts God brings them to himself. (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, pp. 27-28)

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

10. Consider your conversations. Do you have a tendency to quarrel or argue with people (spouse, neighbor, co-worker, family member, child, someone at church)? Quarreling is sin, plain and simple. When you find yourself getting caught in a quarrel or argument, stop. Do not continue. Ask the Lord to help you with this.

11. In a group setting, women may say things that are controversial or simply untrue. What questions do you ask yourself (or should you ask yourself) to determine whether you need to stand up to false teaching or divert attention away from the comment and focus the group back to the lesson or main discussion?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 2:14-26. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

12. In 2 Timothy 2:15, how are we to present ourselves to God?

13. What does Paul’s use of the phrase “do your best (NIV)” or “make every effort (NET)” imply?

14. How can any Christian (including you) handle God’s Word…?

  • Correctly —
  • Incorrectly —

15. In vv. 17-18, Paul gives two examples of incorrect teaching. What are they teaching and with what results?

16. Paul is in prison, but “God’s Word is not chained” (2:9). Continuing this confidence in spite of some who are teaching lies, what truths does Paul assert in 2:19?

Scriptural Insight: The first passage assures that God differentiates between His faithful servants (“those who are His”) and those who are unfaithful. The second calls on those who choose to identify themselves with (“everyone who names the name of”) “the Lord” to “abstain from wicked behavior.” Seals in New Testament times indicated ownership, security, and authenticity. (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 25)

17. Paul illustrates these truths in the next 2 verses. Read 2 Timothy 2:20-21. What types of “articles / vessels” are present together in a large house, and what purposes do they serve?

Focus on the Meaning: The large house is the Body of Christ. The context is still faithfulness versus faithlessness (vv. 12-13). Paul is adding to the soldier, athlete, and farmer examples given in the first part of chapter 2. The vessels belong to the master of the house yet have decision-making power about how they can be filled. Vessels for common use would be chamber pots, slop buckets, and refuse containers and would definitely not be used for eating, drinking or display. Every Christian is set apart (sanctified) for God’s special use at the moment of salvation—cleansed and made holy in our position before God. However, we are also being sanctified daily (set apart from sinful behaviors) as we choose to yield to God’s Spirit working in us. What is clean and set apart for special use can easily get contaminated and rendered unusable through contact with wickedness. Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord can choose to fill their “cleansed vessel” with the holiness of God or the wickedness of the world. The issue here is not salvation but staying faithful and useful to God. In our heavenly future, we will be completely sanctified, never to get dirty again. Woohoo!

18. According to verse 21, what three qualities characterize such a “vessel” that stays away from any wickedness that would contaminate it?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

19. Think of someone you know who knows how to correctly handle the Word of Truth. How did he/she cultivate this ability? (If you don’t know, you might ask.) Discuss at least one step you can take to bring you closer to the goal of correctly handling God’s Word.

20. Keeping in mind 2 Timothy 2:19, 22, how can you be a vessel faithful to Jesus that stays “set apart” and used for his noblest purposes?

21. If your life has NOT been one used for God’s noble purposes, maybe you are feeling worthless. Remember you belong to the Lord. He knows it. He still welcomes you with open, loving arms. If you haven’t done so already, repent (turn away) from your independence from God and offer Him your life. He will take your willing heart and renew you through the Holy Spirit, redirect your life, and use it for His glory and honor!

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

Biblical Topics: 
Passage: 
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Lesson 6: Influential Fakers (2 Timothy 3:1-13)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Read 2 Timothy 2:22-3:13, (including verses from the last lesson). Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 3:1-13. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

In his previous letter, Paul had given Timothy some instruction concerning those who will abandon the faith in the last days. The phrase “last days” includes the entire period between the first century and Christ’s return for His own at the Rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17). They are “last” not because they are few but because they are the final days of the present age. Jesus referred to this period as the UNTIL time in Luke 21:24, “until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.” Here as well as in Romans 1:28-32, Paul gives a list of general human behaviors that have existed throughout history but will increase in scope and acceptance over time. All of these will contribute to the suffering of Christians who are trying to stay faithful to the Lord.

6. In 2 Timothy 3:1, Paul says the last days will be difficult. What will characterize the last days to make it so difficult (vv. 2-4)?

Dependent Living: Wondering how to live in difficult times? In 2nd Timothy chapters 1 and 2, Paul has already described how to rely on God during such times, how to stay faithful to Him, and how to focus on the reward for doing so.

7. Read Acts 20:28-31. Ten years before writing 2nd Timothy, met with the Ephesian elders and warned them about savage wolves infiltrating the flock. Paul continues to warn Timothy (and us) about savage wolves but in different terms.

  • How are they described in 2 Timothy 3:5?
  • How are they described in Titus 1:16?
  • What could Paul mean by saying “having a form of godliness but denying its power?”

8. As we look at vv. 5-7, we see that Paul is describing “influential fakers.” They are not Christians (see v. 8). They just look like “good people.”

  • Why does Paul say to not associate with them?
  • What would that look like?

The ungodly fakers seek to influence. They will look for the best means of influence and seek targets that are easily influenced.

9. Look at the first part of verse 6. The NIV translators used a word picture for us that we can recognize, “worm their way into homes.” This is a means for the influential fakers to reach their targets. After reading the “Focus on the Meaning” below, what could that look like?

Focus on the Meaning: “Worm their way into homes/households” means to sneak in, to introduce yourself gradually and cunningly into a position, especially a place of confidence or favor. “To gain control over” means to make a prisoner of, take captive especially thoughts and emotions.

10. Read vv. 6-7 in 3 translations. What words did Paul use to describe the targets of these influential fakers?

Focus on the Meaning: The phrase “weak-willed women” is literally “little women,” which is referring to someone who is silly and vulnerable, the opposite of someone who is wise. Although Paul used women as an example, the vulnerability applies to men as well as to women. In their unguardedness, they open the door and let the fakers inside.

11. Let’s focus on the phrase “loaded down (heaped on, overwhelmed) with sins.”

  • How do women get loaded down with sins?
  • How might this make them feel and, therefore, vulnerable?
  • How do they try to deal with their guilt?
  • What truth do they need to know that would free them from being overwhelmed by sin?

12. What does it mean that they are “swayed (led along, taken by the hand) by all kinds of evil desires”?

13. What would it look like to be “always learning but never able to acknowledge (arrive at, be established upon) the truth?” See also 2 Timothy 4:3-4.

Scriptural Insight: Paul gives 2 examples of influential fakers in 2 Timothy 3:8-9. Paul mentions two characters, Jannes and Jambres, whose names mean “he who seduces” and “he who is rebellious.” Neither name is in the Old Testament, but Jewish legend held that these were the names of 2 Egyptian magicians who opposed Moses’ demand of Pharaoh to free the Israelites (Exodus 7:11-12, 22). They tried to duplicate the miracles of Moses in an attempt to discredit him. But God showed that Moses’ authority was more powerful. (The Word in Life Study Bible, p. 751)

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

14. How might such influential fakers “worm their way into homes” today? What do you do to protect yourself and your household from influential fakers?

15. Do you know any women who fit the description Paul gave in vv. 6-7?

  • If you do, how can you come alongside to help her?
  • What can you do if she doesn’t want to change?

16. Does 2 Timothy 3:1-9 offer any warnings you think you should heed? If so, what are those warnings? What will you ask God to do in your life so that none of the negative behaviors characterize you?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 3:1-13. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

Paul compares his example to the influential fakers. Timothy knows Paul well.

17. Considering the threat of betrayal and persecution by the Romans, why is Paul reminding Timothy of what he learned from Paul’s example about following Christ and staying faithful to Him during difficult times (vv. 10-11)?

18. During Paul’s previous times of “persecutions” and “sufferings,” what did God do for him?

Scriptural Insight: Timothy probably met Paul when the apostle first arrived in Lystra (Acts 14:8-23). Before this, some Jews had already run Paul and Barnabas out of Pisidian Antioch and Iconium for preaching about Jesus. But, Lystra warmly welcomed the missionaries until Jews from Antioch and Iconium arrived and persuaded the Lystrians to turn against Paul and Barnabas. The crowd stoned Paul and dragged Paul’s body outside the city, presuming he was dead. But Paul survived, and after spending some time in Derbe he returned to strengthen the disciples in Lystra. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” Paul reminded the Lystrian believers (Acts 14:22). (2 Timothy Life Change Bible Study, pg.60)

19. According to 2 Timothy 3:12,

  • Who will be persecuted?
  • Why is this so? See John 15:18-25 and 2 Timothy 3:2-4, 13.

Scriptural Insight: Timothy needed to realize, as all Christians do, that when a person determines to “live a godly life,” she will suffer persecution. With her commitment to follow Christ faithfully, [she] sets the course of her life directly opposite to the course of the world system. Confrontation and conflict become inevitable. (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 32)

20. But, God uses persecution to be something “good” for us. Read 2 Corinthians 1:9; 4:7-9; and 12:9-10. Why is depending upon Him more than on ourselves “good” for us?

Dependent Living: Human parents raise their children to be less dependent on them and more independent. But, God raises His children to be less independent and more dependent on Him. Whatever He brings into our lives that makes us more dependent upon Him is good for us. When you are persecuted or perceive a threat of it, remember also that there is a reward for staying faithful (2 Timothy 2:3-6, 12).

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

From what we have learned so far in 2 Timothy, our first response during persecution is to Christ (2 Timothy 1:12), staying faithful to Him because we are confident in who He is and how much He loves us. Our second response is to the opposition (2 Timothy 2:24-26) with our words and our behavior. See “Dangerous Times for Christians” after the next question.

21. When you have been persecuted for being a Christian, or perceived the threat of it,

  • How have you responded in the past?
  • What would you do differently next time, if anything?

Dangerous Times for Christians

(The commentary below is adapted from “Truth and Tolerance” by Josh McDowell, Focus on the Family, August 1999)

One of the ways our western culture persecutes Christians is through the redefinition of tolerance. The traditional definition of tolerance means simply to recognize and respect others’ beliefs, practices, and so forth without necessarily agreeing or sympathizing with them.

But today’s new “tolerance” considers every individual’s beliefs, values, lifestyle and truth claims as equally valid. So not only does everyone have an equal right to his beliefs, but all beliefs are equal. The new tolerance goes beyond respecting a person’s rights; it demands praise and endorsement of that person’s beliefs, values and lifestyle.

The results of the new tolerance:

  • The repression of public discourse. “How dare you say that?” The issue is no longer the truth of the message, but the right to proclaim it. In the new cultural climate, any unpopular message can be labeled “intolerant” and therefore be repressed.
  • The privatization of convictions. Christians face increasing pressure to be silent about their convictions - in school, at work, in the public square - because to speak out will be seen as an intolerant judgement of others’ beliefs and lifestyles.
  • A new wave of religious persecution. Linking so-called "hate crimes" to intolerance.

What does the Lord require?

It is not too late to avoid such scenarios, but I believe doing so will require effort in three areas.

We must humbly pursue truth.

Pursuing truth in this context means embracing all people, but not all beliefs. It means listening to and learning from all people without necessarily agreeing with them. “But do this with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).

We must aggressively practice love.

Love actively seeks to promote the good of another person.

Tolerance says:

Love responds with doing something harder:

You must approve of what I do.

I will love you, even when your behavior offends me.

You must agree with me.

I will tell you the truth, because I am convinced, the truth will set you free.

You must allow me to have my way.

I will plead with you to follow the right way, because I believe you are worth the risk.

Tolerance seeks to be inoffensive; love takes risks. Tolerance glorifies division; love seeks unity. Tolerance costs nothing; love costs everything.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

http://feeds.bible.org/melanie_newton/foundfaithful/Newton_FoundFaithful_06.mp3
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Lesson 7: A Faithful Life with No Regrets (2 Timothy 3:14-4:8)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Read 2 Timothy 3:10-4:8, (including verses from the last lesson). Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

6. Paul wants Timothy to draw strength from what he has “learned and become convinced of,” according to this verse. What is the difference between what you have “learned” and what you have “become convinced of?” Refer back to 2 Timothy 3:6-7.

7. What does Paul assert about the Scriptures (v. 15)?

8. Reread 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and 2 Peter 1:20-21. “Scripture” means “sacred writing.” Although Paul is referring primarily to the Old Testament, the word Scripture applies to all divinely inspired writings (Old and New Testaments) as a whole. By the way, When you read 1 Timothy 5:18 and 2 Peter 3:15-16, you get indications that some material ultimately included in the New Testament were already considered equal in authority to the Old Testament Scriptures.

Read the information below and summarize what “God breathed” means regarding the Scriptures.

Focus on the Meaning: All Scripture is divinely “inspired” (Gr. theopneustos, lit. “God-breathed”). The Greek word theopneustos is composed of theo, meaning “God,” and pneustos, which refers to “breathing, blowing, or sending forth one’s spirit.” It does not merely contain the Word of God, or become the Word of God under certain conditions. It is God’s Word, the expression of His Person (heart, mind, will, etc.). This was the view of the Hebrew Bible that Jews in the first century commonly held. (Adapted from 2 Timothy Life Change Bible Study, p. 63, Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 34)

Summary:

9. According to 2 Timothy 3:16-17, how is “God-breathed” Scripture useful or profitable to us? List the ways given in these verses, and explain what the words mean.

10. From verse 17, what is the ultimate goal of using God’s Word for these purposes? See Romans 15:4 for another goal.

11. Focus on 4:1-2. Paul’s final words to Timothy in this letter carried a particularly solemn charge (command or injunction). Verse 1 is like a long “therefore.” And, remember that the “last days” refers to being UNTIL Jesus comes back.

  • What truths does Paul stress about Christ who is witnessing this charge to Timothy? See also 4:8.
  • Why would this motivate Timothy to carry out Paul’s charge?

Historical Insight: “Appearing” was a meaningful term in Paul’s day. “The [Roman] Emperor’s appearance in any place was his epiphaneia [“appearing”]. Obviously when the Emperor was due to visit any place, everything was put in perfect order. The streets were swept and garnished; all work was up-to-date. The town was scoured and decorated to be fit for the epiphaneia of the Emperor. So Paul says to Timothy: ‘You know what happens when any town is expecting the epiphaneia of the Emperor; you are expecting the epiphaneia of Jesus Christ. Do your work in such a way that all things will be ready whenever He appears.’” (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy, p. 35)

12. Continuing his declaration from 3:16-17, write out Paul’s charge to Timothy in v. 2. [Note: this same charge is for every servant of Christ who has a circle of influence (2 Timothy 2:2, 15).]

Focus on the Meaning: The word translated “preach” refers to the ‘herald’ whose duty it was to make public proclamation. The verb thus means ‘proclaim aloud, publicly’ and is used in the NT of public proclamation of the message that God has given … We are not to preach about the Word of God or from the Word of God [i.e., lifting a text from it and then weaving a message around that text], but preach the Word of God itself! (Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 36)

13. What does “be prepared in season and out of season” mean (v. 2)?

14. As he preached the Word of God, Timothy would come up against false teaching, believers who are willingly sinning, and those sincerely trying to grow in the faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Review 2 Timothy 2:15, 24-25. How is a servant of Christ to interact with all of these people?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

15. What does the truth that Scripture was actually “God-breathed” mean to you personally? What implications, or applications, does that have for you…in your teaching, your way of life, your purpose, your faith, your character…?

16. What responsibilities and tasks do you administer that require great patience and instruction? Usually, nothing good happens when you carry them out in anger and frustration. How can you apply what you have learned in this lesson to those tasks?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 4:1-8. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

Paul’s continuing concern about false teaching was a catalyst in issuing such a charge (v. 1-2) to Timothy. When Paul spoke about false teaching, he usually focused on the evil intentions of the false teachers. However, false teachers could not flourish if they had no audience. In this context, the listeners in Ephesus are believers. See 1 Timothy 4:1.

17. List the process by which they become willing participants in their own deception (vv. 3-4).

Focus on the Meaning: Paul pictured people who would be bored by, apathetic to, and annoyed by “sound doctrine.” "In other words, they have made themselves the measure of who should teach them and what teaching is acceptable.” Moreover, they would choose to believe “myths” rather than the truth. (Dr. Constable’s Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 37)

18. Paul uses a word picture of people having itchy ears and wanting them to be “scratched.” See other examples of this in Acts 7:51 and 17:21. The question to ask here in 2 Timothy 4 and in our own world is this, “What is causing the itch?”

19. When people reject sound doctrine, what or who are they really rejecting and why?

20. In what way do people take comfort in their “own doctrine?”

21. Regardless of false teaching around him, what is to be Timothy’s focus so as not to be distracted (v. 5) so that he can complete the work God has given him to do (v. 2)?

22. Paul then reflects on his life of staying faithful to God. How did he view what was happening (v. 6)?

Scriptural Insight: A drink offering consisted of wine poured out on an altar as a sacrifice to God (Numbers 15:1-10). It was the last act of the Jewish sacrificial ceremony. Paul’s view was that his life was not being taken from him; he was laying it down.

23. Paul knew he would be executed soon. The time for his departure had come.

  • As he looked back over 30 years of labor as an apostle, what did he say about his life?
  • Based upon what you have learned in 2 Timothy, what does it mean to “keep the faith?”
  • Why did Paul compare the task of “keeping the faith” to a “good fight” and a “race?”

Dependent Living: Paul was able to “keep the faith” because he relied on the strength and power of Jesus Christ more than on himself (2 Timothy 1:7, 2:1). He depended on Christ in his weaknesses and in his strengths. We can and should do the same.

24. Looking at verse 8:

  • What reward is Paul anticipating?
  • Who will bestow this reward?
  • To whom will this reward be given?

Scriptural Insight: The Bible describes 5 crowns in relation to believers. 1) An “imperishable crown” in 1 Corinthians 9:25 for leading a disciplined life, 2) A “crown of rejoicing” in 1 Thessalonians 2:19 for evangelism and discipleship, 3) A “crown of righteousness” in 2 Timothy 4:8 for loving the Lord’s appearing, 4) A “crown of life” in James 1:12; revelation 2:10 for enduring trials, and 5) A “crown of glory” in 1 Peter 5;4 for shepherding God’s flock faithfully. (Adapted from Dr. Constables Notes on 2 Timothy 2017 Edition, p. 41)

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

25. How do you see what Paul describes in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 taking place in our world? Do you personally know anyone like those described in verses 3-4? How will you pray for her specifically?

Or, on a deeper level, was this ever a portrait of you? If so, how have you changed? To what do you attribute this change?

26. As he neared the end of his life, Paul could confidently say he had been faithful to God’s call. Thus, he faced death calmly, knowing that Christ would reward him. Is your life preparing you for death? Do you share Paul’s confident expectation of meeting Christ? How do Paul’s words challenge your life?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

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Lesson 8: Stay Faithful to the End (2 Timothy 4:9-22)

Day One Study—Get the Big Picture

What does the Bible say?

Read 2 Timothy 4:6-22, (including verses from the last lesson). Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

If possible, print out the verses we are studying. Use your own method (colored pencils, lines, shapes) to mark 1) anything that grabs your attention, 2) words you want to understand, and 3) anything repeated in this passage. Draw arrows between thoughts that connect. Put a star  next to anything you think relates to being faithful or staying faithful.

1. What grabbed your attention from these verses?

2. What verses or specific words do you want to understand better?

3. What topics are repeated in this passage or continue an earlier discussion in this letter?

4. What verses illustrate or help you understand what staying faithful looks like?

5. From this lesson’s passage, choose one verse to dwell upon all week long. Write it in the space below. Ask God to teach you through this verse.

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Two Study

Read 2 Timothy 4:9-16. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

6. What did Paul ask of Timothy in vv. 9, 11, 13, and 21?

Historical Insight: “Winter” severely restricted travel in some parts of the Roman world. Timothy needed to leave Ephesus soon, so he could reach Rome without undue difficulty.

In Paul’s final words we get an intimate glimpse of his character, needs, and humanity. Although Paul had the assurance of eternal life and confidence in Christ, he felt the pain of loneliness in his situation. Let’s look at those who were with Paul but were now gone.

7. Demas (v. 10). Demas was one of Paul’s close associates. Read Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 24. Demas had been with Paul in his first Roman imprisonment.

  • What did Paul say about Demas in 2 Timothy 4:10?
  • What could that mean?

Focus on the Meaning: Did he desert Christ or just desert Paul? We can’t tell from this context. If he was afraid of being caught, Thessalonica was safer than Rome.

8. Who else did Paul mention in 2 Timothy 4:10-14, and what is said about them?

Historical Insight: Nothing is known about Crescens, except he was dispatched elsewhere by Paul for God’s service. Titus was a close friend who aided Paul in two crises and pastored the church at Crete. Luke, the “beloved physician,” accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys and had shared the first Roman imprisonment with him (Colossians 4:14; Philippians 24). He wrote the books of Acts and Luke. Although Mark had been a deserter on the first missionary journey, he was now restored. Once considered untrustworthy (Acts 15:36-40), he was now helpful to Paul in his ministry. Tychicus was a close companion of Paul (Acts 20:4). He carried Paul’s letters to the Ephesians, the Colossians, and Titus (see Ephesians 6:21; Colossians 4:7 and Titus 3:12).

9. Alexander the metalworker (14-15). This Alexander may have been the same one mentioned in Acts 19:23-33. The one Paul named in 1 Timothy 1:20 might be a different person because Paul didn’t add “the metal worker” that time. Alexander was a common name.

  • What does Paul say about him?
  • What is Paul’s exhortation to Timothy regarding this man?

Historical Insight: In 2 Timothy 4:16 Paul talks about his “first defense.” This was most likely a preliminary hearing (leading up to his present trial) at which advocates for the accused person were usually heard. The Roman legal system allowed for several steps in the prosecution of an accused criminal. But in Paul’s case, no one came to speak in his defense or to stand by in support; everyone had deserted him (see also 2 Timothy 1:15). Under emperor Nero, it was dangerous to be a Christian in Rome. Identifying oneself with the courageous and outspoken apostle Paul would almost certainly result in agonizing death.

10. Paul seemed to understand the fear that gripped the Roman Christians. What was his response towards these friends and companions who abandoned him (v. 16)?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

11. Paul exemplified one of the toughest tasks a Christian may have to do—to leave his/her hurt with the Lord.

  • Do you recall a time when you felt abandoned by your family and/or friends? What happened? How did their neglect affect you?
  • When others oppose you and undercut your authority or desert you, what is your natural response? How could this natural response damage you more than the person inflicting such pain?
  • Read Romans 12:17-20 and 2 Timothy 2:24-26 for the proper response. How do these verses motivate you to bring your emotions in line with Biblical truth when you’ve been deeply wounded by someone?

Focus on the Meaning: Paul strongly advocated being a “peace”-maker, but he did not promote peace at any price. In some situations, peace might give way to conflict if, for example, the truth is at stake (as we have seen in 2nd Timothy). In any case, the believer should not be the instigator of trouble under normal circumstances. If hostility does erupt, the Christian should not retaliate (“not take . . . revenge”). Rather, he or she should trust God to right the wrong … The expression “heaping burning coals on his head” supposedly alludes to the old custom of carrying burning coals in a pan. When one’s fire went out at home, a person would have to go to a neighbor and request hot coals that he or she would then carry home in a pan, typically on the head. Carrying the coals involved some danger, discomfort, and uneasiness for the person carrying them. Nevertheless, they were the evidence of the neighbor’s love. (Dr. Constables Notes on Romans 2014 Edition, p. 154)

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

Day Three Study

Read 2 Timothy 4:9-22. Ask the Lord Jesus to teach you through His Word.

What does it mean?

From the Greek: “Strengthened” comes from the Greek word endunamai, which literally means to “infuse with strength.”

12. Focus on 2 Timothy 4:16-18. During that hour of darkness, who stood with Paul to strengthen him, and for what reason?

13. Look at Paul’s mission from Jesus in Acts 9:15-16; 22:14-15; and 26:16-20. Has anything changed even though 30 years have passed and Paul is an old man?

14. What had Jesus promised to His apostles in Matthew 10:17-20?

15. Before this time, when had Jesus stood by Paul and what did Jesus say to him then?

  • Acts 22:17-21—
  • Acts 18:9-10 —
  • Acts 23:11 —

Summarize how Jesus consistently strengthened Paul.

16. What was the temporary outcome for Paul after his hearing?

Focus on the Meaning: “Delivered out of the lion’s mouth (v.18)” Some have seen this as a reference to Nero throwing Christians to the lions in the Coliseum, or perhaps to Satan (for a parallel, see 1 Peter 5:8). More likely, Paul used a common biblical metaphor describing deliverance from extreme danger (see, for example, Psalm 22:21; Daniel 6:22). Paul knew he wouldn’t get out of prison alive, though he was experiencing a temporary reprieve due to a delay in the Roman judicial system. (Life Application Bible Commentary)

17. According to verse 18, how does Paul view his impending death and what would happen?

Scriptural Insight: Look at the chart below to gain confidence about what happens when you die.

What doesnt happen at death

What does happen at death

  • Not annihilation (Luke 16:19-31)
  • Not soul sleep (Philippians 1:23)
  • Not floating spirit (2 Cor. 5:3)
  • Not reincarnation (Hebrews 9:27)
  • Not purgatory (Colossians 1:22)
  • Fall asleep on earth; wake up in heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:14)
  • Leave earthly tent; get heavenly dwelling fashioned for us (2 Cor. 5:1)
  • Be immediately at home with the Lord (2 Cor. 5:8)

Paul was considering the coming heavenly kingdom as he wrote 2 Timothy 4:1-18, especially verses 1 and 18. Paul was likely referring to the way all Christians will participate in Christ’s rule when they enter His presence. That will include His millennial reign on the earth.

18. Paul’s confidence in and appreciation of God is absolute, despite the cruelest of circumstances. Just as Paul praised God in life, what does he write in the face of death (end of v. 18)?

Final words

19. What do you learn about Paul’s friends and associates from the following verses? We will see them in heaven one day. 

  • Priscilla and Aquila (v. 19): Read Acts 18:2-3, 18, 26; Romans 16:3; and 1 Corinthians 16:19.
  • Onesiphorus (v. 19): Review also what is said about him in 2 Timothy 1:16-18.
  • Erastus (v. 20): Read Acts 19:22.
  • Trophimus (v. 20): Read Acts 20:4; 21:29.

Historical Insight: The rest are likely members of the church in Rome. Linus may have been the first bishop of Rome following the martyrdom of Peter and Paul.

20. What are Paul’s final words in v. 22, which are also words for you?

What application will you make to stay faithful to God?

21. When adversity strikes, what is your “proclamation” towards God? Do you ever search for God’s purpose amidst your pain, or do you usually try and get out of the situation on your terms? Pray that God will continually help you to respond more like Paul—to be aware of His presence, draw from His strength, and be yielded to His purpose for you.

Think About It: Every time God allows us to be in difficulty, it is a marvelous opportunity to give witness and testimony. The most powerful witness is from people in pain, still walking in faith with Jesus Christ...theirs is the kind of stalwart, courageous witness that shouts and proclaims God is real. (Charles Stanley)

22. From this study, what have you learned about making the choice to live faithfully to your God every day?

Respond to the Lord about what He’s shown you today.

© 2019.

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Passage: 
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Sources

1. 2 Timothy Life Change Bible Study

2. Charles Stanley quote

3. John Foxe, Foxes Book of Martyrs

4. John Stott, Bible Study Guide on 2 Timothy

5. Life Application Bible Commentary, 1 & 2 Timothy & Titus

6. The Word in Life Study Bible

7. Tim Stevenson, Mind Games sermon notes

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