Week Four     II Timothy

Remember how David was described as a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22)? Studying the Psalms definitely helps us have that same goal. There is a similar thought seen in Paul’s life, which he is passing on to Timothy.

Timothy was someone very close to Paul, and he said that he had no one else like him. You can see how much he believed in Timothy. He had a great vision for his life. 

Sometimes that faith and hope in people causes you to invest a great deal of time in them. You also know what the challenges will be for them to live up to their expectations. 

Anyone whose desire is to be a man or woman totally devoted to God will get a great deal of practical and personal help from this second letter to Timothy. 

And if you have the desire to help someone else live up to his/her potential, you will see a great pattern to follow in this letter as well.

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. (II Timothy 2:15)

a. Instead of a spirit of timidity, what has God given us (1:7)?           

b. Knowing the one in whom we believe gives us confidence about what (1:12)?           

d. How do you think it would have felt to be deserted by everyone (1:15)?           

a. Talent is sometimes over-rated. One thing God is looking for is reliability. If Timothy were looking for reliable people today to pass on the Gospel (2:2), would you be one of those?           

b. What do you learn from the three illustrations that Paul used (2:3 – 6):

                        -- the good soldier

                        -- the competing athlete

                        -- the hardworking farmer           

c. What do you think it means to “reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this” (2:7)?           

d. How do you think Paul is encouraging Timothy (and you) by saying that God’s word is not chained (2:9)?           

e. Be determined to be a reliable person who will pass on to others what you have received.

Read II Timothy 2:11 – 26.           

a. What do you think Paul means when he talks about a trustworthy saying (2:11)?           

                        -- is that your goal in life?

                        -- does that describe your effort?           

c. What does Paul say about arguing and why is that important to a man of God? Does that mean that you never disagree with anyone?           

e. Live out today with the picture in mind that you are presenting yourself to God.

a. What stands out to you about the terrible times described in 3:1 – 9?           

b. What does Paul say should be expected for everyone who lives a godly life (3:12)? Does that surprise you?           

c. Where did Timothy receive his foundation in the Scriptures?           

Remember that as you continue to study God’s word for your life. The man of God being thoroughly equipped for every good work. That sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

a. Paul’s charge to Timothy. What is the power behind that charge (4:1)? What was the charge (4:2 – 5)?           

b. What do you think is meant by itching ears (4:3) and does that happen today?           

c. How does the instruction to “keep your head in all situations” (4:5) apply to you?           

d. Paul mentions the good fight (4:7) as he has several time in the letters to Timothy. What is your conviction about that now?           

f. Paul is at peace as he comes to the end of his life. But he wants Timothy to be the man of God that passes on what he has received. How about you?

Deep Conviction: did you get it?

As you close this week’s study, write a summary of your convictions.

Call or visit someone and share your thoughts from this week’s studies.

Recommended Scripture:   Psalm 46

Recommended Song:    I Know Whom I Have Believed