Next: First Things First Study #6
Critical Kingdom Relationships in the Gospel
2 Timothy 4:9-22
INTRODUCTION: There is some Scripture we wonder about, right? Like this passage. Is this Spirit-breathed scripture? What profit could there be in a list of personal requests and notes about people – where they are going, what they are doing? Yet before we dismiss what may appear mundane, a closer look reveals a treasure of helpful examples, and even instruction. We are called to become strong, and to draw strength from, others who are following the Master and serving His kingdom business.
GETTING STARTED – Talk about your most important relationships in Christ
- Who are the 3-5 people who are most important to you in your growing relationship with Christ?
- Why are they important to you? What support or encouragement do you receive from them?
- What about those relationships which have been more disappointing? How have you worked through a relationship gone sour?
IN THE WORD – Let’s take a closer look at 2 Timothy 4:9-22. READ first, then observe and list the following—
- What are the positive relationships Paul cites
- What are the difficult relational challenges Paul notes
Do you think Demas was a genuine Christian? (cf. Col. 4:12-14) Can Christians desert? (cf. 1 John 2:15-17, 2 Tim 2:11-13)
How do you explain Paul’s renewed confidence in Mark? (vs. 11, cf. Acts 15:36-41)
What do we know about Prisca and Aquilla (vs.19)?
Why are they special to Paul? (Acts 18:2,18,26)
Where have we heard of Onesiphorus before? (vs.19)
Didn’t Paul have the gift of healing? How do you explain himnot “healing” Trophimus”? (vs. 20)
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE RELATIONSHIP LESSONS YOU GLEAN FROM THESE VERSES? State them below:
EVAL, DISCUSS AND APPLY – As you think about your relationships in the body of Christ, what specific examples and actions do you take from this passage that will ENHANCE YOUR PRACTICE of building up those strengthening relationships available in the body of Christ?