Group Notes | September 18
Unfinished: A Work Worth Doing
September 18, 2016
Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Open:
An insightful question to ask young people is, “If you could choose any vocation you wanted, what would it be?” What answer would you give if you were asked that today, as an adult? Is your work satisfying to you?
We are in a series called “Unfinished,” looking at Paul’s final words to Timothy. Paul was soon to be executed but penned loving instructions for those who would continue the mission of spreading the Gospel. He had faithfully carried out what he knew God had called him to do. Let’s apply these words to our own lives in today’s world.
Discuss:
Never be ashamed
- Read 2 Timothy 1:8-18. In verse 8a, why does Paul tell Timothy not to be ashamed of the testimony of Jesus, or of Paul? How does this parallel the night of the crucifixion, when Peter and the other apostles fled?*
- Why should you never be ashamed of being a Christian, when you have the opportunity to take a stand?
Because you are called
- Read verse 9. What is the “holy calling” He called you to pursue?
- Why did He call you? When did He call you? Can you truly understand that?
With the message of life
- Read verse 10. Why do we say that Jesus “abolished” death, and that it has been defeated? Do you fear death any longer, or just the uncertainty in the way by which it may come?
Though the journey might be tough
- Read verse 12a. We are seeing the times getting tough for Christians all over the world. What are some of the ways Christianity is being attacked? Ask yourself, will I be strong enough to face tough times for my Lord?
God is faithful
- Read verse 12b. How do you know He is faithful? Look back at your life; has He ever left you? Can you think of a time when you doubted Him because He answered a prayer with “No”?
You are not alone
- What “good thing” is Paul referring to in verse 14? When do you receive the Holy Spirit? Will He ever leave you?
Close:
Can you put yourself in Paul’s place, where he was perhaps only days away from being executed for his faith? He had undergone brutal persecution most of his years after becoming a believer, but had never turned away from the great work God had called him to do.** Now he was preparing others to take up the gauntlet and continue making Christ-followers. As you discuss or think about your courage in the face of persecution, what are your concerns? It is pertinent that you realize some people who turn away and reject God do so because He has answered fervent prayer with “No.” Yet truly trusting Him means trusting that His way is always the right way, even when you do not understand (questions 6, 7 and 8). Pray for each other diligently that no one will fall by the wayside, but rely on the Holy Spirit to empower all in your group to take every opportunity to stand for the name of Jesus. If you need extra time to study, find a Life Group that will help you to witness, spreading the good news on your street, in your job, or in your community. God simply asks that you be available for Him to use!
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 1:12: “For this reason I also suffer these things, nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.”
Focal Passage: 2 Timothy 1:8-18; John 1:12
Home Study: **Read 2 Corinthians 11:23b-28 for Paul’s list of persecution which he had suffered. *Read Mark 14:27-50, 66-72 for the account of the apostles turning their backs on the Savior, and Peter’s denials (question 2).