
*Observation:
- Did anything about the weekend’s service stand out or make you think in a new way?
- Describe a time that you have felt called to do something outside of your comfort zone. Did you rely on your abilities or God’s power and strength? What was the result?
3 I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. —2 Timothy 1:3-7
**Interpretation:
How would you describe Paul’s relationship with Timothy?
How often does Paul pray for Timothy? How does Paul pray for Timothy? Why does he pray this way for Timothy?
Why is Paul so sure of Timothy’s faith? In what ways did Lois and Eunice potentially influence Timothy’s faith?
Why does Timothy need a reminder to “fan the flame”? What gift(s) of God needed to be flamed in his life? What gift(s) of God need to be flamed in your life?
Paul reminds Timothy that the gift is inside of him, given graciously by God. Why is this significant for Timothy to remember?
God has given Timothy (and all believers) a spirit of power, love, and self-control. Describe a spirit of power. Describe a spirit of love. Describe a spirit of self-control.
How would power, love, and self-control be beneficial for Timothy? How would power, love, and self-control be beneficial for you?
Looking ahead to verse 8, why does Paul want Timothy to remember this?
**This section is recommended for those who are using the Sermon-Based Study with their Life Group.
***Application:
From time to time, every Christian needs the assurance that God will never commission anyone for a task without giving them the special gift(s) needed to complete the task. We need to be reminded that it is by His power, love, and self-control working in us, that we are able to accomplish anything in His name. What task has God commissioned you for? What gift(s) has He given you to complete this task? What are your next steps (action plan) in following God’s plan for you?
Share with your Life Group what God is showing you and your next steps (action plan) to follow Him.
***We suggest that all Life Groups complete this section.