Jamie’s final sermon, his final challenge to Central is to preach the Word. In 2 Timothy 4, we see Paul urging Timothy to preach the Word. Jamie sees in 2 Timothy 4:1-8 a reminder, requirement, and reward. How long have you been attending Central? With all the sermons Jamie has preached, which one stands out to you the most? Discuss.

Paul reminds us our work in God’s Kingdom is eternally important. Read 2 Timothy 4:1-2. Why does Paul tell us to focus on eternal things more than temporary? Why think long term, why eternal values?

Jamie said, “When you stand before God as your judge, it wont matter how much money you made, how much pleasure you enjoyed, what titles you wore. When life on earth is over, and you stand before the Eternal Judge, the things that will matter are, did you know Jesus? Were you a person of integrity? Did you love and serve His people?” Read John 17:3. What do you preach? By the way you live and talk, what do you show and share with others? Discuss.

The church has a duty. To seek and save the lost. Jamie mentioned that is why what we do in the church is so important. “Here we are bringing people to Jesus and preparing them to face eternity with hope and forgiveness. We are reminding Christians to focus on things above, not earthly things.” Read Colossians 1:17-18 and Colossians 3:2 (MSG Version). Do you think the world understands the church? Do you think the world understands the love Christians have for each other? Explain.

Our responsibility is to preach God’s Word no matter how it’s received. Read 2 Timothy 4:2. This isn’t just a command to preachers. Read what Jesus tells every Christian in Matthew 28:19. In what creative ways could, or do you share God’s Word? Discuss.

Read 2 Timothy 4:3-4. People don’t want to hear the truth. They want to hear the lies. But share the truth in love, even if it rebukes or is counterculture. Read 2 Timothy 4:5. If you really want to be relevant, be eternal. Jamie mentioned culture changes, but only Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. How have you seen the power of God’s Word work in your life? Your family or friends? Discuss.

Read Mark 4:30-31. Jamie has been in the ministry for 40 years. He is still amazed at the power of God’s Word when it’s preached. Read Hebrews 4:12. The reward for preaching the Word is priceless. Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8 and Mark 10:29-30. Close in prayer by praying for Jamie and his wife Tammy. Pray they feel loved and appreciated by Central Christian Church. Ask God to bless them as Jamie retires. Pray for Jon and Sarah, that as their journey begins, God would equip Jon to run the race set before him, and to always preach the Word. Read Ephesians 3:20-21 in closing. Amen.