Live as a Good Soldier
November 10, 2024
Live Like a Good Soldier
2 Timothy 2:3-4
Intro: Do you know that individuals in the US armed Force are not the only ones known as soldiers? As followers of Christ, we are to be good soldiers possessing these characteristics.
1.
– 2 Timothy 2:4
A. Don’t Be
B. Do Be
2.
by Grace – 2 Timothy 2:1
Illustrate: The importance of a supply line to complete the mission.
A. Grace Gives
B. Grace Gives
It is in Christ’s strength that Paul endured suffering and would make the ultimate sacrifice (4:6, 4:17).
3.
Service – 2 Timothy 2:3, 4:5
A.
B.
- We change the pronoun.
- We change our will.
Good soldiers are prepared to make any sacrifice for the cause of freedom, so good soldiers of Jesus Christ are prepared to make any sacrifice for the cause of Christ.
Conclusion: Private James Ryan wanted assurance that his life was not wasted.
Let that be our desire, to live not only a good life, but a life as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. We are undeserving of His life being given for us.
Small Group Questions
- What comes to your mind when you think of a soldier?
- What are similarities between a good soldier in the US military and a good soldier of Jesus Christ?
- Read 2 Timothy 2:4 - What does it mean that Christ enlisted us as soldiers? Why should this compel us to please Him?
- Read Matthew 6:31-34; Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 12:28-31:
1 John 2:15-17. What do these verses say concerning ways that we might be either entangled or engaged as good soldiers of Jesus?
- How have you seen God’s supply of strengthening grace make a difference in your ability to be strong as a Christ-follower?
- Romans 12:1 informs us that we are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice to God. What does this mean and what are ways that we can do so?
- How is God calling you to think differently about what it means to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ?
- How does this study challenge me as I go about my day to day?