P’s and Q’s : II Timothy 2:11-22
“If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.” (verse 13)
- Describe God’s faithfulness as written in this passage.
God’s character is unchangeable. He cannot deny the fact that he is always FAITHFUL, even when we aren’t.
How will you respond to that?
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“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (verse 15)
- The Bible is God’s “Word of Truth.” What is this passage asking us to do with the scriptures?
We have a responsibility to handle God’s Word accurately. We need to study diligently, not only to defend the faith, but to know the difference between something worth battling over, and something which is just a distracting argument.
How can you accomplish that on a daily basis?
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“But avoid worldly and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness…” (verse 16)
- How much time do you spend talking about sports, social media, gossip, guys, girls, friends, parties, buying stuff, food, etc.?
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How much time do you spend talking about God?
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How does empty chatter lead to ungodliness?
Colossians 3 talks about feeding the spirit over feeding the flesh… empty chatter feeds the flesh which leads to ungodliness. This type of talk isn’t centered around Christ, nor does it bring glory to Christ, so it should be avoided.
“Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and, ‘Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.’”
(verse 19)
- What does scripture mean when it says to “abstain from wickedness?”
To abstain from anything/everything that is contrary to the commands of the Lord.
“Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” (verses 20 & 21)
- “Useful to the Master.” What an amazing challenge! According to this passage, what do you need to become “useful to the Master?”
To become useful to our Lord and Savior, you must die to the “wickedness” and “dishonor” you formerly lived in.
What does that challenge mean to you personally?
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“Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” (verse 22)
- What does it mean to “free youthful lusts?”
When we were unbelievers, we walked in “youthful lusts” and were in bondage to that sin. Now that we are in Christ, we are called to flee from those old habits.
How is scripture asking you, specifically, to respond to this charge?
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- What does God mean by “pursuing righteousness?”
Righteousness is an internal pursuit. God calls us to pursue Him and He, Himself, IS righteousness. By pursuing God by reading His Word and praying, we are striving to become more like Him.
