Things I’ve Been Wondering, Part 2
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Things I’ve Been Wondering, Part 2
1. Who do you view as a spiritual mentor?
Paul writes to Timothy with deep affection, calling him "my beloved son" and blessing him with grace, mercy, and peace. This reflects a profound spiritual mentorship. Paul consistently prays for Timothy, showing us the value of having someone older and further along in faith to guide and support us.
Who is your Paul? Who mentors you, guides you, and prays for you as you pursue Christ? We were never meant to follow Jesus alone.
2. Who are you praying habitually for, and do they know?
Paul tells Timothy that he prays for him night and day. This is more than just a throwaway phrase; it’s a pattern of care. The habit of prayer for others can strengthen relationships, encourage the person being prayed for, and help anchor your heart in love.
Who do you pray for regularly? Do they know? If not, tell them. It will bless both of you.
3. How would you describe your faith?
Paul remembers Timothy’s "sincere and unqualified faith," which was passed down through his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. This is not inherited faith by name only—it’s a lived-out, deeply rooted belief.
If you had to describe your faith in a few words, what would they be? Would others around you say the same? Is it vibrant? Shallow? Growing? Consider asking someone you trust for their honest view.
4. What legacy of faith are you leaving?
Faith often flows through generations, as we see in Timothy’s family. Even though Timothy’s father isn’t mentioned, the impact of his mother and grandmother was enough to shape his sincere belief.
What legacy are you leaving behind? If you're a parent or grandparent, how are you cultivating faith in the next generation? If you're single or don't have kids, what spiritual heritage are you building in the lives of those around you?
5. What might you need to fan into flame in your faith?
Paul urges Timothy to "fan into flame the gracious gift of God," the inner fire given at his ordination. Fires need fuel. Without consistent feeding, our spiritual fervor dwindles.
What gift, habit, or passion has grown cold in your walk with Christ? Is it time in the Word, time in prayer, serving, or speaking boldly? Identify what needs rekindling.
6. What if the Spirit God has given us is the key to living like Jesus?
Paul reminds Timothy that "God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but... a spirit of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline."
These three qualities—power, love, and self-discipline—are gifts of the Spirit and crucial for living out our faith boldly and fruitfully. Power without love becomes harsh. Love without self-control becomes aimless. All three are necessary.
Power
This is not worldly power, but "dunamis"—effective, productive, God-given power to fulfill His purpose.
Love
Love is the essential ingredient to living as God designed. It’s the greatest commandment, the defining trait of God, and the true measure of our spiritual lives.
Self-Control
This is the ability to think clearly, act wisely, and stay balanced in a world of chaos. It creates a "non-anxious presence," allowing you to reflect Jesus even in turbulent times.
Final Reflection
What if the spirit God has given us—this power, love, and sound mind—isn’t just a gift for personal comfort, but the actual way we live like Jesus in a broken world? What if this Spirit is the key to showing grace instead of rage, conviction instead of cowardice, and clarity instead of confusion?
Receive the Spirit God has given. Fan into flame the gift within you. Ask the hard questions. And live like Jesus.
SERMON DETAILS
Speaker: Ben Marshall
Series Title: Things I’ve Been Wondering
Sermon Title: Things I’ve Been Wondering, Part 2
Date: Jan 7, 2024
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
2 Timothy 1:1–7
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