How do we apply these principles?
- Do we take grace for granted? We are so used
to “grace” that we may miss its necessity and reality in
everyday life. What are the implications of Paul telling Timothy to be “strengthened by the grace that is in Christ
Jesus”? What are some other “resources” for strength? That is, where do we turn for strength when we don’t look
to His grace? Ephesians 1:3-14
- Do we outsource discipleship? Before following Jesus became “Christianity” and all of its institutions,
churches were training centers for leaders, pastors, and teachers. Why aren’t they now? Why do we assume that
Bible colleges and seminaries should do all of the training for men in ministry? What are some advantages to
church-based training? How can these institutions partner with local churches in mutually beneficial, meaningful
ways?
- What about these three images? Paul uses the analogies of soldiering, farming, and athletic competition
in helping Timothy to relate to his tasks. List at least two implications of each of these pictures for leaders and
would-be leaders.
- God’s Sovereignty or Man’s Responsibility?
We tend to make these mutually exclusive categories, but
Paul works hard so that “the elect” might be saved! Why is
it so important to believe and apply BOTH? And how do God’s CERTAIN glory and plan motivate us to be faithful
and responsible?
Lownes Free Church Bible Study Notes