PREACH THE WORD

2 Timothy 4:1-22

Key Verse 4:1, 2

1. Compare the following exhortations with what Paul says in verse 1. 

1) Preach the Word (2a); 

2) Be prepared in season and out of season (2b); 

3) Correct, rebuke and encourage (2c);

4) Keep your head in all situations (3-5a); 

5) Endure hardship (5b); 

6) Do the work of an evangelist (5c); and 

7) Discharge all the duties of your ministry (5d).

What is the purpose of a ministry? (1) What does each of the exhortations mean? How are they related to one another? 

2. In verse 6, Paul uses the word "departure". What does "departure" suggest about the way Paul understands death? (2Co 5:1-8; John 14:2; Hebrews 11:10)

3. In verse 7, Paul sums up his life. For what did Paul "fight"? What can we learn from Paul who says, "I have finished the race"? 

4. Compare what Paul says in verses 6-7 with what he says in verse 8. What is the significance of "the crown of righteousness"? 

5. Look at verses 9-22. How many names are listed? What does "my ministry" (11), "our message" (15), or "the message" (17) indicate about why the way Paul speaks of each individual is not the same? 

6. What do the following statements tell us about Paul's relationship with Timothy?

1) Do your best to come to me quickly (9); and

2) Do your best to get here before winter (21).

What can we learn from Timothy? 

7. Paul says, "The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength" (17) or "The Lord will rescue me..." (18). What can we learn from Paul in serving the Lord?