Explore The New TestamentSample

SAY WHAT? (What is the passage saying?)

• Timothy’s mother and grandmother had faith. Paul said their faith was sincere and that it also lived in Timothy.
• Paul says that Christians shouldn't have a spirit of fear but rather one of power, love, and self-discipline.
• In verses 8-12 Paul explains that the gospel (good news about Jesus) is so amazing, it needs to be shared with everyone, and it's worth suffering for if necessary. Paul wasn't ashamed in any way to suffer for the cause of Jesus and His gospel.

SO WHAT? (What are the underlying principles?)

• We see from Timothy's example that family can have a profound impact (positive or negative) on children’s relationship with God.
• We see in this passage that Timothy had a "gift" (that he was encouraged to "fan into flame") and that he was invited to join in Paul's mission of being a "herald" (someone who carries and shares important news) of the gospel. The same is true for every follower of Jesus. We each are given gifts by God which we are to use to serve others, and we are all heralds meant to share the gospel with everyone we can.

NOW WHAT? (How will you personally apply this passage?)

• How did your family impact your faith? In a good way, that you should thank them for? Or in a negative way, that you may still need to deal with? And, if you have kids, how are you teaching them to trust and obey God?
• Are you using your gifts to serve others? By volunteering in church? Outside the church? And are you being a herald? You need to share Jesus with others, even if you have to suffer to do so. How can you live all this out this week?