Why is it so hard to tell someone a truth that could set them free? More than half of Christians admit they are afraid to speak about Jesus, afraid of rejection, of judgement, of a question they cannot answer. This sermon turns to Paul’s last letter, written from prison to Timothy (2 Timothy 4), where the apostle commands: preach the word in season and out of season, but do it wisely and patiently. Listen and see why Paul, at the end, called that hard struggle a beautiful fight.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Paul writes 2 Timothy 4:1-10 from prison in Rome, expecting to die. What does it tell us about him that in this situation his final charge is: "Preach the word"?
- Paul warns of a time when people will gather teachers who tell them what they want to hear. Where do you see this today, for example in the prosperity gospel mentioned in the sermon?
- Paul calls us to be ready "in season and out of season", yet to act skillfully and patiently. What does the story of Bob and the woman he first supported teach about holding these two together?
- The sermon lists many fears: rejection, judgment, hard questions, being a hypocrite. Which of these most often keeps you from telling others about Jesus, and why?
- Paul sums up his life: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." According to the sermon, what makes the fight of sharing the gospel beautiful despite its costs and hardships?
- Think of one person around you: what do they need most right now, and how can you meet that need this week and share who God is to you?
