21: A Good Worker of Jesus Christ (2Tim 2:1-26)

I.       The Basics

A.     Setting

In the opening chapter, Paul encouraged Timothy to press on in the calling and ministry of God even in the face of adversity. In this chapter, Paul teaches Timothy how to be a good worker of God. The attributes of a good worker can be broadly classified into three aspects: endurance in hardship, faithfulness to the truth, and godly character.

B.     Key Verse

            “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2:15).

II.    Observation

A.     Outline

(2:1-13)

(2:14-18)

(2:19-26)

B.     Key Words/Phrases

III. General Analysis

1.       Record the various metaphors in this passage that represent the minister of the gospel.

IV.  Segment Analysis

A.     2:1-13

1. What instructions does Paul give to Timothy to ensure that the ministry of the word continues (1-3)?

2. What does it mean to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus?

3. What can we learn about our ministry based on Paul’s instruction to Timothy to commit the word to faithful men?

4. What do the metaphors of soldier, athlete, and farmer teach about the minister of the gospel?

5. What “affairs of this life” should you not entangle yourself with?

6a. Based on Paul’s encouragement in 8-13, how can a worker of God be motivated to endure hardship?

6b. Who is the key person in verses 8-13?

B.     2:14-18

7. What three things does Paul command Timothy to do to guard the truth? Explain what each of these means.

8. What do the words “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God” teach you in terms of your service?

9. What happens when false teachings are tolerated in the church?

10. What false teaching does Paul mention specifically?

C.     2:19-26

11. Record the contrasts in this paragraph.

12a. Explain the meaning of verse 19. In particular, what do the words “the Lord knows those who are His” mean? (cf. Num 16:5).

12b. Verse 19 is a transitional verse between the last and present paragraphs. How does this verse relate to the last paragraph?

13a. Based on this paragraph, what are required of the Lord’s servant?

13b. In short, in terms of a person’s qualification to serve God, what does God value the most?

14. What common characteristic do you see in “flee” and “pursue”? What lesson can we learn from the choice of these two words?