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LIFE GROUP STUDY

May 31st - June 6th

Let's Pray:

(again…thank you for allowing these few moment to have integrity.  It is okay to ask for and allow God to speak to your group.  Maybe today is a “defining few moments” for your group.  As a result of Scripture, let’s pray that we will never be the same and never look back…Paul did… “forgetting what is behind”)

  • Ask God to teach you about friendship, mentorship, and faithfulness.
  • Continue to pray for your four that God has placed on your heart for Heaven.
  • Pray for God-ordained opportunities to tell someone this week of your hope that is in Christ.
  • Pray for an incredible summer ahead for kids, students etc.
  • Your group…

Fun Little Exercise:

The “MUG”

Have your group think about their daily favorite MUG or water bottle that for some reason they can’t seem to part from it…ask them to share the story behind it.  How did they acquire it…??  Why is it their favorite…??

THEN…

Explain that just as a specific mug might be a go-to comfort, the apostle Paul was a trusted, go-to mentor for Timothy.

THINK of the “Paul” in your life…(have others do the same) and the time in your life when they taught you valuable life skills, helped shape your faith and were willing to spend time with you…

  • What was the value of that relationship…??
  • What might be one lesson from your “Paul” that you would want to pass on to your “Timothy”…??

Scripture Focus:

As you read the following passages, think through the questions below…

  • Acts 16:1–5
  • Philippians 2:19–22
  • 2 Timothy 1:1–7
  • 2 Timothy 4:9–13
  • 2 Timothy 2:2
  • Matthew 28:18-20

(Obviously, you may not get to each of what is above in your study…yet try to take a moment and re-familiarize yourself with these passages before you meet this week.  The principles will be a good focus for you to internalize before your time with friends.)

Discuss:

What stands out most about their relationship…??
Which quality do you admire most in Paul…??
Which quality do you admire most in Timothy…??
How can Christian friendships become deeper and more meaningful…??

Application:

Identify:

  • one person you can encourage this week as a Paul or even as a Timothy…
  • one mentor you call up this week and process an issue in your life 
  • one area where you can become more faithful to a friend
  • How can this Life Group facilitate a greater expectation for spiritual maturity…??
Major Lessons from Paul and Timothy’s relationship (the following truths regarding spiritual maturity could be discussed) 
1. God Uses Relationships to Grow People

Spiritual growth often happens through close discipleship.

2. Encouragement Matters

Paul continually strengthened Timothy’s confidence.

3. Faithfulness Builds Trust

Timothy proved dependable over time.

4. Leadership Should Be Passed On

Paul intentionally prepared the next generation.

5. Christian Friendship Has Eternal Purpose

Their relationship centered on serving Christ together.

Spend a Few Moments:

(give highlight to two of our Core Values at FIRST.  Allow for a discussion as to how these Scriptural values have helped shape the culture of FIRST)

  • We believe that life-change happens best in Bible Study Small Groups. Luke 6:12-13; Acts 2:44-47

  • We believe disciple making is one of the essential callings for every believer. 2 Timothy 2:2, Matthew 28:18-20

Closing Prayer:

“Lord, thank You for the example of Paul and Timothy. Teach us to build friendships that strengthen faith, encourage perseverance, and help others grow in Christ. Help us become trustworthy, courageous, and loving people who invest in others well. Amen.”