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Q2. (2 Timothy 4:8) What does the "crown of righteousness" represent? To whom is it given? On what basis is it awarded? To me, the crown of righteousness represents all the desires of God's children for the Lord to come and take us out of here. Being steadfast, unmovable. refusing to give up and turn back. That is my understanding of this passage. Don't give up. Long for Him to come, and as far as I'm concerned, it can't happen fast enough!

Q1. (2 Timothy 4:6-7) What does it mean to have "fought the good fight" or "run the good race"? What does it take to "finish the race(course)" God has designed for you? What does it mean to "keep the faith"? To me, all of this culminates into one thought-persever to the end. Paul never deviated one iota from his goal. He had a job to do for the Lord, and he did it! To the very end of his days here on Earth, He was about his Father's business! That is how I want to be-about my Father's business. Staying the course-rooted and grounded! Gloray!

Q4. (2 Timothy 4:5) Why does Paul command Timothy to "discharge all the duties of your ministry"? What is the work of an evangelist that Timothy is to do? What does the command in verse 5 mean to you personally? To me, this means that no matter what may happen, we must do the right thing. We must seek to lead the people to Christ, no matter what the cost. Teach truth, be able to stand on the truth, and be patient with those that resist the truth. We cannot give up-we must persever. In my case, this would mean being patient with my husband. He refuses to listen. He tells me not to preach to him. But I know that God is speaking to his heart, and I refuse to give up! I want him to have what I have, and for this reason, I press on toward the mark for him to know Jesus. There is no special formula-we can just go to Him ourselves. It is so wonderful! Jesus is wonderful! Gotta go shout! bye!

Q3. (2 Timothy 4:1-2) Why do you think Paul has to resort to the command in verses 1-2? Why does he have to talk about being ready when it's inconvenient and when it is convenient? What problem is Paul trying to overcome here? How do these verses speak to you in particular? These verses tell me that I need to know what I am talking about whenever I tell someone or answer a question about Jesus, or any subject in the Bible. Study to show thyself approved-study the Word and know what you are talking about. We don't want God to look like a liar, or someone who doesn't know what He is doing! What we do and say reflects on Him, so we better know for sure!

Q2. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) In what ways does Scripture equip a Christian for ministry? In what different ways can the Scriptures function, according to verse 16? The Word can show us when we are wrong, show us how to correct others, it can build us up when we are down, it can calm our fears, it can show us the right thing to do. The Word can teach us how to handle other people who don't necessarily see things the way we do. The Word is the most important book that we can have in our house, and we must pick it up every day and read it, with help from the Spirit, to understand how to live and conduct ourselves in a godly way.

Q1. (2 Timothy 3:16) What does inspiration of Scripture mean? What does the term "God-breathed" tell us about the source and authority of Scripture? Why is the doctrine of inspiration of Scripture important? The Bible itsself says that every word in it is God-inspired-that means that God was dictating! The Holy Spirit moved certain men to write down what God was saying. We can believe that the Bible is the word of God because it says it is! If it weren't, why would we believe? I know that God's Word is in the Bible, and I know that He meant it for us. I thank God that it is this way-otherwise, how could I believe? How would I know that I am saved, and forgiven?

Q4. (2 Timothy 3:10-12) How does a failure to accept the inevitability of persecution hinder our witness? Just what does it mean to "take up his cross daily" (Luke 9:23) and to "carry his cross" (Luke 14:27)? Is Jesus talking about persecution -- or something else? If we are focused on the persecution, and not the carrying of the cross, then we will not be effective witnesses. It is not just about persecution-it is also about being obedient and trusting in God to be with us and help us through the trouble. Stepping out in faith and helping others find Jesus is the most important thing. It is not about me-it is about God and His will.

Q3. (2 Timothy 3:5) Why is it so easy to become a hypocrite? How can we prevent our faith from degenerating into "a form of religion" without the power? If I am blessed by God (and I am!), but I give the credit to myself, then it will be easy for me to become a hypocrite. This is what we do. Something good happens-we get a promotion, or we are able to make a major purchase, and we usually pat ourselves on the back because of our hard work and effort. We forget that it is God Who allows us to receive these things and enjoy them. We must always acknowledge God in all things. We need to realize that God is in every event, He is in every blessing, and without God, we would have nothing-we would be nothing. We are because He loves us! Gloray! It doesn't get any better than that!

Q2. (2 Timothy 2:24-25) In your own words, explain the various characteristics that enable a Christian teacher to correct opponents. How does the lack of any of these hinder the task? Having the Spirit of truth instructing us-telling us what to say. Studying the Word-knowing what it says about things that are being questioned. Praying and staying in touch with God about questions that we might have. For real, if we don't do these things, then God can not use us. We will not-can not be receptive to the teaching of the Holy Spirit. Without God, we can do nothing!

Q1. (2 Timothy 2:20-22). When do you put your good plates and silverware on the table? When do you use your everyday tableware? What point is Paul making with this example? In practical terms, how do we "cleanse ourselves" so that we might be useful and ready for the Lord's use? I only have one set of dishes, but I get the comparison. Paul is saying that if we completely clean ourselves, or get rid of all the things in our lives that we deem more important than God, then we will be able to concentrate on the things that are pleasing to God. Like really nice china. You want to bring it out when you have company to impress friends or relatives. But, if the visitors looked in the cabinets, they would see the true everyday dishes that may not look so attractive. Inside is what really matters-whatever does not separate us from God.

Q4. (2 Timothy 2:15) Exactly what is the analogy with a skilled workman that forms the basis for Paul's instruction to Timothy? How does this apply to our teaching of scripture today? We have to know what we are talking about when we discuss scripture. So many people are being lead astray because of teachers that don't know what they are talking about. How sad this is. If we would study-not just read-study the Word like we mean to learn the truth, then we would know if we are wrong or right and it does matter. We need the Holy Spirit guiding us and teaching us, so that we can teach others properly. Study, study, study!

Q3. (2 Timothy 2:3-7) Paul calls Timothy to endure hardship for the sake of the goal. What in the experience of a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer illustrate this well? Which of these examples speaks most strongly to you? They all have to put long hour in training and working for the goal. They have to follow a certain set of rules and regulations to achieve the prize. And they all must endure hardship and sacrifice in order to accomplish the desired end result. The farmer speaks most strongly to me, because I grew up watching and then participating in my Dad's vegetable garden every summer. It was a lot of hard work-hot sun, moskitos, you get the idea. But, in the winter, when grocery money was tight, we never had to worry about going hungry-well, we never worried about much of anything, because my parents were good providers, even though they weren't rich. We always had something to eat because of that garden.

Q2. Why do you think our churches tend not to declare the call to endurance and suffering? Why did Timothy tend to shy away from it? What is the result of a willingness to suffer for the gospel? Some people are afraid-afraid of dying, of pain, of doing without (food), etc. Some people just don't want to hear the truth. I know people who won't give in to God for fear that they will loose their lives. They think they will have to suffer like Christ did. Guess what? Some of us just might loose our lives for Jesus' sake. So what? We will reign with Christ! Whatever we loose here is nothing compared to what we will gain with Christ! Gloray! Bring it!

Q1. (2 Timothy 2:2) Why is it important for pastors and church leaders to execute a strategy of mentoring teachers and elders in a congregation? How much time should be devoted to this teaching of future leaders vs. the time spent in administration and programs? You want to be sure that the program that you have followed in teaching others will be followed to the letter. We must be faithful to the truth, no matter what. We need to make sure that those who are being taught are totally devoted to teaching the manner in which they have been taught and that they will teach the truth. This is of the utmost importance and time is not a factor. As much time as is needed should be spent.

Q4. (2 Timothy 1:12) According to verse 12, what is the source of Paul's fearlessness? What does he trust God to guard for him? Paul is saying that he believes that Christ will protect him and give him the courage he needs to do whatever needs to be done, and to go through what ever needs to be gone through. And Paul knows that God will protect whatever he has preached(as long as it is the truth) and cause it to grow. It don't get any better than that! Gloray!

Q3. (2 Timothy 1:8-10) Paul is writing to encourage timid Timothy. How is Paul's focus on Christ and the gospel designed to encourage Timothy? How is this an antidote for shame? I think if we focus on Christ, and get our minds off ourselves, then we will not be so conscious of our fear. My perspective is, whenever I doubt my salvation or the things that I have learned, then I run to my Bible and start reading the appropriate verses for whatever I fear. Also, I confess my fear, because to fear is to doubt God.

Q2. (2 Timothy 1:7-8, 12) Can you give examples of how cowardice and shame may have kept you from identifying yourself as a Christian on occasion? From testifying clearly about your faith? According to verse 12, what is the antidote for cowardice and shame? How then do we combat the cowardice and shame we might recognize in ourselves? I know people who do not believe that Jesus should be discussed everyday. Jesus is only for Sunday. On Sunday, I get the phrase "I don't want to hear it." At work (I work at a MickeyD's) Jesus can not be mentioned. Do not talk about religion at work. At first, the rules are intimidating-loss of job, or loosing friends or family, that sort of thing. But, put in the proper perspective, I have come to realize that my relationship with God is much more important than any job or family member. I don't want to throw away my relationship with God. So I ask Him to give me opportunities to witness, orteach, or whatever He wants me to do. And, in between these times, I try to live by example, though sometimes I fail. Mercy and forgiveness are priceless!

Q1. (2 Timothy 1:6) What advice would you give to a person who has let use of a spiritual gift or ministry lapse? How can a gift or ministry be rekindled? What might be involved in reclaiming use of such a gift? I would join hands with the person, and pray for them. Then I would advise them to go back and have hands laid on them for prayer and confession. An important aspect of reclaiming our relationship with God is confession-whatever pulled us away from Him must be confessed and repented of. Then, ask God to replenish and renew the gift-trust us to treat it with respect this time, and help us carry out the intended purpose for the gift.

Q5. (1 Timothy 6:20-21) How can we guard the faith without becoming narrow, backward-looking people who oppose all change, and complain about "what things are coming to"? How can guards be at the same time positive, loving, and pleasant to be around? We must stay in the Word. We must stay in prayer. Knowing what the Bible says, and talking to God and asking questions is really the best way to avoid the pitfalls. Knowing what we believe, and refusing to be tossed and turned around by all the various doctrines that are making the rounds in these times is the only way to avoid being lead astray. Read the Bible for yourself. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what is being said. Talk it over with other believers that study the Bible themselves, and want to know the truth. Don't take anyone elses word for what the Bible says.

Q4. (1 Timothy 6:17-19) What kinds of actions are the best antidote for the love of money? How can we cultivate generosity so that it remains healthy, rather than let it go overboard and hurt our families? For me, the answer lies in the prompting of The Holy Spirit. I have found that If I pray and ask God to show me how to give, or where, or who, then I will be lead in the right direction. Through job and money losses, my husband and I are not financially well off anymore, and that is ok, because Jesus can take a little bit and make mountains out of it. Remember the feeding of the five thousand? Ya godda let go and let God! He is in the miracle business! He wants to bless us, and He will, if we will just trust Him!

Q3. (1 Timothy 6:7-10) How does love for money grow? How does it become a trap? How do you escape this deceptive trap? Love for money grows when we turn our tv's on and are bombarded with the images and sounds of the wealthy and their endeavors to create more wealth. We see and hear commercials that speak of self-improvement, and phrases that speak of wanting more and aren't we worth it. Movies, and tv programs that show what life is like for the wealthy, and infomercials that proclaim instant wealth for a fee. It isn't long before we find ourselves longing for all the material wealth that we see others enjoying. Why can't we have it? We work hard-we deserve it, too! Study the Word of God everyday, and watch who and what you listen to! Realize that we have what we have because God gave it to us, and be grateful. Give thanks to The One who deserves our thanks and praise! Trust and obey for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey! Gloray!

Q2. (1 Timothy 6:6) Why should we seek contentment? Doesn't contentment keep us from trying to get ahead so our families can have what they need? What's the balance between contentment and the quest for improvement? This is my take on this matter, since I have been on both sides of the isle-so to speak. I believe that as we seek to know God better, we learn to trust in Him for our needs. That does not mean that we can not, or should not try to better ourselves. At the same time, we need to realize that seeking to better ourselves means sacrificing the things that really matter. For instance, we may be spending so much time with our job, that we forget that we have family at home that need our attention. Or, we may be spending our time trying to impress people connected with the job, or people in the community, and slip slowly in to ungodly living and habits. Love for money will separate us from God. We have to keep it in the proper perspective. I believe that if we take care of our responsibilities and raise our children in godly homes, then God will see to it that we have what we need and, sometimes, give us the things that we are not looking for in the way of blessing. Answer to our prayers and His precious presence-what more could we possibly need!

Q1. (1 Timothy 6:5) Why do you think people are so susceptible to distorted Bible teaching concerning financial gain? Admitting that there is some truth in popular teachings in our time, what are the distortions that you may have heard? How do they differ from the truth? I think that all of us want what we think is a better life, and the only way to get that better life is through money, inour human mind. Oftentimes, we tend to gage a man's worth by the amount of money he has in his bank acount. We clamor to find out the next big story as far as the rich and famous are concerned. We want to wear the same clothes, eat the same food, drive the same cars, etc. as the rich and famous. So when someone says that we can be prosperous through the Gospel of Christ, we tend to do whatever is required by these people, thinking that they must know what they are talking about. I fell into this trap many years ago, but thank God through Jesus Christ, I was delivered from this false idea! I was told that, because I didn't have enough faith, I could not receive the blessing from the Lord. I was also told the the more I give the more I receive. The truth is, God will and does bless us in many ways. It does not always involve money, and if we have faith as a grain of mustard seed, we will be able to move mountains. We just need to believe that God is who He says He is, and that He will do what He says He swill do. God doesn't need our money-it is already His! He just wants us to believe in Him! Gloray!

Q5. (1 Timothy 6:1-2) In what ways has the Gospel sown the seeds that will eventually destroy slavery? Why does Paul seem to condone slavery in this passage? What is Paul's motive? If we are saved, then we are brothers and sisters! Huge family! Think about it-family! We need to take care of each other, no matter what station we have in this life. We need to do the very best job we can in order to bring glory and honor to our Father. Paul does not condone slavery-he just shows that the Word makes provision for slaves. Slaves, like the rest of us, have to conduct their lives in a Godly manner, and our Lord makes it clear that this is the case, no matter who we are, or where we come from. In the end, we will all be blessed, more so than now, and we will all be together in the same place. Like I said-one big family! Gloray!

Q4. (1 Timothy 5:22-25) Why does Paul say, "Don't be hasty in the laying on of hands"? What are the dangers in doing so? How can these dangers be lessened? It is important that we get to know someone before we give them responsibility. With time, good and bad things come out. Also, we are responsible for conducting all our church affairs in a Godly manner, so that we do not set a bad example, and so that our decisions don't come back to "haunt" us.