2 Timothy 1:1–7 | Resources
Intro
In this opening passage of 2 Timothy, Paul writes with deep affection and urgency to his spiritual son, Timothy. Facing the end of his life, Paul encourages Timothy to remember his spiritual heritage, to boldly use the gifts God has given him, and to resist fear. Paul reminds him that the Holy Spirit doesn’t produce timidity but instead fills us with power, love, and self-discipline. This is a powerful moment of mentorship. Paul is passing the torch. And his words still speak to us today. Many of us have spiritual influences in our past, and all of us are called to live courageously for Christ in the present. The question is: are we fanning our flame or letting it flicker out? This week’s text and sermon will help us reflect on how God has shaped our faith, what holds us back, and how we can step forward with boldness and trust.
Pray: Father, use your Word in my heart for my sanctification and your glorification.
Passage: 2 Timothy 1:1–7
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, for the sake of the promise of life in Christ Jesus:
2 To Timothy, my dearly loved son.
Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3 I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience as my ancestors did, when I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day. 4 Remembering your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and now, I am convinced, is in you also.
6 Therefore, I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.
Prayer
“Lord, thank You for the people who have poured into my faith: family, mentors, or friends. Help me to honor their legacy by walking in sincere faith and by becoming a spiritual influence for someone else.”
“Father, help me to fan into flame the gifts You’ve placed in me. Where I’ve grown passive, rekindle passion. Where I’ve been afraid, fill me with courage. I want to use what You’ve given me for Your glory.”
“God, I confess the fears that hold me back: fear of failure, rejection, or inadequacy. Replace that fear with Your Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. Teach me to live boldly and faithfully for You.”
Memory Verse
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgement.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Supplemental Reading
Romans 8:15–30
Gospel Connection
In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul commends Timothy for his “sincere faith,” a faith that first lived in his grandmother and mother, and now lives in him. This reminds us that the core of the Christian life is not based on religious performance, moral behavior, or tradition, but on a genuine, personal trust in Jesus Christ. Christianity is not inherited by culture or earned by good works, it’s received through sincere faith in the gospel: that Jesus died for our sins and rose again to give us new life. Paul’s encouragement to Timothy points us back to this foundational truth: real spiritual life begins and continues by trusting in Christ alone.
Discussion/Reflection Questions
1. How is your calling different from Paul’s? How is it similar?
2. Who would you say has been your spiritual mentor? Do you currently have someone spiritually mentoring you?
3. What spiritual mentorship role has God laid on your heart? How has He equipped you to fulfill it?
4. Fear or timidity can hold us back from sharing our faith or using our gifts. What fears tend to limit you, and how does this passage encourage you to move forward in faith?
5. Often we use these three words when it comes to knowing God’s will for your life: calling, character, and competency? Do you have all of these? Which do you need help with?
Action step: Ask someone to meet with you regularly for discipleship and accountability.