Bible Study: Stay true to the word
2 Timothy 3:14-4:4
Click here to read the passage, 2 Timothy 3:14-4:4.
Stay true to the word
Every Christian is called to keep on learning and living God’s Word. Paul tells us to run the race — not to be “the winner,” but to finish.
Paul, writing from prison, exhorts Timothy to continue in the teachings he has received, emphasizing the divine authority of Scripture. The Word of God is inspired, profitable for teaching, correction, and equipping believers.
As Paul nears the end of his life, he charges Timothy to preach boldly and persistently, warning that people will increasingly reject truth in favor of comforting falsehoods. Timothy must remain watchful and faithful in his ministry.
Key Takeaways
Scripture is God-breathed – It is the ultimate authority for faith and life.
The Word equips believers – It trains us for righteousness and prepares us for every good work.
Preach the truth boldly – Even when people turn away, we must remain faithful.
False teaching will increase – People will seek messages that suit their desires rather than submit to God’s truth.
Endurance in ministry is essential – We are called to remain steadfast, regardless of challenges.
Quotes
R.C. Sproul (Reformed pastor who died in 2017): “The Scriptures are absolutely necessary for our spiritual growth and perseverance, for without them, we would be left to the whims of human opinion.”
Alistair Begg (senior pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland since 1983): “A faithful preacher is not an innovator but a steward, charged with proclaiming the truth, not reshaping it to fit the culture.”
Tim Keller (Presbyterian pastor who died in 2023): “The greatest danger to the church is not outright opposition but the slow drift away from biblical truth.”
Questions
Which of the above three quotes stand out to you and why?
What does it mean that Scripture is “God-breathed” (3:16), and how should that shape our view of the Bible?
How does Scripture equip us for every good work (3:17)?
Why do you think people reject sound doctrine in favor of what “their itching ears want to hear” (4:3)?
What are some modern examples of people turning away from the truth?
How can we lovingly but firmly stand for biblical truth in a culture that often rejects it?
How can we guard ourselves against false teaching?