A church that practices repentance stays focused on the gospel, keeps raising new leaders, faithfully teaches the Bible, and seeks health in order to bring God glory and make an eternal difference.

KEY VERSES

2 Timothy 2:19-21 (NASB)

19 Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His;” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to keep away from wickedness.” 20 Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver implements, but also implements of wood and of earthenware, and some are for honor while others are for dishonor. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be an implement for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. 24 The Lord’s bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, skillful in teaching, patient when wronged, 25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

UNDERSTANDING

• Share about a time when you made a drastic personal life change. What was it? Why did you make the change? How is your life different now because of that change?

• Do you know what the word “repentance” means? How do you practice it? Why is the practice of repentance essential to the spiritual health of believers?

• What do verses 20-21 tell us about how we should respond to irreverent, empty speech in the church (see v. 16)? What is promised to those who respond this way (v. 21)?

• What does Paul’s challenge to Timothy in verses 20-21 tell us about the importance of repentance in the local church? How might we help one another regularly practice repentance?

• Are youthful passions always sinful? What are young people typically passionate about? What are older adults typically passionate about? How might some of these things stand in the way of Christian devotion and maturity?

• What did Paul challenge believers to do with regard to their sinful passions? What does this look like?

• There is more to repentance than merely ceasing from sinful behavior. What are we to pursue instead? How are such pursuits essential to the process of true repentance?

• What are some practical things we can do to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, particularly in place of sinful things?

• How could we reject a foolish, unprofitable dispute without being drawn into a quarrel over the issue (v. 23)?

• What attitude did Paul say we should have toward our opponents (vv. 25-26)? How do we balance the charge to guard the church from error and impurity with the hope we are to hold out for all people?

• How are kindness and gentleness related to spiritual warfare according to this Scripture? Toward whom do you struggle with being kind and gentle? About what are you most likely to argue?

• How should remembering that you are the Lord’s servant affect your view of yourself and of others?

• How does a firm understanding of and confidence in the kingdom of God allow us to engage other people with kindness and gentleness?
  

APPLICATION

• Which passions or distractions of this world are competing for your heart and mind? What is one step you could take this week to repent from these passions or distractions?

• Pastor Jeff said there are two kinds of people in the church: Useful or useless; honorable or dishonorable. We are called to cleanse ourselves so that we can be useful to God and prepared for every good work. How does this challenge you?

• How can we, as a group, support and encourage each other in the process of repentance?

WANT TO DIVE DEEPER?

Joining a group is a great way to know people and strengthen your relationship with Jesus Christ. Take a look at available groups to get plugged in to and find the group that is right for you. 

GIVING

Everything that happens at LCC is because of your generous gifts. When you give to God through LCC, you're helping reach thousands with the Gospel each week and are making a difference for the Lowcountry and around the world.