Fear isn’t from God. Instead, He gives us a spirit of power, love, and discipline.

KEY VERSES

2 Timothy 1:6-8 (NASB)

6 For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. 8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was granted to us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, 10 but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 for which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher. 12 For this reason I also suffer these things; but I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that He is able to protect what I have entrusted to Him until that day.

UNDERSTANDING

• “Keep Calm and Carry On” is a popular motto. What are some variations of that motto you have seen (i.e. keep calm and call Batman, keep calm and shop on, freak out and call mom)?

• Is “Keep Calm and Carry On” an adequate motto for the Christian life? Explain.

• Is it easy to keep calm? What are some things that make that life philosophy difficult?

• What did Paul mean when he told Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God” (v. 6) that was within him? How do we do this? (See Gal. 5:22-25.)

• What two things did Paul tell Timothy that he should not be ashamed of? What did Paul remind him of regarding that weakness? (See also 1 Cor. 16:10.)

• How might a spirit of fear work against Timothy as a spiritual leader in the first-century?

• What gifts from God did Paul remind Timothy of? How do you think Paul wanted Timothy to use those gifts? How would they offset a spirit of timidity or fear?

• When are you most likely to feel fear or shame in regard to the things you believe? What does verse 7 suggest is the source of such feelings?

• How can God’s power, love, and discipline give us boldness in the face of opposition?

• What truths about our salvation are explained in these two verses? How do these verses remind us why the gospel is such good news?

• Why does it matter that our salvation depends on God’s calling, not on our works?

• How does reflecting on God’s grace in our salvation help us stand boldly in the face of criticism or opposition? How does it give you courage to know that Jesus has abolished death and provided life and immortality to those who trust Him?

• What might tempt a Christian facing hardships on account of the gospel to feel ashamed?

• How did Paul explain the suffering he experienced? How did he explain the confidence he enjoyed despite the suffering?

• What did Paul firmly believe that God would be able to protect? What happens when we don’t see God as the One who is able to protect and keep us?
  

APPLICATION

• Why can we be bold? Who and what are we to be bold about? What is the foundation of our boldness?

• In what situation is God calling you to rely on His Spirit for boldness? How does today’s passage encourage you in that situation?

• How can this group help you choose faith over fear?

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.