AT THE END OF THE APOSTLE PAULS’ LIFE, HE SAID, “I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT…” (2 TIMOTHY 4:7-8)
WE’RE LOOKING AT FIGHTING THE RIGHT FIGHT IN THE CULTURE WE LIVE IN.
What do you to think about…
MAYBE THE QUESTION ISN’T “WHAT ARE WE TO THINK?” BUT RATHER “HOW ARE WE TO THINK?”
Truth has evolved even in my own lifetime.
sub·jec·tive (səbˈjektiv): based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions (“I think, therefor I am right”)1
ob·jec·tive (əbˈjektiv): not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts
“I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT, I HAVE FINISHED THE RACE, AND I HAVE REMAINED FAITHFUL.”
– 2 Timothy 4:7
FIGHTING THE RIGHT FIGHT
Ephesians 6:10-18 10A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”
NOTICE
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
Life Group Ice Breaker: Play “Two Truths & A Lie” together. How do you know what to believe about each other?
QUESTIONS TO DISCUSS IN LIFE GROUPS AND WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Passages to consider: 2 Timothy 3:12-16; Proverbs 18:17; Psalm 1; Psalm 119:105
1. Share what challenged or inspired you from the sermon.
2. Read 2 Timothy 3:12-17 and Proverbs 18:17. What is important to know and practice from these passages?
3. What sources of information play a consistent part in shaping how you view people, situations, and events around you? A) How do you measure what you hear and believe with what God says is real and true?
4. What helps you be aware of agendas that news and media sources, and information agencies, might have? (This is not a question about what the agendas are but how you discern them.)
5. How do you seek out God’s perspective and truth? You might share with each other habits and resources.
6. If you have kids, how are you helping them be shaped by God’s perspective of truth and reality? A) What help and resources do you need? (Those without kids in the home, consider your role with grandkids, nieces/nephews, friends with kids.)