1. Figure out how to be an honorable vessel for the Lord. (2 Timothy 2:20-21)
2. Pursue godly virtues. (2 Timothy 2:22)
3. Have nothing to do with foolish quarrels. (2 Timothy 2:23-26)
Table Talk Questions
- What is difficult about the illustration that Paul gives of vessels in a house? (vv. 20-21) What aim does Paul want for us as vessels? What three blessings come to the church from honorable vessels? (v. 21) Place the following words used in this text in order of importance: House, vessels, master. What is a common way in which we change the order of importance?
- How can today’s believers set themselves apart as holy? What are some ways that you are being useful to the Master of the house? How is your readiness for future service to the Master?
- According to Paul’s next illustration, everyone is running somewhere. What should we run away from? What should we run toward? (v. 22) What characterizes “youthful passions”? What four virtues are we to pursue? What distinguishes these four? What commonalities do they have? Why does Paul emphasize running with others and not alone? (v. 22)
- Give some examples of foolish, ignorant controversies. (v. 23) Why do some folks seem to hang onto those even more than they hang on to Christ?
- How is the Lord’s servant to respond to a quarrelsome environment? (v. 24) List four ways to respond to a quarrelsome environment. (vv. 24-25a). What is the difference between patient, gentle church leadership and being gun shy to take on false teaching? How is the goal of patient, gentle teaching described? (v. 25b-26) When churches or individuals are immature, not ready for truth, how is that described in reference to the devil’s schemes? (v. 26)