An Effective Church

    “Apparently some people have been introducing fantasy stories and fanciful family trees that digress into silliness instead of pulling the people back into the center, deepening faith and obedience.”   1 Timothy 1:4  Msg

  One of the essential parts of Christian growth is to be an active part of a church fellowship.  Because there is such a vast number of  church choices, it is important to see Christ in its teaching.  Paul encourages Timothy to preach the truth of Jesus Christ and His grace alone.

     “Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus.  2. You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.”    II Timothy 2:1,2  NLT

Read: II Timothy 4:1-8

I. v1,2  Communicate The Truth And Consequences

*  a solemn charge is given to Timothy and us today

*  we also must live our lives under the direction of God’s Word

*  God and his son Jesus Christ one day will be the judge of our work

*  notice the tone of both hope and a warning of accountability

          Revelation 7:16,17;  Revelation 21:4  our hope is sure in Him

          Matthew 13:37-42;  Matt. 25:41  of harsh judgment without

*  God expects us to live our life in a way that pleases Him

*  preach the Word clearly, “proclaim” the meaning of the Bible

II. v3,4  Stay Strong In The Doctrine Of God’s Truth

          Acts 4:8-12;  John 6:63,68,69  In Christ is there life

*  “sound doctrine” is teaching what accurately portrays Christ as written in the Bible.  Also, teaching about God that  will promote spiritual health and growth-  not just what people might only want to hear which pleases their lifestyle

III. v5-8  Focus On Proclaiming The Good News

          Acts 2:38-42  the only way to heaven is through the Son of God

*  focus on outreach to the lost and hurting world

*  do not loose that vision through discouragement or results

*  be filled with enthusiasm and Godly zeal- people are hurting & lost

*  continue to fight the good fight of faith and finish the race

*  remain strong in the power and might of Jesus Christ