JUNE 15, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Unashamed: Take Advantage of the Opportunity
2 Timothy 1:1-12
As you launch this week's study, read Romans 1:16-17. Paul said that he wasn't ashamed of the gospel. What did that statement mean for Paul, and what does that theological conviction mean for you?
Take a moment to reflect on your life's most vital areas. How are your family relationships truly flourishing? Is your retirement account charting a course toward security? Are you genuinely nurturing your health—physically, relationally, financially, mentally, and spiritually? And, perhaps most profoundly, are you actively mentoring another person in the Christian faith?
To genuinely answer these questions, investment is not just suggested; it's required. You pour your time and energy into your family, diligently save for your future, and commit to your well-being. You also invest in the lives of other people. But amidst all this giving, a crucial question emerges: Who is investing in you?
Consider the Apostle Paul, a man who deeply understood the power of investment. He wasn't just dedicated; he was unashamed—unashamed of his Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. Are you living that same unashamed witness for the Lord? Do those around you—your family, colleagues, classmates, and friends—see your love for and commitment to Jesus? Are you, like Paul, intentionally investing time in the lives of others, unashamed to align yourself with God's people and fulfill His purposes? Paul famously poured his life into young Timothy, building a bond where neither was ashamed of the other. Do you have spiritual relationships built on that same powerful conviction of being unashamed?
As a spiritual father, what did Paul want Timothy to know and do? If you have children, what do you want them to know and do? Are you living an unashamed life for Jesus before them?
1. Maintain God's Outlook on Life (2 Timothy 1:1-5). Paul labored to build up Timothy. While many people are quick to expose weaknesses, mistakes, faults, and sins, Paul's outlook on life, in contrast, was consistently half-full-always seeing the potential for growth and redemption. How do you maintain God's outlook on life, as it relates to His will, spiritual discipleship, and family relationships?
2. Discover God's Expectations in Life (2 Timothy 1:6-10). Paul, through his mentorship and teachings, shared God's expectations with Timothy. Employers, coaches, and parents must share expectations with others to achieve success and unity. What does the Bible teach about God's gifts, God's provisions, and God's grace? Can you name several practical and spiritual expectations with your group?
3. Keep God's Perspective on Life (2 Timothy 1:11-12). Paul called Timothy to live God's way. Paul said he was appointed to be a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher. What do those titles mean? How would you describe the Christian life? Take a moment and list three relevant statements about living God's way. Timothy was to obey God's leadership and remain faithful to Him.
As you celebrate Father's Day, commit to live unashamed of the gospel and invest spiritually in the lives of other people. God wants to use you.
Here are three final questions for your group to discuss:
1. How does being invested in by others (or the lack thereof) affect your ability to live out an "unashamed witness" for Jesus
2. In what specific, practical ways can you apply this "half-full" perspective to your daily interactions, especially within your family, workplace, or church?
3. What is one specific expectation you feel God has for you right now, and how will understanding that expectation guide your beliefs and behaviors this week?
May the Lord bless you and your family this Father's Day weekend! We'll see you soon in Bible study and worship.
View all of the "Unashamedd" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/unashamed.