The Model of the Servant
2 Timothy 2:24-26

Lesson 12

background notes

doctrinal / teaching points

1. Like a servant, the faithful Christian serves in spite of trying circumstances.
2. Like a servant, the faithful Christian serves in spite of testy opposition.

practical applications

1. Be like a father, and not like a first sergeant.
2. Let’s examine ourselves for error.

questions

1. Name the seven models given in Chapter 2, and list the key thought or idea of each one.
2. In the model of the servant, how is the faithful Christian to serve?
3. What is the difference in the method of instruction between a father and a sergeant?

answers

1. • The teacher (verse 2) – communication
   • The soldier (verses3-4) – sacrifice
   • The athlete (verse5) – discipline
   • The farmer (verse 6) – labor
   • The workman (verse 15) – skill
   • The vessel (verses 20-21) – availability
   • The servant (verses 24-26) – serving in love
2. In spite of trying circumstances, he is to serve in love. In spite of testy opposition, he is to serve in love.
3. The father instructs with love, while the sergeant barks out orders.

discuss / consider

1. Review the seven models and the key idea of each model. Which models are evident in your life? How can you become more like each of these models?
2. Recall a time when you served in trying circumstances. Did you follow the “rules” of 2 Timothy 2:24? Have you been involved in testy opposition? If so, did you follow the “rules” of 2 Timothy 2:25-26?

challenge

Have you examined yourself for error? Do you have some blind spots? If so, receive the teaching of a faithful fellow believer.

memorize

• “…a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition.” 2 Timothy 2:24-25