20/09 Deeper Roots: Scripture: Receiving God’s Word
Written by Paul Haines
We continue our series Deeper Roots, exploring some of the ways we can grow deeper in our relationship with God through spiritual practices. Keep in mind these aren’t things we have to do to become better Christians, but ways of making space for God and becoming more attentive to his presence. In this session we look at the foundation of our Christian faith found in God’s word.
2 Timothy 3:14-17 1.
Icebreaker: can you remember the first bible stories you read (or were read to you) as a child. Feel free to share any examples e.g. any particular stories that made an impression? what version of the bible?
Read 2 Timothy 3: 14-17
In v14 what does Paul advise Timothy to do and why does he make reference to those from whom Timothy learned? [read 2 Timothy 1 v 5 for context]
Who has helped shape your faith and how important was that to you? If any of you went to Sunday school or Christian holiday camps as a child or leader feel free to share faith-shaping examples from that.
What is your understanding of the reference to the “[holy Scriptures] able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (NIV)
Read v 16. What do you understand by Paul’s reference to all Scripture being “God-breathed”? Do you think the authors of the books in the Bible effectively took dictation from God, or are there other factors to consider?
Read 2 Peter 1:21. Who guided the Old Testament prophets to speak from God?
How does knowing that Scripture is God-breathed, and that prophets spoke as carried along by the Holy Spirit, affect the way you read the Bible today?
We read in 2 Timothy 3: v 16 that God-breathed Scriptures is useful for various things. Have a look at the list: which of those do you find easy and which do you find hard, share context as you see fit
Feel free to share examples of where you/family/friends or this Life Group already been involved in “every good work” (v 17). Do you sense God may be inviting you or this Life Group to carry out further good work.
Optional reflective Christian song: Speak O Lord – Keith & Kristyn Getty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aH1Wn4fTiBs
Optional: pray into these things