New Heart Community Church

Series: Doing Church God’s Way

I Timothy 3:1-16 “The Marks of Maturity”

March 8-9, 2008

Food for Thought

For the week of March 10, 2008

(Questions and Scriptures for further study)

 

1. Spiritual growth and maturity is often accelerated under difficult circumstances. In Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians (see 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10), he describes what spiritual growth looks like in the midst of “severe suffering.” After reading the passage, jot down how Paul describes the faith of the Thessalonians, himself and his friends.

What is most attractive to you about their faith? How do you think they were able to mature in such a trying situation?

2. One example of a leader whose family was out of control is Eli. Although his sons were adults when the events in 1 Samuel 2 occurred, (which means his sons were responsible for their own actions according to Ezekiel 18), their actions still had an incredibly negative impact on God’s reputation and Eli’s leadership. Read the story in 1 Samuel 2:12-34 and then answer the following questions.

What was God’s complaint about how Eli related to his sons?

There are a couple of  reasons why it’s important for leaders to have their families under control: it’s a top priority and its impact upon God’s reputation. Where do you see these missing in Eli’s relationship with his sons?

What were the impact and consequences of Eli’s sons being out of control?

If you are a parent, what insights into parenting do you learn from this example?

3. In addition to the guidelines Paul gave to Timothy on picking leaders, he also gave similar instructions to Titus. Read 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. While several qualifications are found on both lists, each list has some unique qualifications. Make a list of the qualifications in each passage and compare what you find and what’s unique to each one.

As you look at those two lists, take some time to do an inventory of your own spiritual life. How are you doing in your quest for spiritual maturity (remember God is looking for progress, not perfection).  Is there anything that is currently hindering your spiritual growth or any steps you could take which would accelerate your growth?