2 Timothy 2:8-15
Responsive Reading from 2 Timothy 2:8-15
Leader: Remember Jesus Christ, the one raised from the dead? He is my good news! I am willing to suffer for Him, even to the point of being chained down like a common criminal.
People: But the Word of God is not chained.
Leader: Therefore, I endure everything for the sake of those of us who have been chosen, in order that we may obtain the salvation that is ours in Jesus Christ, and the eternal glory which is also ours in Him. Here are some true sayings:
People: If we have died with Him, we will also live with Him.
Leader: If we endure, we will also reign with Him.
People: If we deny Him, He will also deny us.
Leader: But… if we are faithless, He remains faithful. We are a part of Him, and He cannot deny Himself.
People: We are reminded and warned to avoid wrangling over words, which does no good but only damages those who are listening… damages them to the point of ruin!
Leader: Make your very best effort to gain the approval of God, presenting yourselves as hard workers who have no reason to be ashamed because you have explained the truth of God in the right way, with the right motive, and with the right message.
People: We remember Jesus Christ, the one raised from the dead. He is our good news! We are willing to suffer for Him, even to the point of being chained down like a common criminal.
Leader: But the Word of God is not chained!
People: Thanks be to God!
Hymn Suggestions:
“Break Out, O Church of God” (BH91) ST. THOMAS
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness” FAITHFULNESS
“Come, All Christians, Be Committed”
“In Christ, Our Liberty” (BH91)
Symbols: Chain, Broken Chain; Hand Cuffs
(If you church has the AWANAS program for children, be aware they get their name from v. 15: A Workman And Not Ashamed. You may be able to work that ministry into your service.)
Children’s Sermon Idea: Put together a construction paper “chain” of Bible verses… especially verses related to the Word of God (e.g. Psalm 119:11, Colossians 3:16, James 1:22) As you discuss the passage, telling the children that God’s Word is not chained down, tear the pieces of the chain apart and give a “link” to each child. Have a couple of the older ones read their verses.
Make the point of how God’s Word is valuable and free… not chained down. Close with a prayer of thankfulness to God for His Word.