2 Timothy 4:1-8 – 1 I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: 2 Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. 3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me – the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. (New Living Translation)

Here Are Some Things Church Do

• Try to __________________ past successes

• Regardless of success or failure, they’re _______ and __________

• They try to build the Kingdom in a way this is ________________________

Here’s What God Is Telling Us to Do

▸ __________________ the word of God

▸ __________________ correct, rebuke, and encourage people

▸ Keep a ____________ __________ and don’t be afraid of __________________ for the Lord

Romans 12:2 – Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. . . . (New Living Translation)