Winning the Battle of Faith (1 Timothy 1:18-20)

Winning the Battle of Faith

June 25, 2023

1 Timothy 1:18-20

Study Questions

According to 1 Timothy 1:18-19, what specific command was entrusted to Timothy (cf. 1:3-4)? 

Paul uses military terminology familiar to Timothy when he says, “fight the good fight”. What good things should believers fight for? 

In verse 19, how could a person reject “faith and a good conscience” (cf. 1:3-7; 2 Timothy 2:14-18; 4:14)? Furthermore, what does Paul’s use of the “ship- wreck” analogy reveal about the condition of such a person’s faith? 

What does it mean that these two men named in this passage were handed over to Satan (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:1-5)? What is the purpose of this severe treatment (cf. 2 Corinthians 2:5-8; 2 Timothy 2:24-25; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; James 5:19-20)? Is this something that Paul fears will happen to believers or unbelievers? 

What do you sense God is calling you to fight for right now in your life and relationships? How can you display the character of Christ in this fight (See also Hebrews 12:1-3)?

Who are you concerned about that may shipwreck their faith? How can you pray for and pursue them? What prevents you from shipwrecking your faith? Ask the Holy Spirit for a heart to respond to any conviction He may bring today.