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(2 Timothy 4:6-8)

Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8.

What do the following similes in verse 6 mean (1) “…being poured out like a drink offering…”? (2) “The time has come for my departure…”? (3) “I have fought the good fight”? (4) “I have kept the faith”?

What is the “crown of righteousness”?

In this passage, the “righteous Judge” will award the apostle. What, if anything, does that have to do with judgment?

What does it mean for someone to “long for” (literally, “love”) his appearing?

Shayne said, “A lack of love for his appearing could signify a lack of love for him.” Are there other reasons a genuine Christian might not love his appearing? If so, name some.

What is Paul referring to by “his appearing”? Why does he refer to it as “appearing” rather than “coming” or “return”—does “appearing” have particular significance?

Read other verses that use the word “appearing” in similar contexts: Colossians 3:1-4; 2 Thess. 2:8 (translated “splendor” in NIV); 1 Tim. 6:14; 2 Tim. 4:1; Titus 2:13. What do you learn about his “appearing” from these verses?

On a scale of 1 to 10, what is your interest level in the “last things”? What do you think the ideal level would be for you?

Circle the word that best reflects you. You: love / are interested in / fear his appearing? Why choose that answer?

What is most encouraging to you about the Bible’s teaching regarding the appearance of Christ? What is most unsettling?

Do you think of God’s judgment as a positive or a negative thing? Why do you think that is?

In Colossians 3:1-4, we “will appear” when he (Jesus) “appears.” What do you think this means? Do you find it encouraging or challenging – or both?

What do people not know but need to know about Christ’s appearance?

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