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lesson 20 SOLDIER OF
CHRIST I. TEXTUAL THOUGHTS 1. 2 Timothy 2:3-4- The evangelist is pictured as a soldier dedicated to his calling. 2. 2 Timothy 4:5-7- He is ready for battle and to give his life for the cause. 3. 2 Timothy 4:8- He has confidence in the reward awaiting him. II. MAIN THEME- A good soldier of Jesus Christ will endure hardship and work diligently to please his Lord. 1. Why are we called "soldiers of Christ?" a. Because we are engaged in a battle- Ephesians 6:12. b. Because we must wage war against all that opposes truth, 2 Cor 10:3-6. c. Because we have a commanding officer we want to please, 2 Tim 2:4; John 18:36-37. d. Because our work can be compared to battle, Eph 6:10-18; 1 Tim 6:12. 2. Working as a soldier involves: a. Enduring hardship with other workers, 2 Tim 4:5-11; 1:8, 12. b. Avoiding entanglements that hinder service, 2 Tim 2:4; 4:10; 1 John 2:15. c. Seeking to please your commander, 2 Tim 2:4; Phil 3:7-11. d. Being willing to give your life for the cause, Phil 2:17-18; John 10:10-14. 3. Attitudes of a good soldier: a. He sets his mind on his commanders orders, Col 3:1-4; 1 Tim 4:6-10. b. He is willing to fight for his faith and the faith of others, 1 Tim 6:12; 1 Tim 4:16. c. He trusts the promised reward, 2 Tim 4:8; 2 Cor 5:1-5. d. He doesn't get tired and quit the battle, Heb 12:3; 2 Tim 4:7; 9-17. III. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS 1. Be prepared for the hardships of a good soldier of Jesus Christ. a. Satan will try to destroy your faith, 1 Pet 5:8; 1 Tim 1:18-20. b. Your work will be lonely at times, 2 Tim 1:15; 4:16; Mark 14:32-41. c. People may not want to listen to your message, 2 Tim 4:3-4. d. You may be attacked by many, Mat 10:17-20; 2 Tim 2:24-26. e. Your journeys may be long and difficult, 2 Cor 11:23-33. 2. Remember that your enemy will often be disguised, so be careful about placing confidence in men, 2 Cor 11:13-15; 1 Tim 5:22. 3. Remember that our Commander is Jesus, and be ready to die with Christ so that you may live with Him, 2 Tim 2:8-13; Phil 3:8-11. 4. Remember that we are fellow-workers with God, and He is able to accomplish His purpose, 1 Cor 3:9; 1 Tim 6:11-16; 2 Tim 1:7-12. IV. MEMORY VERSE- 2 TIMOTHY 2:3. |