Small Group Questions

March 22 - 28

Sermon Series: Church Life

Week 5: 1 Timothy 5 

Ice Breaker, If Needed

What is your favorite home remedy when you are sick?

Discussion Questions for Small Groups or Individual Study

1. In 1 Tim. 5, Paul focuses on how God uses His church to help move us toward the provision and purpose we each need. Read this chapter and identify the stage in life you are in and where are you in relation to others. What picture of the church is Paul building for Timothy? 

2. Read 1 Tim. 5:1-2. What would it mean to older men and women to be treated as spiritual fathers and mothers? How would the church benefit? If you are an older person, do you carry yourself as a spiritual parent? Why or why not? If you are younger, identify who might be a source of wisdom and perspective in our church. Pray about opportunities to connect! 

3. Re-read 1 Tim. 5:1-2. In general, what does a healthy, loving brotherly or sisterly bond look like? What do brothers do for each other? What do brothers pray for and expect from each other? Likewise, how should the church emphasize the calling, growth, and raising up of our younger sisters? What does objectification and/or dismissal do to our younger sisters in the church? What if every younger woman felt called higher, was empowered, and was equipped to become a powerful woman of God? How would that impact not only our young women, but our church as a whole? 

4. Read 1 Tim. 5:3-16. Family is one of God’s greatest sources of provision. Why must we be reminded how to treat our family? What does it mean to honor your mother and father? If you have a difficult parent, as Jesus to show you what it means to honor them. 

5. In this chapter, Paul reminds us of those who do not have family. 

• Do you know someone here at this church who is lonely or alone?

• Could you help them experience some taste of family?

• Could you be a ray of hope? 

• Is there a way you can be family to someone in our church right now?

6. Focus on verse 13. Why is “gossip” a symptom of a larger problem? Who doesn’t have time for gossip or being idle? How can we, as a church, help others find purpose so we are known as builders and helpers? 

7. Read 1 Tim. 5:17-21 and Galatians 6:6. What is a good thing you can share with pastors and leaders? Why should we be concerned with encouragement and care for pastors and leaders? 

8. This chapter is ultimately a call for the church to rise up and be the church! Read 1 Tim. 5:25. What does “cannot be hidden” (NIV) mean?