Michael Quattlebaum

1 Samuel 16:14-23

1. After Samuel anointed David to be the next king over Israel, what happened to Saul?

   
   

2. What is unusual about the servant’s statement in verse 15?

   
   

3. What was the purpose in seeking out someone who could play the harp well? Why did they think this would help? Do you suppose there were many skillful harp players in Israel?

   
   

4. Look at the description of David given in verse 18. What kind of reputation did David have?

   
   

5. What was the result of David’s work before the king? Did Saul know that David had been anointed as the next king? Who knew?

   
   

6. What was David’s role as armor bearer?

   
   

7. Why did the evil spirit leave Saul each time that David played his harp?

   
   

8. Was David content in his service to Saul, even though he knew that he would one day replace Saul as king?

Consider for a moment your service for the church, and for God. Perhaps you want to do great things for God. Perhaps you even feel called to a special purpose, or a special work for Him. Many times we can get distracted or even diverted by that goal. What are you doing right now, where you are, in serving Him? Are you content in where God has you right now, doing what He has for you while you wait?

2 Timothy 2:14-26

1. In this section on living right lives before God, why is so much emphasis put on how we talk, who we talk to, and what we talk about?
2. What was the problem with what Hymenaeus and Philetus were saying? Why was it causing problems?
3. In verses 20-21, explain the analogy of the different vessels. How are we to be vessels of honor? How does this analogy compare to the vessels in Romans 9:21-23?
4. What types of behaviors listed in verses 22-26 honor God?
5. What types of behaviors listed in verses 22-26 dishonor God?
6. How can we correct those who are in opposition to the faith with gentleness? Why are we to approach them with kindness and gentleness?
7. How do we become what God wants us to be? To honor Him?

Consider today what specific behaviors you need to change to become a vessel that honors God, and not one of limited or useless value to Him. How can you be the vessel that is useful to God? One of gold and silver, set aside for special use, and not common use?

2 Timothy 1:13-18

1.     Paul instructs Timothy to follow his example.  What standard is set for Timothy in how Paul lives?  What “sound words” is Paul talking about?  (1 Timothy 1:12-15)

2.     What is the treasure that Timothy is to guard, and how does the Holy Spirit help with that?  Why does it need guarding?

3.     Read verse 15.  Now read Acts 19:1-10.  Were the people in Ephesus and to a larger degree in Asia familiar with the teachings and reputation of Paul?  If so, why did so many turn away from him?

4.     What was different about Onesiphorus?  Why was he not ashamed of Paul?  How did he serve Paul differently? 

5.     What service had Onesiphorous performed that pleased Paul?  What was his motivation in helping Paul?

6.     What could the believers in Asia learned from Romans 12:9-13?  What about us?

We should each be motivated to serve one another.  That motivation should come out of the love of God, and His Spirit working in us.  This love and service properly displayed will show others that we are different, and that God lives in us (John 13:34-35).