Grow Guide | July 19, 2026

Written By Kevin Bergeson

Text Study for Sunday, July 19, 2026

Series Theme: Learn with devotion

Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14–4:5

printable version

CONNECTING QUESTIONS

Tell about a teacher that had a positive impact on your life. How?

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION

Gracious God, you gift us with everything we need for life: daily bread, community, joy and growth. Help us grow in faith so we trust you more and see our neighbor more clearly. Thank you for your forgiving love. Thank you for extending that same love to my neighbor, whomever they may be. We trust your promises, and pray through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen


CONTEXT

Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long. – Psalm 25:4-5

Learn with devotion, the Spirit inspires us all to grow. We encourage all generations to teach and learn from each other, from birth through adulthood, with space for everyone to learn, grow, be curious, and discern. We will actively support parents and caregivers in the faith development of youth.


From Dr Arland Hultgren at EntertheBible.org:

The “Scripture” being referred to in 2 Timothy 3:16 would be the books of the Old Testament. The passage probably does not refer to the Old Testament as a completed collection (a “canon”), since the canonization of the Old Testament was not yet firm for Christians by the end of the first century CE, although it might well have been for Jews. Nevertheless, the passage shows that an authoritative scriptural tradition was well underway by the time that 2 Timothy was written. The false teachers of the era may not have regarded the Old Testament books as authoritative. What the author means by “inspiration” is contested. The emphasis of the passage is not so much on inspiration itself, but upon the use of Scripture, that is, the way it functions to offer guidance and instruction.

LOOK AT THE BOOK

  • How is it with your spirit this week?

  • What was one take-away from listening to the Carry On Cast podcast that connects with this Grow Guide?

  • Our theme is connected to our church’s vision statement “Learning with Devotion.” What does that mean to you?

  • What are you still hungry to learn more about in life? Why?

  • Jump to 2 Timothy 3:14. What do you think Timothy is being encouraged to continue doing?

  • This is the second letter of mentorship. Tell about mentor in your life, especially one older than you. What did you learn?
     What does Paul teach about the origin and purpose of Scripture in 3:16-17?
     What charge does Paul give Timothy in 4:1-2?
     Why does Paul say preaching the truth will become increasingly difficult (4:3-4)?
     What commands does Paul give Timothy in 4:5?

  • Why is it important that Scripture is described as "God-breathed" rather than merely human wisdom?
     How does Scripture train and shape us differently than culture, social media, or public opinion?
     What does it look like to be "ready in season and out of season" today?

  • In what ways can Easter Lutheran Church live into a deeper engagement with Scripture?

  • How is Jesus good news for us this week?

  • What would you like to talk about that we have not yet?


TAKING IT HOME

Write a mentor a thank you note—no matter their age.


Sending Prayer

God of all wisdom, you have given us minds to know you, hearts to love you, and voices to praise you. Fill us with your Spirit, that we would join with your whole church in experiencing you through the good news of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Kevin Bergeson
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Grow Guide | July 5, 2026