Faith to be Convinced

Campus Women's Morning Devotional

October 20, 2007

Introduction:

a) Brief Overview: Author Paul wrote this Epistle to Timothy with final direction and encouragement to lead the church in Ephesus.

b) Read 2Timothy 1:8-12- 8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, 9who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.

c) Describe common characteristics of someone who is "convinced."

a. Examples:

i. Driven

ii. Unshakeable/obstinate

iii. Confident

iv. One who wholeheartedly believes in someone or something

b. Webster's New World Dictionary definition: persuaded by argument or evidence; feeling sure.

c. Question: What is it about God that you are not persuaded? (discussion)

d. Ask the group to give solutions to those who do not feel convinced.

I. Jesus destroyed death. ( v.10)

a. Romans 6:8-10- 8Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. 10The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.

b. Read "The Case for Christ" (pp.191-192, 201-202).

II. Jesus defined life. (v.10)

a. Philippians 1:21-For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

b. Read list of martyrs.

c. How does hearing this lesson give you perspective on being convinced of who Jesus is?

d. What do you need to do in order to share your faith shamelessly?

III. You define Jesus.

a. Are you convinced that Jesus destroyed death?

b. What are some things that you feel like you would need to pray through to help you be convinced to share your faith because Jesus is really who He is?

c. Confess your struggle of faith with a sister and repent and believe!

d. Romans 14:23- "… everything that does not come from faith is sin."

e. What vision do you have for your campus ministry?

f. Give brief summary of Mark 6 and read Matthew 6:5-6-

5He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6And he was amazed at their lack of faith.

Conclusion: Share your faith with another woman in the campus ministry this week and believe!