David Murphy
•
•
September 3, 2023
What are the signs and marks of spiritually healthy people, churches, ministries? And how can we get healthier one step at a time?
2 Timothy 2:1-7 NIV
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. 5 Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.
5 signs of a spiritually healthy person:
1. Be Strong in the Grace of Christ (v.1)
2. Be Faithful in passing on truth about Christ (v.2)
3. Be Courageous representing Christ (v.3-4)
4. Be Disciplined following Christ’s Words for life (v.5)
5. Be Hardworking for Christ (v.6)
1. Be Strong in Grace of Christ (v1)
Checkup #1- Do you live by grace?
Challenge: Ephesians 2:8-10
2. Be faithful in passing on truth about Christ (v.2)
Checkup #2- Do you share your faith in Jesus with people?
Challenge: John 3:16
3. Be Courageous representing Christ Jesus (v.3-4)
1. A Soldier knows they will have to go through tough times
2. A Soldier has a genuine desire to serve the Commanding Officer
Checkup #3- A sign of spiritual health is someone who is not afraid to go through tough times and obey what God’s Word says no matter what.
4. Be Disciplined following God’s Words for life (v.5)
Checkup #4- Are you disciplined in following Jesus even when it is not convenient?
5. Be Hardworking for Christ (v.6)
Checkup #5- Are you hardworking in what you do?
1. Be Strong (v1) - someone who walks and lives by grace
2. Be faithful (v.2) - sharing good news of Jesus to others
3. Be Courageous (v.3-4) - serving God as commander and Chief
4. Be Disciplined (v.5) - competing for the prize of heaven
5. Be Hardworking (v.6) - working for the reward