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SERIES: |
Now Streaming |
MESSAGE: |
The Last Dance: Instructions on How to Die Well |
SPEAKER: |
Skip Heitzig |
SCRIPTURE: |
2 Timothy 4:6-12 |
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MESSAGE SUMMARY
Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote, “A grave, wherever found, preaches a short and pithy sermon to the soul.” What did he mean? Simply that cemeteries remind us of the unavoidable certainty of death. A grave should prompt us to think about our future on this earth; it’s the only real estate we’ll hold onto for a long while! The words in our text this week are among Paul’s final words. This is his last statement. Here is a man who not only lived well, but also demonstrated what it means to die well. Let’s consider how to face the end of life on this earth with no regrets.
STUDY GUIDE
Connect Group Guide: June 25, 2021
Speaker: Skip Heitzig
Teaching: “The Last Dance: Instructions on How to Die Well”
Text: 2 Timothy 4:6-12
Main Point
Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote, “A grave, wherever found, preaches a short and pithy sermon to the soul.” What did he mean? Simply that cemeteries remind us of the unavoidable certainty of death. A grave should prompt us to think about our future on this earth; it’s the only real estate we’ll hold onto for a long while! The words in our text this week are among Paul’s final words. This is his last statement. Here is a man who not only lived well, but also demonstrated what it means to die well. Let’s consider how to face the end of life on this earth with no regrets.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the
crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just
for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” —2 Timothy 4:7-8
Talk about It
- Why does the Bible call death the “last enemy?” Read 1 Corinthians 15:26.
- Why do you think people are so afraid to talk about death? What feelings arise in you when discussing death?
- How often is heaven on your mind? How prepared are you for that ultimate journey?
- How could having an eternal perspective help with practical everyday activities, trials, responsibilities, etc.?
“Christian, when you die, you won’t be dead long enough to know you died.” —Pastor Skip
Make It Practical- Stroll a cemetery. Consider taking your group and visiting a cemetery. Maybe go through the questions from this guide while you walk.
- Build your friendships. Consider in the next few weeks setting up a time to share a meal, coffee, or a hike with one of your friends or group members. If you don’t make time for friends, you won’t have any. Read Proverbs 18:1, 24 and Proverbs 13:20.
- Serve the Lord. Set your mind on the end when you will stand before Jesus and His reward. Go through Life Track and discover or confirm your gifting. Use your gifts to fight the good fight. Step one happens on Sunday, August 1 at 11 am or Wednesday, August 4 at 6:30 pm.
Pray
Thank you, Father, for giving us a fight worth fighting and a race worth finishing. Although we are often nearsighted and forgetful, help us face the inevitable reality of our death. In our weakness, help us remain faithful until that end. You have authority and the final word over death. It will soon abolished and ended. We look forward with great anticipation to
You, Jesus, our great prize and reward. In Your name, amen.
Facilitator Tips- As we discuss death and heaven, consider taking communion together remembering Jesus death and his return. Read 1 Corinthians 11:25-26.
- Remind your group that Connect Group Weekend is coming up on August 7-8. Whether your group is open or full, encourage your group to share their experience with one person they sit next to that weekend. Maybe someone might find belonging.
Cross references: Exodus 29:38-46; Numbers 15; Philippians 1:20; 2:17; Ecclesiastes 7:2, 4; Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 14:13; 2 Corinthians 5:1; 11:23-28; Mark 10:50-52; Acts 20:24; Proverbs 18:1, 24; John 9:4; 11:25; Lamentations 3:22-23
OUTLINE
- Face the Inevitable (v. 6)
- Decide to Be Faithful (v. 7)
- Aim at the Eventual (v. 8)
- Become More Relational (vv. 9-12)
Keywords: Christian living, death, dying, eternity, faithful, faithfulness, future, heaven, relationships