Timothy - Leaders (1 Timothy Chapters 2 & 3)

How can we know what a godly leader is?

Icebreaker:
Who is one of the best coaches or teachers you have ever known?
What made them so good?

Where is It Written:
Read 1 Timothy Chapter 2

What kinds of prayers does Paul suggest God’s people should pray for all people, including those in authority? Why?
What is the attitude he encourages men to have? (v. 8)
What is the attitude he encourages women to have? (vs. 9-10)

1 Timothy 2:11 has at times been understood as saying that women should never be in a position of leadership in the church. What do you make of this passage in light of what Paul has written about Christian women in other places? (Galatians 3:28, Romans 16:1-14, 1 Corinthians 11:5; 14:34-35)
What are the potential advantages of a local church where both men and women are encouraged to develop whatever gifts God gives them?

Read 1 Timothy Chapter 3
What do you notice about the attributes required of church leaders?
How are these requirements connected to the gospel? (Is having high standards for church leaders a form a legalism? Why or why not?)

How Goes Your Walk:
What principles from these chapters are you most challenged by this week?
How are you praying for leaders?
How are you praying about your own leadership?