04/10/26 Keith Cooper - 1 Timothy 3:8-16

1) How do we recognise where God is calling us to serve?

Sermon quote: "We are called to serve not ourselves, but to serve others."

Acts 6:3 says: "Select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom."

Discussion notes: Desire matters, but Keith said calling is also confirmed through Scripture, the gospel and the local church. Where are you already serving, and how could others help you recognise or test God's call?

2) Why does character matter more than gifting?

Sermon quote: "Your character is more important than any gift or any skill that you may have."

1 Timothy 3:8 says: "Deacons must be well respected and have integrity."

Discussion notes: Paul looks for trustworthiness, self-control and honesty before skill. Which part of your character most needs the Holy Spirit's work, and what might growth look like in everyday life?

3) What might private integrity look like for you this week?

Sermon quote: "Let Jesus affect every area of your life."

1 Timothy 3:9 says: "They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience."

Discussion notes: Keith applied this to our words, relationships, money, anger and hidden choices. He urged us to ask for help early rather than hide our weaknesses. What safeguard, honest conversation or step of obedience could help you live consistently in public and private?

4) How can our church uphold God's truth?

Sermon quote: "The church belongs to God, it's not God who belongs to the church."

1 Timothy 3:15 says: "This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth."

Discussion notes: God sets the agenda for His household. Where are Christians pressed to compromise in order to fit in or get ahead? What does this mean for both our teaching and our behaviour? How can we hold to truth with courage, humility and love?

5) What does 1 Timothy 3:16 teach us about Jesus?

Sermon quote: "The gospel is primarily all about Jesus."

1 Timothy 3:16 says: "Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit."

Discussion notes: Jesus came, rose, was proclaimed, believed in and taken into glory. Before moving to application, name what this passage reveals about Him. Which part gives you hope, deepens your confidence or stirs fresh worship today?

6) Where do you need to apply the gospel again?

Sermon quote: "You never leave the gospel behind."

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 says: "Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day."

Discussion notes: The gospel is for Christians at every stage. How do Jesus' grace and power speak to a struggle, failure or responsibility you face this week? What step of joyful obedience follows?

Prayer Points

Servant Hearts - Jesus, show each of us where and how to serve, and help us seek the good of others.

Godly Character - Holy Spirit, grow integrity, self-control, purity and compassion in every part of our lives.

Church Leaders - Protect our elders, deacons and everyone who serves. Fill them with wisdom, courage and love.

Truth Upheld - Keep Freedom Church Chester rooted in Your Word, faithful in conviction and gracious in tone.

Gospel Joy - Keep the wonder of Jesus at the centre and lead us into joyful obedience by Your grace.