Small Group Resources

March 15 - 21

Church Life

Week 4: 1 Timothy 4

Discussion Questions

1. What are the characteristics of someone or something that drifts? While it seems obvious believers should be on guard against deliberate rebellion, why are many less concerned about drifting in our faith? What does a drifting Christian look like? Examine if you have a tendency to drift. 

2. Read 1 Timothy 4:1-3. What voices are shaping you? Share ideas that sound spiritual, but distort God’s goodness. How do you guard against drift caused by unsound doctrine? Honestly assess which shapes you and your family right now: Culture or Scripture?

 
3. Re-read 1 Timothy 4:2. Depending on your translation, what do you think this verse means? The NIV says their consciences “have been seared as with a hot iron.” The NLT says their “consciences are dead.” What is the danger of a drifting conscience? Assess if your sensitivity is fading. When the Holy Spirit corrects you, what is your response? When is your response? 

4. Drifting allows our views to become distorted. Read 1 Timothy 4:3-5. In verse 3, Paul describes a person who is redefining godliness based on a standard that doesn’t exist. How does a person become so distorted? Have you ever mistaken intensity for maturity? How? Distorted holiness adds burdens God doesn’t require. How have you piled burdens onto others or yourself? Why does this tendency signal a heart that has drifted? 

5. Read 1 Timothy 4:7-8. What do “godless myths” and “old wives tales” seek to provide to those who drift? Why are shortcuts, formulas, and control so tempting? The NIV says “train to be godly” (v7). Why “train”? How are you strengthening your inner life? Which spiritual disciplines (reading Scripture, prayer, service) are shaping you right now? 

6. Do a checkup on your public and private credibility. Read 1 Timothy 4:12. Who is excused from setting an example? If a young person is expected to train toward godly conduct, what should an established, mature person look like? Ask: Has my speech grown careless? Has my love grown thin? Has my integrity grown casual? 

7. Fight drift and distortion through diligence! Read 1 Timothy 4:13-16. No one is exempt from drift, but some know how to anchor! What do they pursue? What environments do they immerse themselves in? When confronted with trials, how do they react? What do they watch closely? What are signs of collapse in your own life?