How to Avoid a Shipwreck
Sermon Notes
Welcome, CityBridge Family! This morning, we’re diving into 1 Timothy 1:18-20, where Paul challenges Timothy to stand firm in his calling—to guard the gospel with unwavering faith and a clear conscience. Paul warns that failing to do so can lead to a shipwrecked faith, pointing to examples of Hymenaeus and Alexander, who strayed from the truth.
This passage reminds us that faith isn’t passive—it’s a battle. We are called to fight the good fight, holding tightly to the truth of the gospel. Just as Paul entrusted Timothy with this mission, we too have been entrusted with the gospel to live it out and pass it on.
To help you reflect and apply this truth, we've provided a weekly reading plan with discussion questions. You can find it on the CityBridge App to follow along!
Main Takeaway
Guarding the gospel is our calling and responsibility—hold fast to faith and a clear conscience so that you don’t drift into compromise and shipwreck your faith.
Key Points
Paul’s Charge & Encouragement to Timothy (1 Timothy 1:18–19A)
The Consequences of Taking in False Teaching (1 Timothy 1:19B–20)
Discussion Questions
Paul tells Timothy to “wage the good warfare” by holding onto faith and a good conscience. What does this look like in your daily life?
Paul warns that rejecting a good conscience can lead to a shipwrecked faith. What are some signs that someone may be drifting spiritually, and how can we help one another stay anchored in truth?
Timothy was entrusted with the gospel and called to pass it on. Who has invested in your faith, and who are you intentionally investing in?
Paul exercised church discipline by removing Hymenaeus and Alexander from the church. Why is protecting sound doctrine so important, and how can we lovingly correct false teaching when we encounter it?
What are some practical ways you can strengthen your faith and guard against spiritual drift this week?
