For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this Anchor Group study with you.

⌘ Space to Belong | 5-10 minutes

Connect with one another with an ice-breaker.

Do you remember the first time you gave a public speech? What did you talk about? How did it go?

⌘ Space to Believe | 10-15 minutes

Read and reflect on the scripture.

2 Timothy 4:1–2 (NIV) In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.

What stands out to you? Is there anything new for you to believe or obey?

⌘ Space to Become | 10-15 minutes

A. Familiarize yourself with the sermon.

In this message by Pastor Paul Durbin, he discusses the essence and purpose of preaching in the context of a Christian community. He starts by affirming that preaching God’s Word is fundamental to a healthy church, citing Apostle Paul's guidance to Timothy on the necessity of preaching.

He describes three types of preaching—Textual, which explores questions from specific Bible passages; Topical, which answers questions by looking across the entire Bible; and Testimony, where individuals share their personal experiences of faith.

By combining these methods, believers can benefit from diverse styles of teaching and deepen their understanding and application of biblical truths.

B. Discuss one or more of the following questions.

1. How does the emphasis on preaching impact other aspects of Christian life?
   1. In Pastor Paul Durbin's message, he discusses how some in the church have overemphasized preaching, leading to the neglect of other essential Christian practices.
   2. How does prioritizing preaching affect other important elements of Christianity, such as serving, fellowship, and personal devotion?
2. Why is preaching considered an essential element of a healthy church?
   1. Paul references Apostle Paul's instructions to Timothy, highlighting the necessity of preaching the word of God.
   2. In what ways does preaching contribute to the spiritual health and growth of a church community?
3. How can believers balance preaching with other forms of spiritual engagement?
   1. Durbin suggests that a balanced approach, combining preaching, serving, fellowship, and small group discussions, is more effective.
   2. What strategies can be implemented to ensure that preaching, service, fellowship, and personal devotion are all given importance in the church?
4. What are the benefits and limitations of textual preaching?
   1. The message explains how textual preaching involves addressing the questions raised by specific Bible passages and provides several examples and benefits.
   2. What advantages does textual preaching offer, and what are its potential shortcomings?
5. Why is it important for a church to embrace different styles of preaching?
   1. Durbin talks about the value of textual, topical, and testimony preaching and how each style can address different needs.
   2. Why should a church incorporate various preaching styles, and what are the benefits of doing so?

⌘ Space to Belay | 5-10 minutes