Sermon Central
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Equipped #2: Speak Truth Series
Contributed by John Dobbs on Aug 22, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Today we are going to focus on two gifts - what some call ‘the speaking gifts’. Although speaking in front of others is a major fear factor, it is necessary for sharing the good news.
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Discussion Questions
1. Paul began this section with a warning about pride. Why are those who have the ability to perceive truth and boldly proclaim the word of God particularly vulnerable to the temptation of pride?
2. Read Romans 12:6–8. What does Paul mean when he says “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us”?
3. How would you describe the difference between **prophecy** and **teaching** as gifts? Why do you think God gave these gifts to the church? What purpose do they serve?
4. In Acts 18, what can we learn from Priscilla and Aquila’s approach in teaching Apollos? How does their example encourage us today?
5. Why does Paul stress in 1 Corinthians 4:6, “Do not go beyond what is written”? How might that warning apply to anyone who teaches or preaches today?
6. Even if we don’t have the specific gift of prophecy or teaching, in what ways are all Christians called to **speak truth**?
7. What are some fears people may have when it comes to speaking truth (in class, in conversation, with family)?
8. Read Ephesians 6:19–20. What do Paul’s words teach us about courage in speaking the gospel?
9. How can we **develop** the gifts of teaching or proclaiming truth? What role do study, prayer, and encouragement from others play?
10. Who in your life has blessed you by exercising their gift of teaching or proclaiming truth? How could you encourage or thank them this week?
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Resources
Barclay, William B. Daily Study Bible Series: Romans. Westminster Press, Revised Edition, 1977.
Damiani, Pat. Using My Spiritual Gifts.
https://sermoncentral.com/sermons/using-my-spiritual-gifts-pat-damiani-sermon-on-spiritual-gifts-262766
Deffenbaugh, Bob. Thinking Straight about Spiritual Gifts
https://bible.org/seriespage/30-thinking-straight-about-spiritual-gifts-romans-123-8
Fox, Michael. Complete in Christ. Xulon Press, 2007.
Lucado, Max. The Blacksmith’s Shop. https://godandidotblog.wordpress.com/2020/09/28/the-blacksmiths-shop-upwords-september-28/
Osborne, Grant R. IVP New Testament Commentary Series: Romans. InterVarsity Press, 2004.
New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology. Copyright © 2000 by The Zondervan Corporation.
Reaves, Bradford. Living Sacrifices: Transforming Minds, Transforming Lives.
https://sermoncentral.com/sermons/living-sacrifices-transforming-minds-transforming-lives-dr-bradford-reaves-sermon-on-transformation-286029
Stedman, Ray. Who Am I, Lord? https://www.raystedman.org/new-testament/romans/who-am-i-lord
Yarbrough, Robert W. ESV Commentary Series: Romans - Galatians. Crossway, 2020.
