Fan into Flame the Gift of God

Ps David Jones

Sunday Morning’s message 24th of August 2025

citywestchurch YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZP5tQbVLyr8

This passage has been quoted and preached for centuries, serving as an anchor for many believers. It’s a powerful reminder that God has already placed gifts within us—and He calls us to keep them alive and active.

2 Timothy 1:6–7 (NIV)“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

A Reminder to You and Me

“For this reason I remind you…” (v. 6)

Paul was more than a teacher to Timothy—he was a spiritual father, mentor, and encourager. In fact, Paul encourages Timothy about 25 times in his letters. Why? Because even passionate leaders need reminders to stay strong.

Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy around AD 65 during his final imprisonment in Rome, facing the reality of his approaching death. Timothy was serving in Ephesus, a prominent and influential city known for its commerce, idolatry, and spiritual challenges. By the time the Book of Revelation was written—likely around AD 95 or 96—the church in Ephesus had already begun to drift spiritually. Jesus rebukes them in Revelation 2, saying, “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” The early passion and devotion had faded as the pressures of the surrounding culture closed in on the church. This background gives Paul’s letter a powerful sense of urgency. It stands not only as a personal encouragement to Timothy but also as a warning to the body of Christ: don’t let the fire die—guard the faith and keep the flame burning.

Paul’s letter carries an urgency: don’t let the fire go out.

The Christian life is not automatic. We all need reminders because our zeal can fade under pressure, fear, or busyness. Paul’s words to Timothy speak directly to us today: stay stirred up, stay focused, stay on fire.

Discuss:

• Why do you think Paul needed to remind Timothy instead of assuming he was fine?

• What are some things in life that can cause our passion for God to fade?

  
  

Stir It Up

“…fan into flame the gift of God…” (v. 6)

The phrase “fan into flame” (or “stir up” in NKJV) is active. The gift was already inside Timothy—he just needed to keep it alive.

Greek meaning: “To kindle afresh” or “keep in full flame.”

Many people are waiting for a dramatic anointing, hoping for a grand moment when God will suddenly use them. But the truth is, God is already waiting on us—to fan into flame the gift He has placed within us. It's not about stirring up our own strength or striving to become something we're not; it's about awakening what’s already there. This gift isn’t earned or stumbled upon by chance—it’s freely given. Now it’s our turn to stir it up and step into it.

1 Corinthians 3:16 (NIV)“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?”

God has already deposited His Spirit and gifts in you. Your role is to fuel the fire—through prayer, Word, fellowship, and faith steps. Fire fades without attention.

Discuss:

• What does it practically look like to “fan into flame” the gift of God in your life?

• Why do you think so many people wait for a big moment instead of acting on what they already have?

  
  

Why the Reminder to Timothy?

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (v. 7)

Fear silences gifts. Timothy had grown timid, losing boldness under cultural pressure and false teaching. Fear is the enemy’s arena—keeping us trapped by past failures and doubts.

1 John 4:18 (NIV)“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

Romans 8:15 (NIV)“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’”

Fear and faith can’t co-exist. When fear rises, remember who you belong to. You are a child of God—adopted, empowered, and loved.

Discuss:

• What fears have kept you from stepping out in your gifts?

• How does knowing you are God’s child help drive out fear?

What God Has Given Us?

Paul lists three essentials that replace fear:

a) Power

This is Holy Spirit power—strength to witness and live boldly.

Luke 24:49 (NIV)“I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Power comes when we step out in faith. It’s easier to blend in, but we’re called to be the light, not the liked.

b) Love

Power without love becomes harsh. Jesus showed ultimate power by serving others.

John 13:3–5 (NIV)“Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet…”

c) Self-discipline (Sound Mind)

The Greek word refers to calm, controlled thinking. Fear causes panic; the Spirit brings clarity and wisdom.

2 Timothy 2:3–4 (NIV)“Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.”

Discuss:

• Which of these three—power, love, self-discipline—do you need most right now? Why?

• How can you practically grow in that area this week?

  
  

Tend the Fire

The Spirit inside you is like a fire—but fire dies without fuel.

William Booth said:“The tendency of fire is to go out; watch the fire on the altar of your heart. Anyone who has tended a fireplace knows it needs to be stirred up occasionally.”

Practical Picture:

• Wood = Word of God

• Oxygen = Prayer and connection with the Holy Spirit

• Heat = Fellowship with other believers

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Final Encouragement: Don’t settle for a smoulder—go from ember to blaze. Take a step of faith this week.