As Timothy read these words, he would clearly grasp what Paul meant. The word for “fight” (agonizomai) conjured up an image of Greek boxers who fought with ox-hide gloves interlaced with lead and iron. The battle itself was brutal, but to fail to win was even more tragic. The loser often had his eyes gouged out.

Paul’s final metaphor underscores the seriousness of the Christian life. Our real competitor is Satan. We are in a fight against the forces of evil. Paul had won that fight. He had fought to the finish, and he was about to receive the victor’s crown — a special reward for faithfulness and endurance. His faith had not failed him.

Points of Action

In essence, this book is designed to help each of us as Christian men to “discipline” ourselves “for the purpose of godliness” (1 Tim. 4:7). Paul’s two profiles in his letters to Timothy and Titus outline for us 20 characteristics or qualities that define what this godliness actually is.

At the end of each chapter, I have outlined several points of action — steps we can take to develop these particular qualities in our lives. And now as we come to the end of this study, it is time to reflect back to see how we are doing.

Evaluate
In a moment you will evaluate the 20 characterisitcs we have studied. A seven-point evaluation scale ranging from dissatisfaction to satisfaction follows each characteristic. Please read the following directions:

• Fill out the questionnaire
  Read each question carefully and then circle the number that best represents where you are in your spiritual journey. Be as honest as possible, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Give yourself credit where credit is due.

• Get another point of view
  If you are married, have your spouse fill out this questionnaire to reflect her impressions of your abilities before you discuss the questions together. Then compare her scores with your own. If there are discrepancies, discuss why.
  Note: If you are single, ask a close male friend to fill out the same survey and follow the same procedures just outlined.

• Analyze the results
  First highlight your areas of strength. Then highlight areas where you want to grow and mature and become more disciplined.

• Reread and review
  Note the areas where you want to improve. Then go back to the chapters in which these qualities are discussed in depth. Reread each chapter and then review the points of action. Once again, set up specific goals you want to achieve in your Christian life.

Determine Your Maturity Quotient

Overall Spiritual Maturity