Introduction: 2 Timothy 3, gives us a sobering view of the challenges and conduct that would mark the “last days” before Christ’s return. Paul writes to Timothy with a sense of urgency, encouraging him to remain faithful in the midst of a corrupt and wicked world. He compares the wickedness of the times with the power of scripture and godly living. This chapter is a call to believers for a life of endurance in the faith, a reminder of the power of the Word, and an invitation to faithfulness for all believers. It appears that we have entered into the very last days by the signs we see around us today, the end could come at any time. For a much more detailed view of the last days, go to Matthew 24 outline of last days.
I. The Dangers of the Last Days (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
In the first verses, Paul warns Timothy that the last days will be filled with sin, wickedness and iniquity, with people loving themselves, money, and pleasures more than God. They will act religious (have a form of godliness) but deny God’s real power working in it. We read in Matthew 24:12, where Jesus foretold the same as Paul is saying here, because lawlessness will increase, the love of many will grow cold. We also read in 1 Timothy 4:1, where the Bible talks about people leaving the faith, in later times, some will abandon the faith, following deceiving spirits. Luke 21:34, Jesus warns us to be careful not to be weighed down with the pleasures of life, for no one knows the day or hour of his return (Matthew 24:36).
II. Deceptive Conduct and Opposition to Truth (2 Timothy 3:6-9)
These verses describe the individuals who prey on the meeker people and they oppose the truth of God’s Word. This foolishness will be known to all, just as Jannes and Jambres (magicians in Egypt) opposed Moses. We read about these men in Exodus 7:11, they were the pharaoh’s magicians, like Jannes and Jambres, who felt that Moses was using magic, but were ultimately defeated by God’s man. These people Paul speaks of here, evidently professing believers but as it tells us in Titus 1:16, some people claim to know God, but their actions deny Him. Also in 1 John 4:1, we read not every spirit is from God; test them to see if they are.
III. The Value of Perseverance and Scripture (2 Timothy 3:10-17)
In the final verses, Paul reminds Timothy to follow his example, his teachings also, and his way of life. He points to the fact, that all who desire to live godly will be persecuted, Christians will be persecuted in this world, Jesus said it in John 16:33. Paul reminds Timothy that he has known the Holy Scriptures from childhood, that is what will make believers wise for salvation. We read about perseverance in James 1:12, the Bible says, blessed is the one who perseveres under trial. This is the true test of anyone’s Christianity. We have a need to be knowledgeable in God’s Word, Psalm 119:11 tells us this guards us against sin. And God’s Word is our proof and testimony of salvation as we read in John 5:39, the scriptures testify about Jesus and will show us the way to eternal life.
Conclusion: 2 Timothy 3 gives us a view of a world in moral decline, like we are seeing today in year 2024, reminding believers to stand firm in their faith. Paul exhorts Timothy to continue in what he has learned (Holy Scripture), relying on the power of the God’s Word. As followers of Christ, this chapter inspires us to be aware of the challenges of our times, to live godly lives, and to hold to the truth of God’s Word. The same powerful scriptures that guided Timothy are available to us today, equipping us for what lies ahead and every good work. Let us then, in a time of opposition and moral decay, persevere with the same conviction and faithfulness that Paul encouraged in Timothy.
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