2 Timothy: Endure, Encourage, EquipSample

Difficult times will come.

The opening of chapter three is gut-wrenching, with the first nine verses describing how wickedness is on full display in teachers more focused on themselves than the glory and holiness of God.

Paul spent the first two chapters of 2 Timothy encouraging Timothy with examples of righteous behavior fit for sharing the Gospel. Now, Paul contrasts righteous behavior with the behavior of fallen teachers.

Paul’s examples of the treacherous behavior of false teachers help us identify and discern how a false teacher will act and speak—and you are warned to stay far away. This chapter also gives the church guidelines for pastor selection and accountability.

Just like in Timothy’s time—and even more so today in our electronically connected world—the believer’s own actions are as important as the discernment of others. Drawing closer to Jesus, regular study of the word, prayer, and listening to the Holy Spirit are all anchors in a believer’s life that will help bring clarity to messages and messengers of the day.

Paul continues that eventually, the actions of false teachers will be exposed for what they truly are, and the Gospel will continue to prevail. This is our great hope, which lies not in our ability to be perfect or self-righteous but in God’s ability to fulfill His Word through the sanctifying love and shed blood of His Son, Jesus Christ.

As Paul encouraged Timothy, so Paul’s letters teach us to stand firm in the truth of the Gospel, regardless of the times and what others are teaching.

1. Paul gives an extensive list of adjectives to describe the actions of false teachers. Considering the list of adjectives, what might we call a false teacher today? Should we fear such teachers?
2. What does “having a form of godliness but denying its power” look like to you (2 Timothy 3:5)? How can you guard your heart against such people?
3. In your own words, describe what it means to be “always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:7)? Do you struggle with this yourself? What are ways you can be more confident in the truth of Jesus Christ?