2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
When we look at Timothy we can see just from this passage his upbringing gave him head knowledge of who Christ was; and perhaps there wasn't an "aha" moment so to speak when he definitely was able to state was the day he came to saving faith.
That is just conjecture; but what we can discern is that it was likely just the Old Testament and those familiar with Christ's teachings from actually witnessing what happened to him to that would influence him; and that it was likely Paul's letters and some traditions would have been all of the "New" Testament available to him at the time.
Fast forwarding to today's tech savvy AI environment and we no doubt have a vast array of information available online regarding the Bible. In this segment I'm emphasizing living out faith through a human as being something a computer can't provide except by narrative accounts of saints who have largely passed this earthly realm.
What you won't gather is something perhaps rarely considered; that of those sins which we ALL learn from and how the Body of Christ works to strengthen one another. Suppose someone is given a Word; a specific scripture which happens to pierce the heart of another parishioner. A person may have no idea why the Lord prompts them to warn (let's say a verse about those inheriting the Kingdom of God not being fornicators; idoloters; adulterors; etc ( 1 Corinthians 6:9-11). This is an example of proper use of spiritual gifts; that is using scripture (and not some extrabiblical prophecy) to give a warning to someone. The person can apply it to whatever it is they are struggling with and then it can pierce the heart as Hebrews 4:12 indicates as a "two edged sword". Often men are viewed in a very one sided manner by a computer summary of their lives.
When examining the Nature of God's Judgment and Salvation program, or any doctrine, we need to be careful not to draw conclusions from a few isolated verses. The Nature of Judgment and Salvation has remained constant throughout time. In fact the Bible in its Entirety is all about the Gospel, God's Judgment and Salvation program.
2 Timothy 3:16 " All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
That said, here are a few verses that bear on the question:
John 6:37 "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out."
John 6:44 "No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day."
Ephesians 1:2-6
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved."
Ezekiel 36:24-27
"For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them."
When we harmonize everything in the Bible, we learn that God does 100% of the work in saving and keeping each of His Elect. What a comfort
This is not intended to spark a debate; rather, it is something to consider when studying Paul's and James's teachings. Paul emphasizes that salvation comes solely by God's grace through faith in Jesus, and we are not justified by the deeds or works of the law, as seen in Romans 3:28 and Ephesians 2:8-9. We must understand that nothing we do can earn our salvation. We are not under the law but under grace.
Do they contradict? When we read and study Scripture, we must do so in its proper context. 2 Timothy 3:16 states that all scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.
James does not claim that works of the law are what justify us; rather, the results of genuine faith, such as charity, are what validate it, as shown in James 2:15-16. Paul teaches that salvation is not earned by any effort of ours or by following religious law. James is not opposing salvation by grace through faith; instead, he emphasizes that works are evidence of a changed life characterized by love, mercy, and obedience.
Paul speaks the same but different wording in 1 Corinthians 13.
Romans 10:12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
The Bible in its entirety is the Word of God, and every part of it is for us. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reveals God's nature, His righteousness, His dealings with mankind, and His unfolding plan through history. Paul reminds us in Romans 15:4 that "whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." Likewise, 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms that "all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable." This makes the whole of the Bible essential for our instruction, encouragement, and understanding.
Yet, while the whole Bible is for us, not every portion is addressed directly to the Church, the Body of Christ. The Old Testament was primarily written to Israel under the covenants and the law. The Gospels show Christ ministering to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" ( Matthew 15:24). The early chapters of Acts continue that kingdom program, as Peter and the other apostles called Israel to repent so that God would send Jesus back to establish the promised kingdom ( Acts 3:19-21). These scriptures remain deeply valuable, but they are not written as direct marching orders for the Body of Christ in this present dispensation.
It is in Paul's thirteen epistles that we find teaching written to us-the Church, the Body of Christ. Paul was given the revelation of the mystery ( Ephesians 3:1-9; Colossians 1:25-27), truths not made known in other ages, specifically concerning Jew and Gentile united in one body through faith in Christ alone. In Romans through Philemon we see our doctrine, walk, and destiny laid out clearly. So while the whole Bible is for our benefit, we must recognize that only Paul's writings are directly addressed to us, giving us our distinct instructions in this age of grace.
In contrast to quick or superficial Bible reading, a slow and careful study focuses on the context, grammar, historical background, and authorial intent of each passage. This method pays attention to words like "but," "therefore," "now," and "mystery," recognizing that each word was inspired by God ( 2 Timothy 3:16).
By slowing down, we allow the Bible to interpret itself. Instead of forcing a passage to fit a preconceived theology, we ask: What does the text actually say? What does the context reveal? Who is being addressed-Israel, the Gentiles, or the Church, the Body of Christ? What covenant or dispensation is in view?
A rushed reading can lead to confusion, especially when Scriptures appear to contradict one another. But when taken slowly and rightly divided, these "contradictions" often vanish, and the harmony of Scripture becomes evident.
Apparent Contradictions in Scripture: Real or Resolved?
Let's explore some commonly cited examples of biblical "contradictions" that, when studied slowly and without denominational bias, reveal deeper understanding:
1. Faith vs. Works for Salvation
James 2:24 - "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."
Romans 4:5 - "But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."
At first glance, these verses seem to contradict each other. One speaks of justification by works, the other by faith without works.
But when we consider audience and context, the contradiction disappears.
James was writing to "the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad" ( James 1:1)-believing Jews under the kingdom program, where works demonstrated living faith (see Matthew 5-7).
Paul was writing to Gentiles in the body of Christ, saved under the gospel of grace, where faith alone justifies apart from the law.
Different programs, different audiences, different purposes-but no contradiction.
Whatever our view as to anyone who is a professed believer now being left behind after the Rapture; there is no doubt that the final implications of separation of the wheat and chaff occur with the fires of the Tribulation and the harvest of souls at that time; whether for eternal life or eternal damnation. This is not a pleasant topic; that is surely the understatement of the week.
I feel the burden of the Lord upon me on this most serious issue; and it stands out to me that few seem to be considering this in many churches today as to those growing together until the harvest today ( Matt. 13:30). Our Lord said many times; as indicated in my previous post about division. 2 Timothy 3:5 is something we should consider; I'll let the reader look that up and do some homework. So often it seems to be "us and them" as the mindset in church but remembering those Jesus excoriated the most BY FAR being the religious leaders of the Jews of that day; we need to take great care in not being Parasitical as well. One of my beefs is when discussion is not of the Lord on Sunday mornings; and that isn't so much for taking worship lightly (although that alone is a serious issue); but the fact that the camaraderie oftentimes is the only time all week many get to interact. Oftentimes; and I've probably said this many times before when there is known sin in a congregation leadership doesn't take an aggressive stance and laypersons assume it isn't their responsibility to deal with it.
I don't know about anyone else but I don't want fellowship with demons; which sounds extreme but without the Spirit being in our hearts what do we expect to be there? An immature brother from my experience is often more vocal about his own sins as someone who seems outwardly mature. Or to quote scripture; open rebuke is better than hidden love ( Prov. 27:5). Tact is a good thing but politeness simply to be nice and get along can be deadly.
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; ( 1 Timothy 4:1)
2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
I will repeat once again that the concept of John 16:8; in the fact that sin; righteousness and judgment aren't exactly the focus of many of today's confessions in professing Christian churches. The basic issue is that the end result of hell is downplayed; and people aren't expected to change from the state when they are welcomed into the fold the first time as a visitor. What they are pressured into is a particular agenda quite often that follows a course designed to promote whatever the leadership wants which often is exaltation of a Pastor and promotion through media and hype which is puffed up far beyond anything God ever intended. Rule 1 against this abuse of power is before committing to membership we should determine what the accountability for all including leadership is with doctrinal statements and proper scriptural approach mandated by Christ Himself when we see a brother in sin. PASTOR'S AREN'T IMMUNE TO SUCH DISCIPLINE!! At least in Reformed circles this is generally accepted in most congregations; it doesn't guarantee the outcome as being correct as flawed humans are involved with that process but we should avoid any leader that will not accept this for their own teaching; that can particularlly be an issue with a "stand alone" type church where there aren't elders or deacons balancing things out.
On the other side of the coin is accountability we each have as laypersons to obey the things which those in authority who enforce scripture teach and require. On the line is whether we really want Christ to rule and reign in our hearts or fall for the "rugged individualism" our nation tends to proudly stand on. Without it; we are a group who meet Sunday all flying solo.
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" 2 Timothy 3:16 KJV
Would you care to elaborate, share your thoughts on the scriptures you referenced?
Some concluding thoughts on persecution during Christ's earthly reign
Remember what I told you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.'[a] If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. ( John 15:20)
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. ( 2 Timothy 3:12).
Let us summarize several types of persecution:
1. Verbal: Accusing Christ of working with the power of Beelzebub ( Matthew 12:24)
Accusing Christ of illegitimate birth ( John 8:41)
Accusing Christ of blasphemy ( John 10:33 when they attempted to stone Him for claiming to be God
Accusing Christ of being a glutton and alcoholic (implied with response in Matthew 11:18-19) when He ate with
"sinners"
2. Physical Numerous attempts to stone Jesus; throw Him off a cliff; etc.
3. His trial
Twisting prophetic statement of destroying the Temple and rebuilding in 3 days ( Matt. 27:39-40 quoting statement made way back in John 2:19
Mocking Him with regal garments; beating Him with a rod; smashing a crown of thorns on His head; beating with a whip of metal and glass shards; spitting at Him; forcing Him to carry the cross until collapse; and the crucifixion which also involved the Jews urging Him to be crucified and releasing a murdurer; mocking Him again to "get off of the cross"; jeering from those crucified alongside Him; and many other things.
I am abbreviating this study as one needs only to read the Gospels to get a sense of the intensity of the trials which Christ endured for the sake of the elect and His disciples and to do the Father's will; first and foremost. Persecution and death for the Apostles and many in the early church is good reading also to see how true revival often is birthed.
33 Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. ( Luke 17:32-33).
To keep this verse in context; we need to see that it wasn't preservation of life that was the whole issue here; it was dying to self gratification and the world as temptations to hold us back from His deliverance when it comes. One may ask "ok what does this have to do with persecution?" In this case; the enemy had a stranglehold on Lot and his family that began when he chose to move to the fertile area of the plain and Abraham decided to hang out in the backside of the desert. Nothing wrong with that a man in the flesh would argue. It is unclear how much Lot knew about the area when he arrived; but no doubt he saw opportunity to prosper economically in that location; and it is certain that at some point the sin became so clear that it caused his "righteous soul to be vexed" ( 2 Peter 2:8 reveals that fact to us). So I am "perplexed" (get it it rhymes with vexed; ok give me some latitude it's late)...
The enemy in a sense was persecuting him; and in this case it was mostly his own fault. No one was forcing him to stay there; no doubt and based on how the story ended it is clear they had little respect for him; but until he had to speak up they probably tolerated him. That was the men's response in Genesis 19:9 when to appease the sodomites Lot offered his daughters to them instead of what they thought were men but were angels of God. God delivered Lot but it reminds us of Revelation where we are told not to be naked ( Revelation 16:15 at the onset of the bowl judgments). This is reminiscent of those who make it to heaven; but as through the fire suffering loss ( 1 Corinthians 3:15). All of scripture fits together and is useful ( 2 Timothy 3:16).
The point is; just like Jonah we can't run and hide from being salt and light and proclaiming the truth and we can't be content compromising with evil.
"But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived ( 2 Timothy 3:13).
And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. ( Matthew 24:11).
As we get closer to the time of the end; and the approach of the Antichrist's appearance; more and more false prophecies will seem to be fulfilled. It is only expected that if a man deceives the whole world as Revelation 13:8 says And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
Surely a false Messiah will appear to mirror many aspects of the true one; and reading Revelation shows how miraculous signs from heaven and most importantly an apparent restoration from death ( Revelation 13:3) after the deadly wound mentioned in Zechariah 11:17. The events of the first seal in Revelation 6:1 and also mentioned in the Daniel 9:27 passage and other verses from that book in particular show how he arises. It only takes a little homework to see that Islam teaches of an eventual 12th Imam who will arise and bring forth a time of peace; which echoes New Age; the Maitreya and other manifestations of a utopia believed to arrive after we have "evolved" to the next level.
For this study; I just pass through the final manifestation of evil on the earth in this age and will now focus on the false prophets of today as well as in the past to see characteristics. The first thing I would say is that a false prophet usually has false "profits". Titus 1:10-11 states For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. There are some who clearly are fleecing the flock for exorbitant living that are in megachurches; but other times cults will declare a vow of poverty but bilk funds.
On exploring a subject I have already undertaken in previous postings I will attempt to avoid total redundancy at least so as not to bore everyone and keep looking at different angles which at times seems to be helpful.
In this posting I would like everyone to clear their minds on what they consider free will or Predestination and look at things from the vantage point of 2 Corinthains 4:4; namely that Satan has effectively blinded folks. Let us think for a moment how a totally unbiased person with no preconceptions reacts to doctrinal truths and the spiritual world in general.
First of all we need to assess how baised we are already; not the least of which is the constant barrage of the enemy with the media blitz of all sorts of ungodly filth; and more subtle conditioning through advertising of finding contentment in material things; physical appearance and stature as this world thinks. Logically speaking; if someone can get past this obstacle to rational thought then the need is there to test what they hear against pure logic; which of course can be accomplished with proper apologetics; scripture reading and backed up by the archaelogical and historical data and information in other world literature. If we can also keep peer pressure from creeping in; many would see the strong evidence for scriptural validity.
Mere acknowledgment of course ain't enough. There has to be a real heart change; if not we only become more "religious" and find some sort of tenet or ritual to embrace whether hedonism or atheism or any other religion including Christianity but without power as 2 Timothy 3:5 states.
In all reality many are far too blinded to think impartially; so as Abraham said to the rich man in Hades even if someone came back from the dead they wouldn't believe ( Luke 16:31). And this was addressing those religious leaders who should have believed Moses and the Prophets but sought to kill the Messiah multiple times.
And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. ( Matthew 10:22).
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. ( Revelation 3:10). Also see the next verse Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.
This first verse no doubt could have a primary reference to enduring until the end of the Tribulation; but it also means that we should continue steadfast until the end of our lives on this earth; or the Rapture.
My last posting mentioned those who would think they are doing God a favor by killing us ( John 16:2). We must keep in mind that the first seal of Revelation brings about a false peace; as tied in to the Daniel 9:27 covenant with many. Naturally; the mindset of unregenerate man considers those against peace as being warmongers or traitors to the cause of world unity thence their removal from the world helps to promote the onset of the utopian society envisioned by those of such a mindset. Naturally; there will not only be the concept of a cessation of hostilities by armies fighting one another but that which promotes sin; veiled as free love; PRO deviant lifestyle; and prosperity for all. For such things to come to pass; there must be recognition of all religions; cultures and nations no matter how appalling their dogmas and practices. The surface appeal to whatever god you choose is; as 2 Timothy 3:5 states is a form of godliness denying its power (loosely translated) which is warned will be the doctrine of false teachers in the last days. All the false religions will seemingly have their prophecy of a "savior" come to pass; whether the 12th Imam (Mahdi); Maitreya or whatever false version of Christ one maintains faith in other than the literal Son of God. There will be twisting of Bible scriptures to validate as well.
Verse 12 says For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?
The rest of the chapter gets into the same themes of someone who works in a vain life is worse off than someone dying before born and other repeated thoughts. The end verse summarizes that without the Lord man basically is no better off no matter what he does in this life. We of course can die to ourselves and have the Spirit indwelling giving us a taste of things to come and hope for tomorrow.
Ecclesiastes 7
Verse 2 It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.
This shows how the folly of laughter among the wicked has no lasting value. We also see the value of true wisdom in verse 4:
4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
5 It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools. This perhaps ties in with the concept seen in 2 Timothy 3:16 and the like admonitions in Proverbs 27 amongst other places in scripture.
Moving on to verse 10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this.
This shows that we shouldn't look to how things were better as individuals earlier in our lives when we had better health; etc.
It also shows that we should look to serving the Lord for such a time as this ( Esther 4:14) rather than seeing an easier path.
Verse 20 states For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. This verse comes after admonishing not to be overly wicked OR overly righteous (loosely translated) in verses 16 and 17. To be overly righteous no doubt is man's efforts to fulfill the law which inevitably fail and where pride often takes hold of men.
2 Timothy 3:17 - That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
That the man of God may be perfect, and that means complete, mature, thoroughly furnished, which means totally trained for all good works. Again, the word good is the word AGATHOS, for spiritual good.
So, the scripture for doctrine, conviction, correction, and discipline in righteousness, is for maturity, and to train those to be ready for every good work. Peter says in 2 Peter 3:18, let us grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to grow, to become mature, to be thoroughly furnished to be involved in the work of God, especially in and against the great apostasy in the last days.
2 Timothy 4:1 - I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
He says I charge thee, literally I thoroughly testify, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
I used to read this and say to myself that this doesn't make much sense because it's obvious that dead people are not quick. But this word quick means the living.
2 Timothy 3:16 - All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
All scripture is given by inspiration of God. The term inspiration of God is one Greek word that means God breathed. All scripture is God breathed, and is profitable for these four things:
For doctrine: That's the system of the Christian faith in doctrine.
For reproof: This is a legal term that means to present proof to the court to bring about a conviction. So, it means conviction. Present evidence to bring about a conviction.
For correction: It means to bring people and make them line up with the things of God. Correction is to get people back on the right path.
For instruction in righteousness: The word instruction doesn't come from anything about teaching. In fact, it comes from the word discipline. It means to discipline children.
So, the word of God, the scriptures, is profitable for disciplining people in righteousness. This is why Timothy can have confidence. Continue in the scriptures that you already have been raised on, and in your ministry, continue this confidence by using it for doctrine, for conviction, for correction, and for discipline.
We don't see it used very much in these areas because we don't want to offend anyone. But out of love, God wants us corrected if we're going down the wrong way. God through His word will bring conviction. And He will teach us the doctrines, especially of Paul, and of Christ.
2 Timothy 3:13 - But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
Evil men and seducers shall wax, literally, shall advance worse and worse. Then we have what are called Modal Participles that tell us how they're going to advance worse and worse: By deceiving, and being deceived.
The people who are deceivers. It's not that they know the truth and they are trying to deceive people by telling them a lie. People who are deceived are deceiving others in sincerity with a deception that they believe is true, deceiving continuously, and continually being deceived.
2 Timothy 3:15 - And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
The word child is BREPHOUS (infant or newborn). From an infant, you have known the holy scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
We saw in Chapter 1 that his mother and grandmother would read the scriptures to him since he was an infant. Through the reading and explanation of the scriptures, and when Paul came to town during his first missionary journey, Timothy received Christ.
The scriptures will make you wise unto salvation. It will tell you about salvation and the need to be saved. The NT message is that it's through faith which is in Christ Jesus. He says you been having the scriptures read to you since you were an infant, and through the knowledge of the scriptures, you have found salvation through faith in Christ Jesus, so he says remain in it. Don't leave off from it.
He experienced what Proverbs 22:6 says. His grandmother and mother were faithful and devoted Jewish women who eventually came to receive Christ, and then Timothy came to receive Christ. So, he's telling him in conduct and in condition, to follow Paul and the influence of his life. Keep following the scriptures. Keep learning. Keep reading. Remain in them!
2 Timothy 3:10 - But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
The term fully known means you have closely followed. You've been right there at my side with me. You know, number one, my doctrine. Now all of these words here in Verses 10 and 11 are marked by two things. Number one, each one has the definite article "the". And each one is marked by a personal pronoun "my." So, he has my doctrine, but all of them have "my." Paul is emphasizing the doctrine that belongs to me, the whole scope of all of my doctrine.
My manner of life. It's a Greek word that means to conduct yourself, to be led around running errands and taking care of business for the day. So, you've known my doctrine, you've known my manner of life, you know my whole purpose for living, you know my faith, you know my longsuffering.
Longsuffering, MAKROTHUMIA, means slow in human reaction towards other people. This is different than the word for patience. Patience means to remain under circumstances. Longsuffering applies to people. Sometimes it's both remain under your circumstances and be slow in reaction to other people.
The word charity is the word AGAPE, AGAPE love. You know my love. You know my patience. Here's the word for circumstances, to remain under. That's what patience means.
2 Timothy 3:12 - Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
How do you like that promise to claim? Literally, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. We live in a hostile environment. The worlds system is against those who belong to Christ. Satan, who is the god of this world, is hostile against God's people. So, we can expect that the physical world is not always going to cooperate with us.
So, concerning conduct, it is interesting that Paul wasn't just telling Timothy little bits and pieces of how to live his life. He basically used himself as an example.
2 Timothy 3:8 - Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth:
These are two people who are amongst the magicians in the book of Exodus, that withstood, or resisted Moses. And it says so do these also resist the truth:
They don't want to hear it. They don't believe it. They say all I want to do is worship. I don't want to study the bible. And they'll say things like that is your interpretation, or that's your opinion. One of the false ideas going around in the body of Christ today is that the bible doesn't say one thing. People say the bible is relative. It's whatever it means to you.
1 Peter 2:2 shoots that down, because Peter said the word of God is without duplicity, without double meaning. Whatever the writer was inspired to write, that's what it means. It doesn't mean anything else.
They resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, and the word mind is the word for perception. They are reprobate concerning the faith. Reprobate means rejection. They reject the faith. And again, that doesn't mean that they don't believe in God. They just reject trusting Him. And they want to do God's work in their own hands.
2 Timothy 3:6 - For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
For of this sort (out of this group of people that we've just studied about), are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women, and the term silly women means weak women, weakness of integrity, and there are 3 things: burdened down with sins. So, they're in the body of Christ seducing people. Secondly, being led away with divers lusts.
2 Timothy 3:7 - Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
And thirdly: ever learning. That is, they're always learning, but never able to come to the full knowledge, notice the translation, never able to come to the full knowledge of the truth, not just knowledge, but full knowledge of the truth.
These are people who are always learning, picking up bits of information, but they don't get the whole picture. This is an immoral activity in the church in the last days.
2 Timothy 3:5 - Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Having a form of godliness. They can have any one, if not all of these characteristics. Denying the power thereof: To deny doesn't mean that they deny that God has power. Everybody that believes in God believes He has power. It doesn't mean that somebody denies that. It means to reject.
We're seeing this right now more and more amongst the church, having a form of godliness (outward form and system), but rejecting God's power, and instead doing it ourselves. Jesus said ( Luke 18:1) that when the Son of man comes, will He find the faith upon the earth? The apostasy of the last days will be a challenge to faith.
It has nothing to do with our performance. It's denying the power of God if it's my performance. God promises to do His work through us, not for us to take His work into our hands and run it for Him. It's gotten worse over the years. There seems to be a philosophy in the church that Jesus ascended up into heaven to the right hand of the Father, and He has left us to do His work for Him until He gets back. It's like He's not here, like He's not the head of the church, like He doesn't run things.
When Jesus comes, will He find the faith on the earth? Will He find people saying "Lord, we have been waiting for your coming according to your word, because we believe you can fulfil your word?" That's faith!
The command at the end of Verse 5 says from such turn away, disassociate yourself with such people. That's hard and stern advice. In 1 Corinthians, Paul says that corrupt morals affect good morals. It's not the other way around.
If I decide to hang out with people that are not of good morals so that I can influence them, the bible says that these people with their corrupt morals will influence me, not me influencing them. Paul says to disassociate with such people because they will affect you. You'll get caught up in it.
2 Timothy 3:4 - Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Traitors. These are people who are not faithful. They'd turn you in if they had a chance.
Heady. These would be people who impulsively go by whatever passes through the mind.
Highminded. This literally means to be puffed up. This is a Perfect Tense in the Greek text which describes a condition, a person who is highminded, arrogant, puffed up. Sometimes we say that people are so arrogant that they are "blowing smoke," and that's where this comes from.
Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; This is very prevalent in our day. The word pleasures is the word hedonistic. It's not just a desire. Our culture thrives on things. When we have time off, we look to do things that satisfy our hedonistic desires.
But notice this: It says more than lovers of God. And again, this is the word PHILOS for love. People might go to church. They might say I love God. but most of their life is spent fulfilling their hedonistic human desires.
And with all of these characteristics, Verse 5 is in what is called Participial Form, which means that these people are in the church, they are not saved, but there's a certain characteristic about them. And their principle and doctrine can spread in the church and affect those people who are saved.
2 Timothy 3:3 - Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Without natural affection. This is without natural family affection, family members not having that affection. And we see that family affection is broken more and more in our days.
Tenthly, trucebreakers. This is an interesting word. It means to be without libation, or drink. In those days, they used to take a beverage and drink to the contract. And so a trucebreaker is somebody who makes a contract, but he never keeps it.
False accusers. This is the word DIABALOS. It's where we get our word devil from. DIA means through, and BALOS is to throw or to cast, to cast through. They are slanderers.
Incontinent, which literally means without a grip, out of control. Whenever you tell somebody "Get a grip" on your life because you're out of control, that's what this is making reference to.
Thirteen, the word fierce. The word fierce means savage, an untamed animal.
Fourteen is one Greek word that means despisers of good things. There are several Greek words for good in the New Testament. This is AGATHOS which means spiritual good. Despisers of good things of God.
There are some that are doing that who are not doing it as boasters, but most people do. In our society people strive for things. When young people get cars, they try and pick one that fits their image, and that's why they roll the window down and crank up the stereo so you can hear it three miles away. So, boasters are people who use material things to boast.
Proud, blasphemers, and the word blasphemy, first of all when it's towards God, it is anything that is against God. But when it's towards people, it is the same word that is used for slander.
Sixthly, disobedient to parents. The word disobedience means a refusal to be persuaded. Now we know in Ephesians 6:1, it says children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. The word obey is HUPAKOUO which means put your hearing under.
That's what obedience is. Children are to put their hearing under their parents as the parents are leading and guiding them, especially in the things of the Lord. Well, in the last days children will be disobedient. They will refuse to be persuaded by the parents.
Seventhly, unthankful. In the Greek text, this is the word grace, CHARIS, with the alpha-privative in front of it. Thankfulness is actually a response to God's grace. That's what it means. Thankfulness does not originate with me thanking God. It's my response to the grace of God upon my life.
Unholy, that is, profaning the holy things of God.
2 Timothy 3:2 - For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Number one, for men shall be lovers of their own selves. Secondly, covetous, which literally means lovers of money, PHILARGUROI. It is the same word that is found in 1 Timothy 6:10 where it says for the love of money is the root of all evil.
So, the first two have to do with love, lovers of their own selves, and lovers of money. The word love is PHILOS, which means to be fond of or to be friendly towards. It means to rearrange one's life to make these things a priority, first our own selves, and then money.
Thirdly, boasters. This word is found in 1 John 2:15-16. John says love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
Pride of life is the same word. And the pride of life is not of the Father, but is of the world. So, when it has to do with material things, it has to do with using one's material things to boast. In other words, I go out and buy two or three expensive cars, and I build a multimillion-dollar house up on a hill and try to get the best of everything. It's a status thing!
2 Timothy 2:17 - And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
The word canker (GAGGRAINA) is the Greek word for gang green. If you listen to enough people who are not teaching the truth, your soul will not be healthy. It will be diseased. Hymenaeus and Philetus were two people who began to teach something that was different than what Paul said.
2 Timothy 2:21 - If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
The word purge is the word cleanse, himself from these things, that is, these iniquities, he shall be a vessel for honor,
3 things: Having been sanctified (set apart). And meet (more literally useful), for the master. And thirdly, prepared unto every good work. Again, the word good is AGATHOS which has to do with spiritual good. The one who comes for cleansing and confessing his sins, will be a vessel of honor, set apart by God for His use, and prepared for every good work that God has for them.
2 Timothy 3:1 - This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
He says this know. That's a command. In the last days perilous times shall come. The word perilous is translated variously by the word danger or difficult, and the Greek word itself, CHALEPOS, means more than just difficult times.
The other place in which this word perilous is found is in Matthew 8:28. This is when Jesus came across the lake to the other side of the country of the Gergesenes. And there met Him two possessed with devils coming out of the tombs. These were two men who were demon possessed, exceeding fierce (CHALEPOS). It means to be fierce, or harsh. It describes the activity of demons. In the last days, it's not just going to be difficult times. It's going to be fierce. It's going to be harsh. He gives the reason starting in Verse 2, as he lists for us 18 characteristics of people in the last days.
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bearfalsewitness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Apostle Paul said that we will be calls false witnesses for God in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 15:15
Yea, and we are foundfalsewitnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not.
Apostle Paul warns us of false apostles.
2 Corinthians 11:13
For such arefalseapostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
Apostle Paul warns us of false Jews in the ministry.
2 Corinthians 11:26
In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils amongfalsebrethren;
Apostle Paul said that false Jews will spy and try to put us in bondage inwhich is the law.
Galatians 2:4
And that because offalsebrethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
Apostle Paul warns us of false science and vain babblings.
1 Timothy 6:20
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of sciencefalsely so called:
Apostle Paul warns us of false accusers.
2 Timothy 3:3
Without natural affection, trucebreakers,falseaccusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
( 1 Cor. 6:9-11)
This section of 3 verses pretty much sums up what culture is promoting these days. To be delivered from sin and live a new life doesn't mean we no longer sin but we are affected by the grieving of the Spirit when we turn our backs on God and don't live a lifestyle characterized in this manner again. The question as to whether we are dealing with a brother who is backslidden or someone deceived as to being saved at all means of course we have to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith; again that is another topic.
Romans 1:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Here we see what is sadly often the case; those calling themselves Christians in order to increase their own financial gain cowtow to those who are obviously in rebellion and themselves often are deceived while deceiving others ( 2 Timothy 3:13).
How sad that the opposite doesn't occur more; that those who do believe the truth invite the lame; blind; poor and other miserable wretches of society to eat with them and spend time with these individuals out of concern for their souls. It is much more likely among individual parishioners than pastoral leadership in most places today; for if their isn't financial incentive for many in leadership there are ego perks involved; whether in meetings with other Pastors or doing community service.
2 Timothy 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
When we look at Timothy we can see just from this passage his upbringing gave him head knowledge of who Christ was; and perhaps there wasn't an "aha" moment so to speak when he definitely was able to state was the day he came to saving faith.
That is just conjecture; but what we can discern is that it was likely just the Old Testament and those familiar with Christ's teachings from actually witnessing what happened to him to that would influence him; and that it was likely Paul's letters and some traditions would have been all of the "New" Testament available to him at the time.
Fast forwarding to today's tech savvy AI environment and we no doubt have a vast array of information available online regarding the Bible. In this segment I'm emphasizing living out faith through a human as being something a computer can't provide except by narrative accounts of saints who have largely passed this earthly realm.
What you won't gather is something perhaps rarely considered; that of those sins which we ALL learn from and how the Body of Christ works to strengthen one another. Suppose someone is given a Word; a specific scripture which happens to pierce the heart of another parishioner. A person may have no idea why the Lord prompts them to warn (let's say a verse about those inheriting the Kingdom of God not being fornicators; idoloters; adulterors; etc ( 1 Corinthians 6:9-11). This is an example of proper use of spiritual gifts; that is using scripture (and not some extrabiblical prophecy) to give a warning to someone. The person can apply it to whatever it is they are struggling with and then it can pierce the heart as Hebrews 4:12 indicates as a "two edged sword". Often men are viewed in a very one sided manner by a computer summary of their lives.
Outta room.
2 Timothy 3:16 " All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
That said, here are a few verses that bear on the question:
John 6:37 "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out."
John 6:44 "No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day."
Ephesians 1:2-6
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved."
Ezekiel 36:24-27
"For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them."
When we harmonize everything in the Bible, we learn that God does 100% of the work in saving and keeping each of His Elect. What a comfort
All scripture is given by the inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction for instruction in righteousness:
So why are some scriptures being overlooked or underlooked? Rev 1:14, Daniel 10:6, Songs 1:5, etc... What do they mean?
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God,
and isprofitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
John 3:34
"For he whom God hath sent speaketh the
words of God: for God giveth not the
Spirit by measure unto him."
Matthew 10:20
"For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit
of your Father which speaketh in you."
2 Timothy 2:15
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,
rightly dividing the word of truth
Matthew 10:42
"And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you,
he shall in no wise lose his reward."
Matthew 10:41
"He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward;
and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a
righteous man's reward."
This is not intended to spark a debate; rather, it is something to consider when studying Paul's and James's teachings. Paul emphasizes that salvation comes solely by God's grace through faith in Jesus, and we are not justified by the deeds or works of the law, as seen in Romans 3:28 and Ephesians 2:8-9. We must understand that nothing we do can earn our salvation. We are not under the law but under grace.
Do they contradict? When we read and study Scripture, we must do so in its proper context. 2 Timothy 3:16 states that all scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.
James does not claim that works of the law are what justify us; rather, the results of genuine faith, such as charity, are what validate it, as shown in James 2:15-16. Paul teaches that salvation is not earned by any effort of ours or by following religious law. James is not opposing salvation by grace through faith; instead, he emphasizes that works are evidence of a changed life characterized by love, mercy, and obedience.
Paul speaks the same but different wording in 1 Corinthians 13.
Romans 10:12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
God bless,
RLW
The Bible in its entirety is the Word of God, and every part of it is for us. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reveals God's nature, His righteousness, His dealings with mankind, and His unfolding plan through history. Paul reminds us in Romans 15:4 that "whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." Likewise, 2 Timothy 3:16 affirms that "all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable." This makes the whole of the Bible essential for our instruction, encouragement, and understanding.
Yet, while the whole Bible is for us, not every portion is addressed directly to the Church, the Body of Christ. The Old Testament was primarily written to Israel under the covenants and the law. The Gospels show Christ ministering to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" ( Matthew 15:24). The early chapters of Acts continue that kingdom program, as Peter and the other apostles called Israel to repent so that God would send Jesus back to establish the promised kingdom ( Acts 3:19-21). These scriptures remain deeply valuable, but they are not written as direct marching orders for the Body of Christ in this present dispensation.
It is in Paul's thirteen epistles that we find teaching written to us-the Church, the Body of Christ. Paul was given the revelation of the mystery ( Ephesians 3:1-9; Colossians 1:25-27), truths not made known in other ages, specifically concerning Jew and Gentile united in one body through faith in Christ alone. In Romans through Philemon we see our doctrine, walk, and destiny laid out clearly. So while the whole Bible is for our benefit, we must recognize that only Paul's writings are directly addressed to us, giving us our distinct instructions in this age of grace.
Grace and Peace
The Importance of Slowing Down
In contrast to quick or superficial Bible reading, a slow and careful study focuses on the context, grammar, historical background, and authorial intent of each passage. This method pays attention to words like "but," "therefore," "now," and "mystery," recognizing that each word was inspired by God ( 2 Timothy 3:16).
By slowing down, we allow the Bible to interpret itself. Instead of forcing a passage to fit a preconceived theology, we ask: What does the text actually say? What does the context reveal? Who is being addressed-Israel, the Gentiles, or the Church, the Body of Christ? What covenant or dispensation is in view?
A rushed reading can lead to confusion, especially when Scriptures appear to contradict one another. But when taken slowly and rightly divided, these "contradictions" often vanish, and the harmony of Scripture becomes evident.
Apparent Contradictions in Scripture: Real or Resolved?
Let's explore some commonly cited examples of biblical "contradictions" that, when studied slowly and without denominational bias, reveal deeper understanding:
1. Faith vs. Works for Salvation
James 2:24 - "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."
Romans 4:5 - "But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."
At first glance, these verses seem to contradict each other. One speaks of justification by works, the other by faith without works.
But when we consider audience and context, the contradiction disappears.
James was writing to "the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad" ( James 1:1)-believing Jews under the kingdom program, where works demonstrated living faith (see Matthew 5-7).
Paul was writing to Gentiles in the body of Christ, saved under the gospel of grace, where faith alone justifies apart from the law.
Different programs, different audiences, different purposes-but no contradiction.
Whatever our view as to anyone who is a professed believer now being left behind after the Rapture; there is no doubt that the final implications of separation of the wheat and chaff occur with the fires of the Tribulation and the harvest of souls at that time; whether for eternal life or eternal damnation. This is not a pleasant topic; that is surely the understatement of the week.
I feel the burden of the Lord upon me on this most serious issue; and it stands out to me that few seem to be considering this in many churches today as to those growing together until the harvest today ( Matt. 13:30). Our Lord said many times; as indicated in my previous post about division. 2 Timothy 3:5 is something we should consider; I'll let the reader look that up and do some homework. So often it seems to be "us and them" as the mindset in church but remembering those Jesus excoriated the most BY FAR being the religious leaders of the Jews of that day; we need to take great care in not being Parasitical as well. One of my beefs is when discussion is not of the Lord on Sunday mornings; and that isn't so much for taking worship lightly (although that alone is a serious issue); but the fact that the camaraderie oftentimes is the only time all week many get to interact. Oftentimes; and I've probably said this many times before when there is known sin in a congregation leadership doesn't take an aggressive stance and laypersons assume it isn't their responsibility to deal with it.
I don't know about anyone else but I don't want fellowship with demons; which sounds extreme but without the Spirit being in our hearts what do we expect to be there? An immature brother from my experience is often more vocal about his own sins as someone who seems outwardly mature. Or to quote scripture; open rebuke is better than hidden love ( Prov. 27:5). Tact is a good thing but politeness simply to be nice and get along can be deadly.
2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
I will repeat once again that the concept of John 16:8; in the fact that sin; righteousness and judgment aren't exactly the focus of many of today's confessions in professing Christian churches. The basic issue is that the end result of hell is downplayed; and people aren't expected to change from the state when they are welcomed into the fold the first time as a visitor. What they are pressured into is a particular agenda quite often that follows a course designed to promote whatever the leadership wants which often is exaltation of a Pastor and promotion through media and hype which is puffed up far beyond anything God ever intended. Rule 1 against this abuse of power is before committing to membership we should determine what the accountability for all including leadership is with doctrinal statements and proper scriptural approach mandated by Christ Himself when we see a brother in sin. PASTOR'S AREN'T IMMUNE TO SUCH DISCIPLINE!! At least in Reformed circles this is generally accepted in most congregations; it doesn't guarantee the outcome as being correct as flawed humans are involved with that process but we should avoid any leader that will not accept this for their own teaching; that can particularlly be an issue with a "stand alone" type church where there aren't elders or deacons balancing things out.
On the other side of the coin is accountability we each have as laypersons to obey the things which those in authority who enforce scripture teach and require. On the line is whether we really want Christ to rule and reign in our hearts or fall for the "rugged individualism" our nation tends to proudly stand on. Without it; we are a group who meet Sunday all flying solo.
Thanks for your reply, great scriptures...
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" 2 Timothy 3:16 KJV
Would you care to elaborate, share your thoughts on the scriptures you referenced?
Blessings!
Remember what I told you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.'[a] If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. ( John 15:20)
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. ( 2 Timothy 3:12).
Let us summarize several types of persecution:
1. Verbal: Accusing Christ of working with the power of Beelzebub ( Matthew 12:24)
Accusing Christ of illegitimate birth ( John 8:41)
Accusing Christ of blasphemy ( John 10:33 when they attempted to stone Him for claiming to be God
Accusing Christ of being a glutton and alcoholic (implied with response in Matthew 11:18-19) when He ate with
"sinners"
2. Physical Numerous attempts to stone Jesus; throw Him off a cliff; etc.
3. His trial
Twisting prophetic statement of destroying the Temple and rebuilding in 3 days ( Matt. 27:39-40 quoting statement made way back in John 2:19
Mocking Him with regal garments; beating Him with a rod; smashing a crown of thorns on His head; beating with a whip of metal and glass shards; spitting at Him; forcing Him to carry the cross until collapse; and the crucifixion which also involved the Jews urging Him to be crucified and releasing a murdurer; mocking Him again to "get off of the cross"; jeering from those crucified alongside Him; and many other things.
I am abbreviating this study as one needs only to read the Gospels to get a sense of the intensity of the trials which Christ endured for the sake of the elect and His disciples and to do the Father's will; first and foremost. Persecution and death for the Apostles and many in the early church is good reading also to see how true revival often is birthed.
Agape.
33 Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. ( Luke 17:32-33).
To keep this verse in context; we need to see that it wasn't preservation of life that was the whole issue here; it was dying to self gratification and the world as temptations to hold us back from His deliverance when it comes. One may ask "ok what does this have to do with persecution?" In this case; the enemy had a stranglehold on Lot and his family that began when he chose to move to the fertile area of the plain and Abraham decided to hang out in the backside of the desert. Nothing wrong with that a man in the flesh would argue. It is unclear how much Lot knew about the area when he arrived; but no doubt he saw opportunity to prosper economically in that location; and it is certain that at some point the sin became so clear that it caused his "righteous soul to be vexed" ( 2 Peter 2:8 reveals that fact to us). So I am "perplexed" (get it it rhymes with vexed; ok give me some latitude it's late)...
The enemy in a sense was persecuting him; and in this case it was mostly his own fault. No one was forcing him to stay there; no doubt and based on how the story ended it is clear they had little respect for him; but until he had to speak up they probably tolerated him. That was the men's response in Genesis 19:9 when to appease the sodomites Lot offered his daughters to them instead of what they thought were men but were angels of God. God delivered Lot but it reminds us of Revelation where we are told not to be naked ( Revelation 16:15 at the onset of the bowl judgments). This is reminiscent of those who make it to heaven; but as through the fire suffering loss ( 1 Corinthians 3:15). All of scripture fits together and is useful ( 2 Timothy 3:16).
The point is; just like Jonah we can't run and hide from being salt and light and proclaiming the truth and we can't be content compromising with evil.
"But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived ( 2 Timothy 3:13).
And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. ( Matthew 24:11).
As we get closer to the time of the end; and the approach of the Antichrist's appearance; more and more false prophecies will seem to be fulfilled. It is only expected that if a man deceives the whole world as Revelation 13:8 says And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
Surely a false Messiah will appear to mirror many aspects of the true one; and reading Revelation shows how miraculous signs from heaven and most importantly an apparent restoration from death ( Revelation 13:3) after the deadly wound mentioned in Zechariah 11:17. The events of the first seal in Revelation 6:1 and also mentioned in the Daniel 9:27 passage and other verses from that book in particular show how he arises. It only takes a little homework to see that Islam teaches of an eventual 12th Imam who will arise and bring forth a time of peace; which echoes New Age; the Maitreya and other manifestations of a utopia believed to arrive after we have "evolved" to the next level.
For this study; I just pass through the final manifestation of evil on the earth in this age and will now focus on the false prophets of today as well as in the past to see characteristics. The first thing I would say is that a false prophet usually has false "profits". Titus 1:10-11 states For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole households, teaching things which they ought not, for the sake of dishonest gain. There are some who clearly are fleecing the flock for exorbitant living that are in megachurches; but other times cults will declare a vow of poverty but bilk funds.
On exploring a subject I have already undertaken in previous postings I will attempt to avoid total redundancy at least so as not to bore everyone and keep looking at different angles which at times seems to be helpful.
In this posting I would like everyone to clear their minds on what they consider free will or Predestination and look at things from the vantage point of 2 Corinthains 4:4; namely that Satan has effectively blinded folks. Let us think for a moment how a totally unbiased person with no preconceptions reacts to doctrinal truths and the spiritual world in general.
First of all we need to assess how baised we are already; not the least of which is the constant barrage of the enemy with the media blitz of all sorts of ungodly filth; and more subtle conditioning through advertising of finding contentment in material things; physical appearance and stature as this world thinks. Logically speaking; if someone can get past this obstacle to rational thought then the need is there to test what they hear against pure logic; which of course can be accomplished with proper apologetics; scripture reading and backed up by the archaelogical and historical data and information in other world literature. If we can also keep peer pressure from creeping in; many would see the strong evidence for scriptural validity.
Mere acknowledgment of course ain't enough. There has to be a real heart change; if not we only become more "religious" and find some sort of tenet or ritual to embrace whether hedonism or atheism or any other religion including Christianity but without power as 2 Timothy 3:5 states.
In all reality many are far too blinded to think impartially; so as Abraham said to the rich man in Hades even if someone came back from the dead they wouldn't believe ( Luke 16:31). And this was addressing those religious leaders who should have believed Moses and the Prophets but sought to kill the Messiah multiple times.
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. ( Revelation 3:10). Also see the next verse Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.
This first verse no doubt could have a primary reference to enduring until the end of the Tribulation; but it also means that we should continue steadfast until the end of our lives on this earth; or the Rapture.
My last posting mentioned those who would think they are doing God a favor by killing us ( John 16:2). We must keep in mind that the first seal of Revelation brings about a false peace; as tied in to the Daniel 9:27 covenant with many. Naturally; the mindset of unregenerate man considers those against peace as being warmongers or traitors to the cause of world unity thence their removal from the world helps to promote the onset of the utopian society envisioned by those of such a mindset. Naturally; there will not only be the concept of a cessation of hostilities by armies fighting one another but that which promotes sin; veiled as free love; PRO deviant lifestyle; and prosperity for all. For such things to come to pass; there must be recognition of all religions; cultures and nations no matter how appalling their dogmas and practices. The surface appeal to whatever god you choose is; as 2 Timothy 3:5 states is a form of godliness denying its power (loosely translated) which is warned will be the doctrine of false teachers in the last days. All the false religions will seemingly have their prophecy of a "savior" come to pass; whether the 12th Imam (Mahdi); Maitreya or whatever false version of Christ one maintains faith in other than the literal Son of God. There will be twisting of Bible scriptures to validate as well.
Verse 12 says For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?
The rest of the chapter gets into the same themes of someone who works in a vain life is worse off than someone dying before born and other repeated thoughts. The end verse summarizes that without the Lord man basically is no better off no matter what he does in this life. We of course can die to ourselves and have the Spirit indwelling giving us a taste of things to come and hope for tomorrow.
Ecclesiastes 7
Verse 2 It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.
This shows how the folly of laughter among the wicked has no lasting value. We also see the value of true wisdom in verse 4:
4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
5 It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools. This perhaps ties in with the concept seen in 2 Timothy 3:16 and the like admonitions in Proverbs 27 amongst other places in scripture.
Moving on to verse 10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this.
This shows that we shouldn't look to how things were better as individuals earlier in our lives when we had better health; etc.
It also shows that we should look to serving the Lord for such a time as this ( Esther 4:14) rather than seeing an easier path.
Verse 20 states For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. This verse comes after admonishing not to be overly wicked OR overly righteous (loosely translated) in verses 16 and 17. To be overly righteous no doubt is man's efforts to fulfill the law which inevitably fail and where pride often takes hold of men.
2 Timothy 3:17 - That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
That the man of God may be perfect, and that means complete, mature, thoroughly furnished, which means totally trained for all good works. Again, the word good is the word AGATHOS, for spiritual good.
So, the scripture for doctrine, conviction, correction, and discipline in righteousness, is for maturity, and to train those to be ready for every good work. Peter says in 2 Peter 3:18, let us grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to grow, to become mature, to be thoroughly furnished to be involved in the work of God, especially in and against the great apostasy in the last days.
2 Timothy 4:1 - I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
He says I charge thee, literally I thoroughly testify, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
I used to read this and say to myself that this doesn't make much sense because it's obvious that dead people are not quick. But this word quick means the living.
2 Timothy 3:16 - All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
All scripture is given by inspiration of God. The term inspiration of God is one Greek word that means God breathed. All scripture is God breathed, and is profitable for these four things:
For doctrine: That's the system of the Christian faith in doctrine.
For reproof: This is a legal term that means to present proof to the court to bring about a conviction. So, it means conviction. Present evidence to bring about a conviction.
For correction: It means to bring people and make them line up with the things of God. Correction is to get people back on the right path.
For instruction in righteousness: The word instruction doesn't come from anything about teaching. In fact, it comes from the word discipline. It means to discipline children.
So, the word of God, the scriptures, is profitable for disciplining people in righteousness. This is why Timothy can have confidence. Continue in the scriptures that you already have been raised on, and in your ministry, continue this confidence by using it for doctrine, for conviction, for correction, and for discipline.
We don't see it used very much in these areas because we don't want to offend anyone. But out of love, God wants us corrected if we're going down the wrong way. God through His word will bring conviction. And He will teach us the doctrines, especially of Paul, and of Christ.
2 Timothy 3:13 - But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
Evil men and seducers shall wax, literally, shall advance worse and worse. Then we have what are called Modal Participles that tell us how they're going to advance worse and worse: By deceiving, and being deceived.
The people who are deceivers. It's not that they know the truth and they are trying to deceive people by telling them a lie. People who are deceived are deceiving others in sincerity with a deception that they believe is true, deceiving continuously, and continually being deceived.
2 Timothy 3:15 - And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
The word child is BREPHOUS (infant or newborn). From an infant, you have known the holy scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
We saw in Chapter 1 that his mother and grandmother would read the scriptures to him since he was an infant. Through the reading and explanation of the scriptures, and when Paul came to town during his first missionary journey, Timothy received Christ.
The scriptures will make you wise unto salvation. It will tell you about salvation and the need to be saved. The NT message is that it's through faith which is in Christ Jesus. He says you been having the scriptures read to you since you were an infant, and through the knowledge of the scriptures, you have found salvation through faith in Christ Jesus, so he says remain in it. Don't leave off from it.
He experienced what Proverbs 22:6 says. His grandmother and mother were faithful and devoted Jewish women who eventually came to receive Christ, and then Timothy came to receive Christ. So, he's telling him in conduct and in condition, to follow Paul and the influence of his life. Keep following the scriptures. Keep learning. Keep reading. Remain in them!
2 Timothy 3:10 - But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
The term fully known means you have closely followed. You've been right there at my side with me. You know, number one, my doctrine. Now all of these words here in Verses 10 and 11 are marked by two things. Number one, each one has the definite article "the". And each one is marked by a personal pronoun "my." So, he has my doctrine, but all of them have "my." Paul is emphasizing the doctrine that belongs to me, the whole scope of all of my doctrine.
My manner of life. It's a Greek word that means to conduct yourself, to be led around running errands and taking care of business for the day. So, you've known my doctrine, you've known my manner of life, you know my whole purpose for living, you know my faith, you know my longsuffering.
Longsuffering, MAKROTHUMIA, means slow in human reaction towards other people. This is different than the word for patience. Patience means to remain under circumstances. Longsuffering applies to people. Sometimes it's both remain under your circumstances and be slow in reaction to other people.
The word charity is the word AGAPE, AGAPE love. You know my love. You know my patience. Here's the word for circumstances, to remain under. That's what patience means.
2 Timothy 3:12 - Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
How do you like that promise to claim? Literally, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. We live in a hostile environment. The worlds system is against those who belong to Christ. Satan, who is the god of this world, is hostile against God's people. So, we can expect that the physical world is not always going to cooperate with us.
So, concerning conduct, it is interesting that Paul wasn't just telling Timothy little bits and pieces of how to live his life. He basically used himself as an example.
2 Timothy 3:8 - Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth:
These are two people who are amongst the magicians in the book of Exodus, that withstood, or resisted Moses. And it says so do these also resist the truth:
They don't want to hear it. They don't believe it. They say all I want to do is worship. I don't want to study the bible. And they'll say things like that is your interpretation, or that's your opinion. One of the false ideas going around in the body of Christ today is that the bible doesn't say one thing. People say the bible is relative. It's whatever it means to you.
1 Peter 2:2 shoots that down, because Peter said the word of God is without duplicity, without double meaning. Whatever the writer was inspired to write, that's what it means. It doesn't mean anything else.
They resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, and the word mind is the word for perception. They are reprobate concerning the faith. Reprobate means rejection. They reject the faith. And again, that doesn't mean that they don't believe in God. They just reject trusting Him. And they want to do God's work in their own hands.
2 Timothy 3:6 - For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
For of this sort (out of this group of people that we've just studied about), are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women, and the term silly women means weak women, weakness of integrity, and there are 3 things: burdened down with sins. So, they're in the body of Christ seducing people. Secondly, being led away with divers lusts.
2 Timothy 3:7 - Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
And thirdly: ever learning. That is, they're always learning, but never able to come to the full knowledge, notice the translation, never able to come to the full knowledge of the truth, not just knowledge, but full knowledge of the truth.
These are people who are always learning, picking up bits of information, but they don't get the whole picture. This is an immoral activity in the church in the last days.
2 Timothy 3:5 - Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Having a form of godliness. They can have any one, if not all of these characteristics. Denying the power thereof: To deny doesn't mean that they deny that God has power. Everybody that believes in God believes He has power. It doesn't mean that somebody denies that. It means to reject.
We're seeing this right now more and more amongst the church, having a form of godliness (outward form and system), but rejecting God's power, and instead doing it ourselves. Jesus said ( Luke 18:1) that when the Son of man comes, will He find the faith upon the earth? The apostasy of the last days will be a challenge to faith.
It has nothing to do with our performance. It's denying the power of God if it's my performance. God promises to do His work through us, not for us to take His work into our hands and run it for Him. It's gotten worse over the years. There seems to be a philosophy in the church that Jesus ascended up into heaven to the right hand of the Father, and He has left us to do His work for Him until He gets back. It's like He's not here, like He's not the head of the church, like He doesn't run things.
When Jesus comes, will He find the faith on the earth? Will He find people saying "Lord, we have been waiting for your coming according to your word, because we believe you can fulfil your word?" That's faith!
The command at the end of Verse 5 says from such turn away, disassociate yourself with such people. That's hard and stern advice. In 1 Corinthians, Paul says that corrupt morals affect good morals. It's not the other way around.
If I decide to hang out with people that are not of good morals so that I can influence them, the bible says that these people with their corrupt morals will influence me, not me influencing them. Paul says to disassociate with such people because they will affect you. You'll get caught up in it.
2 Timothy 3:4 - Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
Traitors. These are people who are not faithful. They'd turn you in if they had a chance.
Heady. These would be people who impulsively go by whatever passes through the mind.
Highminded. This literally means to be puffed up. This is a Perfect Tense in the Greek text which describes a condition, a person who is highminded, arrogant, puffed up. Sometimes we say that people are so arrogant that they are "blowing smoke," and that's where this comes from.
Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; This is very prevalent in our day. The word pleasures is the word hedonistic. It's not just a desire. Our culture thrives on things. When we have time off, we look to do things that satisfy our hedonistic desires.
But notice this: It says more than lovers of God. And again, this is the word PHILOS for love. People might go to church. They might say I love God. but most of their life is spent fulfilling their hedonistic human desires.
And with all of these characteristics, Verse 5 is in what is called Participial Form, which means that these people are in the church, they are not saved, but there's a certain characteristic about them. And their principle and doctrine can spread in the church and affect those people who are saved.
2 Timothy 3:3 - Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Without natural affection. This is without natural family affection, family members not having that affection. And we see that family affection is broken more and more in our days.
Tenthly, trucebreakers. This is an interesting word. It means to be without libation, or drink. In those days, they used to take a beverage and drink to the contract. And so a trucebreaker is somebody who makes a contract, but he never keeps it.
False accusers. This is the word DIABALOS. It's where we get our word devil from. DIA means through, and BALOS is to throw or to cast, to cast through. They are slanderers.
Incontinent, which literally means without a grip, out of control. Whenever you tell somebody "Get a grip" on your life because you're out of control, that's what this is making reference to.
Thirteen, the word fierce. The word fierce means savage, an untamed animal.
Fourteen is one Greek word that means despisers of good things. There are several Greek words for good in the New Testament. This is AGATHOS which means spiritual good. Despisers of good things of God.
In Verse 4, we have number 15:
2 Timothy 3:2 continued
There are some that are doing that who are not doing it as boasters, but most people do. In our society people strive for things. When young people get cars, they try and pick one that fits their image, and that's why they roll the window down and crank up the stereo so you can hear it three miles away. So, boasters are people who use material things to boast.
Proud, blasphemers, and the word blasphemy, first of all when it's towards God, it is anything that is against God. But when it's towards people, it is the same word that is used for slander.
Sixthly, disobedient to parents. The word disobedience means a refusal to be persuaded. Now we know in Ephesians 6:1, it says children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. The word obey is HUPAKOUO which means put your hearing under.
That's what obedience is. Children are to put their hearing under their parents as the parents are leading and guiding them, especially in the things of the Lord. Well, in the last days children will be disobedient. They will refuse to be persuaded by the parents.
Seventhly, unthankful. In the Greek text, this is the word grace, CHARIS, with the alpha-privative in front of it. Thankfulness is actually a response to God's grace. That's what it means. Thankfulness does not originate with me thanking God. It's my response to the grace of God upon my life.
Unholy, that is, profaning the holy things of God.
Verse 3 gives us the ninth characteristic:
2 Timothy 3:2 - For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Number one, for men shall be lovers of their own selves. Secondly, covetous, which literally means lovers of money, PHILARGUROI. It is the same word that is found in 1 Timothy 6:10 where it says for the love of money is the root of all evil.
So, the first two have to do with love, lovers of their own selves, and lovers of money. The word love is PHILOS, which means to be fond of or to be friendly towards. It means to rearrange one's life to make these things a priority, first our own selves, and then money.
Thirdly, boasters. This word is found in 1 John 2:15-16. John says love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
Pride of life is the same word. And the pride of life is not of the Father, but is of the world. So, when it has to do with material things, it has to do with using one's material things to boast. In other words, I go out and buy two or three expensive cars, and I build a multimillion-dollar house up on a hill and try to get the best of everything. It's a status thing!
2 Timothy 2:17 - And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
The word canker (GAGGRAINA) is the Greek word for gang green. If you listen to enough people who are not teaching the truth, your soul will not be healthy. It will be diseased. Hymenaeus and Philetus were two people who began to teach something that was different than what Paul said.
2 Timothy 2:21 - If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
The word purge is the word cleanse, himself from these things, that is, these iniquities, he shall be a vessel for honor,
3 things: Having been sanctified (set apart). And meet (more literally useful), for the master. And thirdly, prepared unto every good work. Again, the word good is AGATHOS which has to do with spiritual good. The one who comes for cleansing and confessing his sins, will be a vessel of honor, set apart by God for His use, and prepared for every good work that God has for them.
2 Timothy 3:1 - This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
He says this know. That's a command. In the last days perilous times shall come. The word perilous is translated variously by the word danger or difficult, and the Greek word itself, CHALEPOS, means more than just difficult times.
The other place in which this word perilous is found is in Matthew 8:28. This is when Jesus came across the lake to the other side of the country of the Gergesenes. And there met Him two possessed with devils coming out of the tombs. These were two men who were demon possessed, exceeding fierce (CHALEPOS). It means to be fierce, or harsh. It describes the activity of demons. In the last days, it's not just going to be difficult times. It's going to be fierce. It's going to be harsh. He gives the reason starting in Verse 2, as he lists for us 18 characteristics of people in the last days.
Apostle Paul warns us of false witness.
Romans 13:9
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bearfalsewitness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Apostle Paul said that we will be calls false witnesses for God in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 15:15
Yea, and we are foundfalsewitnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not.
Apostle Paul warns us of false apostles.
2 Corinthians 11:13
For such arefalseapostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
Apostle Paul warns us of false Jews in the ministry.
2 Corinthians 11:26
In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils amongfalsebrethren;
Apostle Paul said that false Jews will spy and try to put us in bondage inwhich is the law.
Galatians 2:4
And that because offalsebrethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
Apostle Paul warns us of false science and vain babblings.
1 Timothy 6:20
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of sciencefalsely so called:
Apostle Paul warns us of false accusers.
2 Timothy 3:3
Without natural affection, trucebreakers,falseaccusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
( 1 Cor. 6:9-11)
This section of 3 verses pretty much sums up what culture is promoting these days. To be delivered from sin and live a new life doesn't mean we no longer sin but we are affected by the grieving of the Spirit when we turn our backs on God and don't live a lifestyle characterized in this manner again. The question as to whether we are dealing with a brother who is backslidden or someone deceived as to being saved at all means of course we have to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith; again that is another topic.
Romans 1:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Here we see what is sadly often the case; those calling themselves Christians in order to increase their own financial gain cowtow to those who are obviously in rebellion and themselves often are deceived while deceiving others ( 2 Timothy 3:13).
How sad that the opposite doesn't occur more; that those who do believe the truth invite the lame; blind; poor and other miserable wretches of society to eat with them and spend time with these individuals out of concern for their souls. It is much more likely among individual parishioners than pastoral leadership in most places today; for if their isn't financial incentive for many in leadership there are ego perks involved; whether in meetings with other Pastors or doing community service.
More in next part