2 Timothy 3 - Printer Friendly

Chapter 3 offers two mirror-image perspectives from Paul to Timothy. These are useful in and of themselves, but the contrast they represent is also useful. The first passage denounces apostasy and the signs of false teaching (2 Timothy 3:1–9), something Timothy is strongly warned against. The second section relates to ways to defeat or overcome apostasy and false teaching (2 Timothy 3:10–17). The primary means of defense against error is the God-inspired written word (2 Timothy 3:16).

In verses 1–9 Paul speaks of difficult times in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1). As used in this passage, Paul does not mean the "end times," or some period in the future. The "last days" as used here is what is commonly called "the church age," the era of Christianity in the world which continues through today. Paul particularly warns Timothy—the recipient of this letter—not to associate with the people he is describing.

After noting the characteristics of evil people, Timothy is told to avoid such people (2 Timothy 3:2–5). Those who act like this are deceived (2 Timothy 3:6–7). A comparison is then made between such evil people and Jannes and Jambres rebelling against Moses in the Old Testament (2 Timothy 3:8), concluding their sins will be clear to all just as in that case (2 Timothy 3:9). According to tradition, these two men were among the Egyptian magicians who competed against Moses during the Exodus (Exodus 7:11–12, 22; 8:7, 18).

In verses 10–17 Paul transitions first to his own life. He speaks of his godly actions (2 Timothy 3:10) and the persecutions he has faced during his ministry (2 Timothy 3:11), stating that every person who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). Evil people will continue (2 Timothy 3:13), but Timothy was to stand firm in the truth of God (2 Timothy 3:14–15). Paul concludes with a well-known passage on the inspiration of Scripture, declaring "all Scripture" as literally "God-breathed" and useful for many different means to equip God's people for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

The fact that Paul so clearly shows the opposite signs in his life, as compared to these false teachers, is evidence which supports his ministry. This is reason for Timothy to be secure in the instruction Paul has given him. Since Timothy has not only seen the life Paul has lived, but has even shared in some of his sufferings, he can be sure that what Paul says is sincere and trustworthy.

Second Timothy 3:1–9 is Paul's extensive list of godless traits, which will characterize false teachers and unbelievers. In verses 2 through 5, Paul will list nineteen separate qualities which are to be condemned. Among these are selfishness, arrogance, slander, hedonism, and denial of the truth of God. According to Paul, despite the apparent success of these false teachers, they will eventually be seen for what they are, and punished. Timothy, like other believers, should steer clear of such people.

Second Timothy 3:10–17 draws a strong contrast between the worldly, wicked behaviors of false teachers, and the conduct Timothy has seen from Paul. Not only has Timothy seen Paul's suffering for the sake of Christ first-hand, he has often experienced it alongside his friend, as well. This adds to the validity of Paul's teachings, which he strongly encourages Timothy to hold to. Above all, Timothy is to rely on the most secure, reliable, unchanging defense against error and false teaching: the ''God-breathed,'' inspired, written Scriptures.

Chapter 3 presents two sections with very different themes. In the first, Paul describes in detail the sins associated with apostasy: the abandonment of truth. Echoing the themes of prior chapters, Paul instructs Timothy to avoid not only these sins, but the people who participate in them. In the second section, Paul draws a contrast between these false teachers and his own example, as well as the faithful conduct of Timothy. Paul's capstone advice against false teaching and apostasy is the written word of God: the most powerful resource for any Christian leader.

In prior chapters, Paul has encouraged Timothy through an appeal to his lifelong spiritual heritage. He has also instructed Timothy to remain focused on the work of God, rather than pointless bickering. Here, Paul will present more warnings about the attitude of false teachers and those who reject God in favor of their own preferences. Just as he taught previously, Paul warns Timothy in no uncertain terms to avoid these behaviors and those who participate in them. This chapter is the high point of Paul's letter, leading to his final instructions to Timothy found in chapter 4.