The spirit that destroys everything

2 Timothy 3:1

Paul begins this new section with a warning. This passage uses wording similar to Paul's words in 1 Timothy 1:9, which were also in connection with a list of sinful actions. First, Paul describes a time period known as "the last days." Biblically, the "last days" began with the start of the church (Acts 2:17). Peter also spoke of the "last days" in 2 Peter 3:3, as did James (James 5:3), and the author of Hebrews (Hebrews 1:2). The "last days," as used in the New Testament, are not necessarily a reference to some era of the distant future, but a time period that began with the dawning of the church age and continues today. Second, these last days will be difficult. False teachers in Ephesus—like many deceitful teachers today—claimed that faithfulness to God would lead to material blessings. In contrast, Paul clearly taught that godly living would be difficult. The following verses chronicle the sins of evil people found in Paul's time, issues still seen today. Context Summary 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.

Chapter Summary Paul introduces himself, then recaps Timothy's path to becoming a minister. He reminds Timothy of how his family brought him up in the faith, and then how Timothy served faithfully with Paul in the past. Paul then focuses on two primary ideas. First, that Timothy's background in the faith should give him the courage to stand fast against hard times. Second, that Timothy should use that courage to defend the truth of the gospel message. Paul will use these points and examples as the foundation for the rest of his letter.