2 Timothy 3:1-9

Paul wanted to remind Timothy that he was living in the “last days.” In this passage, the last days simply point to the time following Jesus’ life here on earth; in other words, we are currently living in the last days before Christ will return in the clouds to remove all Christians from the earth to be with Him. Some refer to the time we are living in as the church age, which implies that the church is responsible to spread the message of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection for sin. Whatever we label it, we are living in the last days before God will pour out His wrath upon those who reject salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. An explanation is given to Timothy as to what he can expect in the last days. “In the last days perilous times will come: for men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (3:3-5). The implication is clear – these characteristics will become worse as time goes on and will define the lives of the people within the culture. This extensive list is frightening when you compare it to the world around us. What is even more alarming is that these character points are defining people who profess a relationship with Jesus Christ. Paul warns Timothy to stay away from anyone who manifests these characteristics because they have a tendency to be vulnerable to the deception of false teachers (3:6-9). Let us be completely aware of the dangerous times we live in and guard against allowing these attitudes.

Dear God, I know we are living in the last days so help me to obey You and guard against the sinful characteristics of the world. May I also keep myself away from the influence of those whose lives are filled with disobedience, rebellion, and sinful habits.