2 Timothy 3:1-9: In The Last Days

In our opening verse, Paul wrote But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty (3:1). What does Paul mean by the phrase in the last days? He is referring to the period of time that began with the coming of Christ and will continue until the day of Christ’s return. As Hebrews 1:1-2 reminds us, this is a period of time established by God for the fulfillment of his plan for his people.

A major distinctive of the last days is the presence of false teachers. At least 18 different characteristics are used by Paul to describe these people in the verses we are considering. Critical to Paul’s portrayal of them are the words having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power (3:5). Paul’s counsel to Timothy is to avoid such people. As a congregation committed to the truth of God’s Word, let’s examine these verses carefully, and apply these thoughts to the times in which we live.