The Apprentice

“You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (2Tim 3:10).

“You’re fired!” Ah yes, Donald Trump’s infamous catchphrase from “The Apprentice.” Forget voting people off the island “Survivor” style, the boss does the dirty work all by himself in the boardroom, sacking losing contestants each week. When it’s all over, the winner earns a job with Trump’s company and the alleged opportunity to personally study the business at the foot of the Donald.

(This is where I will leave it to each one of you to insert your own paragraph about the 44th President of the United States. You’re welcome.)

A couple of thousand years before Trump made Omarosa famous, the Apostle Paul wrote about what a real apprentice looks like. He tells his spiritual son Timothy, “You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (v10). Instead of trying to coin a catchy tagline and score high ratings, Paul looks to make disciples who make disciples.

He’s not firing apprentice wannabes but firing up his own spiritual apprentice. The apostle encourages Tim by telling the young pastor he’s legit when it comes to ministry. He’s learned the right things but more importantly lived and loved the right way. Tim’s passion for telling people about Jesus is the complete opposite of the religious con artists causing problems in Ephesus (2Tim 3:1-9).

Don’t think that Paul’s gotten cocky and believes he’s all that and a bag of chips. Sure, the man from Tarsus certainly has a ton of cred as a card-carrying, capital “A” Apostle. But an apostle is only as good as the one who sent him. In case you didn’t know, he’s following the resurrected Rabbi from Galilee, Christ Jesus. You may have heard of Him. Son of God. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. That’s the Savior Paul is following. And that’s the Savior he sees Tim following too. The apostle knows that good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

This is even more important when you consider the context of the Paul’s letter to his spiritual apprentice. As the apostle writes, he’s in the final countdown as a condemned man in a Roman slammer (2Tim 1:8, 17; 2:9; 4:6-7). He pleads with Tim to get his tail to Rome for one last visit before his date with the executioner (2Tim 4:9, 21). But he spends a good chunk of this epistle scribbling down critical instructions for ministry just in case they never see each other again (2Tim 2:1-4:5). These may well be the final words from the mentor to his student.

Paul begins verse 10 by drawing a clear distinction between Tim and the religious snake oil salesmen who’ve weaseled their way into the local church. “You, however” (v10). Could Timothy be any more different from the false teachers? Just check out the rap sheet of dudes like Hymenaeus and Philetus in 2 Timothy 2.

They may have started by teaching the Gospel but have gone off the rails long ago and now spread an aggressive cancer among God’s people (2Tim 2:17). They distract believers from following Jesus with all sorts of religious double talk (2Tim 2:14, 16, 23). They are self-absorbed and self-obsessed and some members of their posse have become dangerous sexual predators on the prowl for weak women (2Tim 3:1-8).

Maybe the young pastor has begun to doubt himself and question his qualifications. In his previous letter, the former Pharisee tells Tim not to let anybody use his youth to put him down (1Tim 4:12). He encourages him to “fan into flames the gift of God, which is in you” (2Tim 1:6) and stop giving into fear (2Tim 1:7). God’s Spirit lives inside every follower of Jesus (2Tim 1:14). Lean into the amazing grace of Jesus for His strength (2Tim 2:1).

Same goes for you if you’re a follower of Jesus. There should be no age discrimination when it comes to loving and leading others. God has personally given each believer at least one supernatural gift. It’s up to us stoke the fires of what He’s entrusted and share it with others. If we’re afraid, we need to remember that it wasn’t Jesus that gave us the jitters. He gave us the power to live and love with focus. God’s Spirit empowers every one of His followers. So let’s be generous and gracious with others since He’s be so generous and gracious to us.

An honest critique and strong encouragement are critical components of any apprentice relationship. Do you have someone in your life to honestly assess your strengths and weaknesses? Someone who will speak truth into your life? A mentor must also motivate when a protege has doubts. They cast a clear vision and know when a pep talk is appropriate.

Turn all that around. Are you doing that for someone else as well? Don’t give me that I’m-not-good-enough-to-be-someone’s-mentor stuff. We all are. Yes, you. I’ve got a sneaking suspicion that God has placed someone in your life who’s at least a little less spiritually mature than you are. Every Paul needs a Timothy. Every Timothy needs a Paul. In the end, it’s not about the quality of the apprentice or mentor but the Lord they are following.

Good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

Paul gives Tim the ultimate “attaboy” by telling him how he has “followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (v10). He uses a fascinating verb in the original language (Gr. παρακολοθεω/parakoloutheo). It’s a compound word that literally means to “follow (-ακολοθεω/-akoloutheo) alongside (παρα-/para-).” It paints a picture of accompanying faithfully, being ever present and attentive, and being close enough to carefully dig deep into the details about something or someone.

This kind of investigation isn’t done from a distance or a Google search. As the old saying goes, it’s up close and personal. For instance, Dr. Luke opens his report to Theophilus about how he’s thoroughly investigated the facts about Jesus for over a long period of time and “followed (Gr. παρακολοθεω/parakoloutheo) all things closely for some time past” (Lk 1:3). The good doctor hit the road to hear the truth about Christ from the people who knew Him best. He personally interviews the Lord’s closest friends and followers.

But there’s another important element to παρακολοθεω/parakoloutheo and it’s one very important step further than an simply an in-depth investigation. You carefully check things out in order to do them yourself. You follow every step so that you can take those same steps yourself. In his prequel to this letter, Paul encourages Tim for “the good doctrine that you have followed (Gr. παρακολοθεω/parakoloutheo)” (1Tim 4:6). The young pastor gives us a classic example of how to mirror your mentor.

Good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

The word in the original Greek is so wonderfully rich that the various Bible translations use a variety of terms to help us wrap our heads around it.
“followed” (NASB, HCSB, NET)
“followed after” (YLT)
“carefully followed” (NKJV)
“diligently followed [my example] (AMP)
“fully known” (KJV)
“intimately known” (Weymouth)
“know all about” (NIV)
“know” (NLT)
“thoroughly acquainted with” (Darby)
“observed” (NRS)
“took as your example” (BBE)
“gone after” (ABPE)
But my favorite is actually from the paraphrase of The Message. “You’ve been a good apprentice to me” (v10 The Message). Did you see it? A good apprentice. But this kind of apprentice isn’t worried about getting fired or winning the grand prize on a reality show. This kind of apprentice is all about carefully following a humble mentor who’s following Jesus.

Good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

So just what behaviors and habits are now part of Tim’s life after hanging out with Paul? According to the apostle, here’s the list: “my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (v10). In other words, Timothy has modeled what the apostle has said, what he has done, his direction in life, his trust in Jesus, his long fuse, his love in action, as well as his grit. At this point, Tim probably walks and talks just like Paul. And that’s NOT a bad thing since Paul probably walks and talks a lot like Christ. Let me know if you’ve got a better suggestion.

Good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

“My teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (v10). Maybe you might think the man from Tarsus has gotten the big head when you read his repeated use of “my” in this list. My oh my, it’s just the opposite. The apostle is simply recognizing that Tim modeled his behavior by mimicking Paul. This isn’t some sort of biblical humble brag. Timothy learned how to follow Jesus from watching Paul follow Jesus.

Over the course of his ministry, Paul did what he could to set an example for others in following Jesus. He invites the Corinthians, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1Cor 11:1). The apostle tells his Philippian friends to “join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us” (Phil 3:17). In other words, if you’re not sure of what following Jesus looks like, cut-and-paste what Paul does until you can figure it out on your own.

Finding or being a mentor does NOT mean perfection. You DO realize there’s only one Jesus, right? Every believer should keep their eyes locked on the One who will be there from start to finish in our faith (Heb 12:2). Paul gives us a powerful example of what a realistic mentor looks like. Look past the apostolic title on his LinkedIn profile. This is a dude with a seriously checkered past. Remember the whole hunt-down-torture-and-kill-Jesus’-followers part? Paul pulls no punches when it comes to his rather sordid history (Acts 22:4-5; 26:9-11; Gal 1:13; Phil 3:6; 1Tim 1:13). It’s all on the table.

Follow Paul’s example. Readily admit your sins, your failings, your flaws, your faults, and your mistakes. Live transparently with those closest to you. Repent regularly. Remember, you’re NOT Jesus. You’re just trying to follow Him. When you do that with humility, you’re going to look over your shoulder and see others following you. If not, you’re not so much leading but simply on a long, lonely walk by yourself.

Good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

What sort of stuff is Tim focusing on as he follows Paul? According to the apostle, it’s “my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness” (v10). It all starts with what Paul said as a teacher. Christ is at the core of his curriculum. Every single thing Paul taught was about Jesus. Timothy not only studied at foot of the apostle but made our Savior the focus of his teaching as well.

The apostle’s apprentice didn’t just listen to what was said but keeps a keen eye on how life is to be lived, “my conduct” (v10). As my dear friend Ross Turner liked to say, “A talk talks and a walk talks, but a walk talks louder than a talk talks.” Say that three times fast! Words about Jesus are always important but we must back them up with our behavior.

Tim takes note of Paul’s “aim in life” (v10). This is a predetermined plan of action that you stick to even when the fecal matter hits the whirling device. Think of it as a publicly posted mission statement that tells everybody where you’re headed. It explains why you do what you do. A good mentor makes the “why” and the “where” of the “what” and “how” obvious.

The young pastor emulates the apostle’s “faith” (v10). Paul doesn’t place his confidence in his own religious resume. He tried that once before and despite being really good at it failed miserably. His best effort was nothing more than a big steaming pile compared to Christ (Phil 3:-11). Instead of a do-it-yourself salvation, we trust in the person and work of Jesus. He lived the perfect life we failed to live. He died the death for our sin we should have died. He rose to the glorious new life we don’t deserve.

Because of Paul’s deep faith in Christ, Tim sees the apostle’s “patience” (v10). You can literally translate the original Greek word here (Gr. μακροθυμια/makrothumia) as having a long fuse. You can take a lot of garbage and abuse before you lose your cool. Jesus certainly modeled it during His torture and crucifixion. It’s all part of God making us more and more like His Son (Rom 8:29). That’s why Paul lists it as part of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Gal 5:22-23).

Timothy puts into practice Paul’s incredible “love” (v10). Considering how the apostle squeezes this in between “patience” and “steadfastness,” he’s probably not talking about warm fuzzy feelings he has just for people who are nice to him. This is a practical demonstration of love-in-action for those who are hard to love. People who are messy. People who don’t like you. People who may have the middle digit locked and loaded. This is loving our enemies just like Jesus not only taught (Mt 5:44) but personally demonstrated (Rom 5:8).

The apostle’s spiritual son follows the example when it comes to “steadfastness” (v10). This is different word (Gr. ‘υπομονη/hupomone) and slightly different idea from “patience.” It’s hanging in there in hard times because of a strong hope. Call it an attitude of fortitude. As the great Vince Lombardi would say, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” Paul would probably add, “And KEEP going!” Once again, Jesus sets the standard. The writer of Hebrews uses a very similar word when describing how Christ “endured (Gr. ‘υπομονω/hupomeno) the cross” (Heb 12:2).

This is what a godly apprentice looks like. What do we do with all this? First of all, find a Paul, find a Timothy…shoot, find more than one of each!! Remember that people are watching whether you know it or not. Leaders lead by personal example whether they realize it or not. Following Jesus is not so much taught at caught.

What sort of example do you set for others? Are you aware of your influence on them? Do you have a solid self-awareness of your own strengths and weaknesses? Are you willing to be transparent about them? Do you have the kind of close relationships with others to invite them to follow you or ask to follow them?

Most importantly, how is YOUR relationship with Jesus? If someone is going to follow you, you need to be following Christ. Do you do what He tells you to do? Do you repent regularly? Remember, It’s NOT about you. It’s all about the One you follow. That’s what it means to be an apprentice.

Good followers follow good followers who follow Jesus.

Phonies Exposed

“Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men” (2Tim 3:8-9).

Man, we love us some magic. Allow me to conjure up a few examples. Harry Potter has made millions appear in J.K. Rowling’s bank account. David Blaine dazzles crowds with his patented Street Magic. There’s America’s favorite Mind Freak, Criss Angel. Penn and Teller remain one of the biggest acts in the history of Vegas. David Copperfield has not only made the Statue of Liberty disappear but, in one of the greatest illusions ever performed, dates Claudia Schiffer.

No matter the magician, we watch them closely. This time they won’t fool us. This time we’re gonna figure it out. Then…ABRACADABRA ALAKAZAM! They pull off yet one more spectacular piece of hocus locus and leave us scratching our heads. How in the world did they do THAT?!?!

But here’s the deal. These magicians are really just illusionists. They only appear to pull off the impossible. You do realize they really aren’t sawing a woman in half, don’t you? Remember the show “Breaking the Magician’s Code”? The star was some dude named the Masked Magician who spent an hour each week revealing the ugly truth behind some of the greatest tricks.

What in the world does this have to do with following Jesus? There are plenty of phonies out there conning believers with their spiritual sleight of hand. And it’s nothing new. Two thousand years ago, Paul wrote a letter to a young pastor warning him about folks who were the latest in a long line of religious hucksters.

The apostle compares them to a pair of ancient Egyptian wizards back in the day. “Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men” (v8-9). He reassures Tim that these posers won’t get away with their con in the end. God will expose them for the phonies they really are.

Paul is writing the last letter of his life. He’s on Death Row in a Roman prison (2Tim 1:8, 17; 2:9; 4:6-7). He fires off this final note with two important purposes. One, he begs Tim to drop everything and hurry to Rome for one final visit before it’s too late (2Tim 4:9, 21). Two, he scribbles down critical info for ministry after he’s gone (2Tim 2:1-5).

A critical part of his instructions are dealing a growing number of false teachers. Earlier we read how they have begun to weasel their way into the church like an aggressive cancer, even driving some folks to doubt their trust in Jesus (2Tim 2:1718). Their M.O. is to suck you into endless arguments and ridiculous controversies in order to distract people from the following Jesus (2Tim 2:12-16, 22-23).

These spiritual snake oil salesmen are nothing more than self-centered, self-obsessed, self-lovers to be avoided at all costs (2Tim 3:1-5). Paul pulls no punches when he describes them as pseudo-Christian creeps. They’re sexual predators on the prowl, looking for women who are desperate for male companionship (2Tim 3:6-7).

For those who are familiar with Moses and the amazing Israelite escape from Egypt, the apostle compares them to a pair pharaoh’s personal wizards. “Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses” (v8). You won’t find this demonic duo named anywhere in the original story in the Old Testament. They’re only described as the top “magicians” of Egypt skilled in the “secret arts” (Ex 7:11, 22; 8:7, 18-19; 9:11). This is yet another example where the Holy Spirit inspires to writers of the NT to pull back the curtain on what we read in the OT.

But the writer of Exodus uses a Hebrew term translated as “magicians (Heb. chartom)” that paints these men as much more than as master illusionists who dazzle their friends at dinner parties. These are sorcerers deep into the dark corners of the occult. In case you didn’t know, the people of God are supposed to steer clear of stuff like witchcraft, soothsayers, sorcery, and seances (Dt 18:9-12). In other words, toss that Ouija board in the trash and flip open your Bible ASAP.

Flipping back to 2 Timothy, Paul says the phonies he and Tim are facing are the direct diabolical descendants of Jannes and Jambres. Just as Pharaoh’s sorcerers tried to stand up to Moses, “these men also oppose the truth” (v8). A couple of things to remember. First of all, it didn’t end well for the Egyptian wizards. Sure, they had a couple of cool things in the black magic bag of tricks. But after Aaron’s snake eats theirs (Ex 7:12) and they end up covered in boils (Ex 9:11), Jannes and Jambres tap out and are never heard from again.

Second, John MacArthur believes Paul’s comparison to pharaoh’s sorcerers indicates the first century false teachers were also dabbling in the occult. This is an important reminder that not everything supernatural is from God. Our enemy has the ability to mimic the miraculous. Jesus’ best buddy John encourages us to “not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God” (1Jn 4:1). We can know a spirit is legit when it makes Jesus famous (1Jn 4:2-3). Anything else is from the dark side, young Padawan.

Jannes and Jambres’ opposition to the Big Mo was incredibly similar to these dudes who “also oppose the truth” (v8). By using a Greek verb we translate as “opposed” (Gr. ανθιστημι/anthistemi) not once but twice here, Paul goes out of his way to point out the open and obvious rebellion. This is NOT simply agreeing to disagree. The original language paint a picture of of active and hostile resistance. 

A little later in this letter, the apostle warns Tim about a coppersmith named Alexander who “strongly opposed (Gr. ανθιστημι/anthistemi) our message” (2Tim 4:15). Paul writes to the Galatians about the time his buddy Peter stopped hanging out with non-Jewish believers. He has to get up in Pete’s grill and says “I opposed (Gr. ανθιστημι/anthistemi) him to his face” (Gal 2:11).

But probably the best example of supernatural opposition to the Gospel comes in Acts, Luke’s description of the incredible tsunami of grace across the Mediterranean rim. When Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark brought the message of Jesus to the island of Cyprus, that “Elymas the magician…opposed (Gr. ανθιστημι/anthistemi) them” and used every trick in the book to keep folks from hearing the Gospel (Acts 13:8). Just so you know, God blinded Cypriot sorcerer and people placed their trust in Jesus (Acts 13:11-12). Oh, you can resist. But when you make the mistake of resisting Almighty God, resistance, as they say, is ultimately futile.

Opposing the truth standing in the way of someone’s relationship with Jesus. Throughout his two letters to Timothy, that’s exactly how Paul talks about it. He describes how God “desires all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (1Tim 2:4). In his sequel, he says we must treat our enemies gently so that “God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth” (2Tim 2:25). And some of these very same sleazy false teachers search for fragile female victims so that they will “never be able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth” (2Tim 3:7).

The truth Paul’s describing is much more than a list of facts. He’s talking about Jesus, the One who is Truth with capital T. That’s how He describes Himself to His closest followers. “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (Jn 14:6). The resurrected Rabbi from Galilee isn’t inviting to memorize a long list of religious FAQs. You see, Truth is a Person inviting into a relationship.

So why do those ancient Egyptian sorcerers and these first century phonies use any means necessary to keep folks from know Jesus? Because they are “corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith” (v8). Paul uses a verb the ESV translates as “corrupted” (Gr. καταφθειρω/katathpheiro) that describes what’s going on between their ears as totally perverted. That certainly lines up with how he calls them creeps just up the page, doesn’t it?

If that’s not enough, they’re “disqualified (Gr. αδοκιμος/adokimos) from the faith” (v8). In doing so, the apostle tells Tim these spiritual con artists have failed the test and proven to be frauds. In NASCAR, drivers and teams that cheat are DQ’d and kicked out. In a note to another protege, the former Pharisee tells Titus to watch out for people who talk a good game about their relationship with Jesus but have absolutely zero evidence for it in their lives. “They are detestable, disobedient, unfit (Gr. αδοκιμος/adokimos) for any good work” (Titus 1:16).

There’s no magic spell or incantation necessary to be a qualified and bonafide follower of Jesus. It’s simply trusting in who He is and what He’s done that we could never do for ourselves. The sinless Son of God lived the perfect life that we’ve failed to live. He died the death for our sin that we should have died. He rose to new life that we in no way deserve. He trades His perfection for our rebellion (2Cor 5:21). As a result, we willingly submit ourselves to His loving leadership in order to enjoy the overflowing life of abundance He came to bring (Jn 10:10).

Just God exposed Jannes and Jambres for the phonies they were, Paul reassures us that these false teachers “will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was the of those two men” (v9). It’s like the scene in “The Wizard of Oz.” Dorothy and friends catch a glimpse of what’s really going on. When he’s exposed as a fraud, the not-so-great-and-powerful Oz desperately tries to divert their eyes, “Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain!” Too late. The jig is up. The con exposed. The folly plain.

God guarantees that con artists, counterfeits, and frauds won’t get away with it. He’ll reveal them for who they really are. They’ll get what’s coming to them. But don’t miss the big idea. He knows EVERYBODY for who they really are. You. Me. Them. Everybody. That’s the big idea behind one of King David’s hit songs (Ps 139). Jesus makes it plain that there will come a day when nothing is left secret and everything brought into the bright light of God’s truth (Lk 6:17).

Maybe you’re a fan of the Masked Magician and love finding out how illusionists pull off their tricks. But that’s nothing to what’s going to happen when God exposes religious phonies for who they really are. No magic wands. No secret potions. No incantations. Just the Light of the World revealing every single spiritual hoax while at the same time showing Himself to be Truth Incarnate. 

Pseudo-Christian Creeps

“For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning but never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth” (2Tim 3:6-7).

Some dudes just give you the willies. You know the ones. They try WAY too hard with the ladies and clearly up to no good. And these sleaze balls have a type. They’re constantly on the prowl for women who are weak and vulnerable. They’re really nothing more than self-absorbed sexual predators. Let’s call it like it is. They’re creeps.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking the natural habitat for the lowlife is limited to the singles bar. They’re not just lurking on Tinder. These dirtbags are anywhere and everywhere. I hate to say it but church is one of their favorite hunting grounds. If you’ve ever been to any singles ministry mixer, you know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!

Like the cockroach, the rat, and the shark, this species has been stalking the planet for thousands of years. For instance, did you know that Paul and Timothy had to deal with an infestation of creeps at the church in Ephesus? Yeah, you read that right. Creeps are literally in the Bible.

In his second letter to a young pastor named Timothy, the apostle spends a good bit of time addressing a team of false teachers and their impact on the Ephesian church. It’s obviously a VERY big deal. Why else would Paul take the time to address these slime balls in the last letter he will ever write?

You see, the man from Tarsus is walking the Green Mile. He’s on Death Row in Rome at the infamous Mamertine Prison. The apostle knows a date with the executioner is right around the corner (2Tim 4:6-7). He pleads with his protege to make one last visit before it’s too late (2Tim 4:9, 21). Paul spends the rest of this epistle passing the torch of spreading the Gospel to his spiritual son (2Tim 1:1-2; 2:1-4:5).

There’s no doubt that spiritual hucksters have weaseled their way into the Ephesian church. Their destructive message is spreading like an aggressive cancer (2Tim 2:16). Instead bringing people together, they tearing people apart (2Tim 2:14, 23). Instead of getting up in their grill, Paul tells Tim to treat them gently. You never know, “God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth” and snap out of it (2Tim 2:25-26).

If you think it’s bad now, just you wait. The apostle tips us off that things are going really go off the rails “in the last days” (2Tim 3:1). That’s when the false teachers and their followers become self-absorbed, self-centered, self-obsessed, self-worshipers (2Tim 3:2-5). Seen Instagram lately? Looks like we’re well on our way. Well, buckle your seat belts, boys and girls. Things will soon spiral completely out of control.

Paul lets us know that a significant percentage of these snake oil salesmen have something else up their sleazy sleeves. “For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women” (v6). The ESV uses the phrase “those who creep” as the translation for the Greek verb ενδυνω (enduno). It means to enter on the sly with ulterior motives, worm your way into, or secretly slip in.

One ancient translation of this verse in the Syriac language actually uses the word “weasel” here. A commentator by the name of Bloomfield says Paul is comparing them to snakes. These infiltrators can slither through the smallest openings. If you’re starting to get the willies, you get the drift. The apostle pulls no punches when talking about these pervs. He calls them creeps.

Not buying it? Don’t believe one of the writers of the Bible would stoop to this kind of name-calling? Well, take one look at who these lowlifes are targeting. They’re hoping to “capture weak women” (v6). Creepy enough for you? Paul uses a verb here (Gr. αιχμαλωτιζω/aichmalotizo) that’s actually a military term describing the capture prisoners of war.

Check out its other uses in the NT. Jesus paints a bleak picture of how the last days will go down when many “will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive (Gr. αιχμαλωτιζω/aichmalotizo) among all nations” (Lk 21:24). Paul uses it to describe his own internal firefight and it’s “make me captive (Gr. αιχμαλωτιζω/aichmalotizo) to the law of sin that dwells in my members” (Rom 7:23). The apostle tells the Corinthians that the followers of Jesus must win the war over the voices in their heads and “take every though captive (Gr. αιχμαλωτιζω/aichmalotizo) to obey Christ” (2Cor 10:5).

Is Paul comparing these First Century creeps to those van-driving dirtbags who kidnap young women and hold them hostage for years in the basement? I’ll let you make that call. One way or the other, the apostle is not exactly describing a guy looking out for a lady’s best interest. These false teachers look to control and manipulate their victims. It’s really no more than low grade human trafficking.

These sexual predators set their sites on “weak women” (v6). The apostle once again doesn’t waste his time with P.C. language. He dusts off a word (Gr. γυναικαριον/gunaikarion) that’s not exactly a compliment. It paints a picture of a frivolous and foolish female who is morally immature. You might say a desperate housewife. This is a woman whose situation in life has left her prone to temptation. Desperate for a little attention. Easily flattered. Emotionally available.

How long has this stuff been going on? A long time. A VERY long time! Flip back to our first parents first days on the planet. That’s when Satan duped Eve into believing God was holding out on her and Adam (Gen 3:1-7). From what we’ve seen in 2 Timothy, it should come as no shock that our enemy showed up as a talking snake. The devil used a little scriptural slight of hand to fool Eve into chomping into the forbidden fruit and then handing it to her husband.

Ever since, pseudo-Christian creeps have been twisting Scripture so that their victims will be “burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth” (v6-7). They overwhelm these women with all sorts of teaching that sounds like it comes from the Bible but is really nothing more than spiritual bondage. Their counterfeit gospel entices people further from our Heavenly Father, not closer. They pile on condemnation instead of leading them under the waterfall of God’s grace.

A word to the women and then to the men. Ladies, could there be a stronger encouragement to deepen your walk with Jesus and have a fuller understanding of God’s Word? That’s the best way to protect yourself from these creeps. When we know the Gospel, we much less likely to fall for something phony. Don’t let anyone try to convince you that he has the secret formula for salvation.

Remember, Jesus lived the perfect life we failed to live. He died the death for our sin we should have died. He rose to the glorious new life we don’t deserve. We place our trust in what He’s done on our behalf. We trust in His leadership and lordship of our lives. We obey God’s commands as an act of gratitude for what He’s done, not in order to earn our way into heaven. It really is that simple.

Ladies, don’t look for any other savior. Don’t subtly substitute the need for a boyfriend or husband for the place reserved only for Jesus. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with those relationships…EXCEPT when they become the ultimate object of worship. Idolatry is a lot more than bowing down to some handcrafted statue. Anytime we take a good thing and make it a god thing, that’s a bad thing.

Gentlemen, now can I have your attention for just a moment? First of all, if you feel like Paul’s getting personal here, now is the time to repent and ask for the forgiveness that only comes through Christ. We’re to see the women who follow Jesus as our sisters, not targets. As their brothers, we look out for their best interest. That means protecting them from creeps and any other sexual predators who are on the prowl.

And now a specific word for the husbands. Paul is not just talking about the single ladies here in 2 Timothy. Our wives need us to be fully involved in our marriages. That means our day isn’t done when we walk in the door from work. Instead of plopping down on the couch and watching SportsCenter, we love and serve our wives. She gets our best.

Just a reminder. God not only expects us to treat her the same way Jesus treated His bride, the church (Eph 5:25-33). I’m to love her. Give myself for her. Wash her in God’s Word. That does NOT mean guilting and manipulating her into doing what you want and when you want. When we do that, we’re really no better than the pseudo-Christian creeps Paul writes about.

Election Analysis

“Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people” (v13-15).


One hundred percent of the precincts are in. States have been called. A winner has been called. There are just as many cheers as there are tears. For the next few days, political pundits try to make sense of what just happened.

But when it comes to real election analysis, forget the major networks. Don’t grab the remote and go to CNN or Fox. The best breakdown of what went down at the ballot box actually comes from a former commercial fisherman from the boondocks of Galilee 2,000 years ago.

Peter tells us to simply take a deep breath, remember Who is really in charge, and be good citizens. “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it ice to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people” (v13-15).

I can just hear Pete’s 21st Century critics now. Whoa, big fella! Back up the truck!! You clearly don’t have a handle on what’s at stake here. National security! Immigration! The economy! The Supreme Court! I appreciate the schmaltzy religious sentiment, but this will NEVER work in the real world!! EVER!!!

We all need just cool our jets and check out the historical context of just when, where, and to whom our man Pete is writing. Set the Flux Capacitor for AD 64. The location is northern half of what we know today as Turkey. The followers of Jesus were the objects of tremendous political and social prejudice and persecution. One of the reasons they are living in the areas of Pontus, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia is because they are religious refugees. 

You see this is about this same time that Nero would point his fiddling finger at innocent Christ followers for starting the huge fire that destroyed much of Rome. Yet both Pete and his buddy Paul tell their readers to be good citizens despite the ruthlessness of the Roman Empire.

A LOT of fellow believers are freaking out about various elected officials, both local and national. I can’t quite squint hard enough to see that our current political leaders are worse than dudes like Nero, Herod, and Pilate. Does our nation have its issues? You betcha. But how much better off would we be if Jesus’ followers spent more time being good citizens, loving our neighbors, and less time whining about the government. That includes me.

First and foremost, Pete tells us, “Be subject for the Lord’s sake” (v13). He gives us a command using the Greek word ‘υποτασσω (hupotasso). The term literally means to put one thing under another or arrange below. In this case, it means to willingly obey, be under authority, or put yourself into an attitude of submission.

The dude Jesus called Rocky is commanding us to submit. Uh oh. It’s the “S” word. And no, Sean Connery, I don’t mean “sword.” Pete drops this word six more times in this little letter. Workers must “be subject (Gr.‘υποτασσω/hupotasso) to your masters with all respect” (1Pet 2:18). That’s how he describes how wives are to respect their husbands (1Pet 3:1, 5). The apostle reminds us that even every single being is “in submission to (Gr.‘υποτασσω/hupotasso)” the resurrected Jesus (1Pet 3:22 NIV). The Rock makes sure the young bucks know their role and are “subject to (Gr.‘υποτασσω/hupotasso) the elders” (1Pet 5:5).

So I’m to “be subject” and willingly submit. Really? There’s gotta be a caveat. There must be a loophole. Surely Pete’s ONLY talking about leaders worthy of following. Right? RIGHT?!? Nope. We don’t submit because of the goodness of our leader but the Goodness of our Savior. We’re to be good citizens “for the Lord’s sake” (v13). In other words, my submission is actually an act of worship to Jesus.

As long as what I’m ordered to do does not cause me to sin, I’m to do what I’m told. This is all about submission to authority. When I obey anyone in authority over me with a willing heart, I’m expressing my love and gratitude to the One who saved me. This is the same principle Paul writes to the folks in Ephesus (Eph 5:22-6:9). It’s the same thing Paul teaches the Colossians (Col 3:17-4:1).

In many ways, the big idea is summed up in one simple phrase: “do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Col 3:17). Everything is to be done as an expression of worship and thanks to my Savior.  While I may be a citizen of heaven (Phil 3:20), God has placed me here in this time and place to shine His light and spread His salt.  One VERY important way of doing that is through my willing submission to authority the Lord has over me.

This speaks to the tension and relationship between Jesus as my Lord and my Savior.  Because He has rescued me, I obey Him as an act of gratitude. You may think you’ve simply bought the eternal fire insurance policy. But I’ve got news for you. It doesn’t really work like that. He’s our Savior AND Lord. When I place my trust in Who He is and what He has done, I also place my trust in the incredible goodness of His leadership. There’s no one more trustworthy and qualified than Christ. After all, He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1Tim 6:15; Rev 17:14; 19:16). If I trust Him to save me, I can trust Him to lead me.

Just to make sure we’re paying attention, Peter points out that believers are to be good followers “to every human institution whether it be to the emperor as supreme or the to the governors as sent by him” (v13-14). Not most. Not some. Not just the Fed. Not just the state. Not just your local officials. Every. Human. Institution. Remember, Pete’s writing in the historical context of that wing nut Nero and his brutal Roman Empire.

Republican. Democrat. Libertarian. Conservative. Liberal. It just doesn’t matter. Whether your candidate won or lost, it would appear “every human institution” (v13) covers whoever takes the oath of office. What in the wide world of sports would Pete say all this? He gets to the bottom line when he writes “for this is the will of God” (v15). Take a deep breath. We’re good here. God’s got this. Jesus approves this message.

How many of us are always searching for God’s will for our lives? What does He want me to do? Well, His will here seems crystal clear. God calls me to be a good citizen no matter who’s in office. Politics don’t matter. They don’t even have to be good governors.  What does matter is that I’m to be a good citizen.

Ultimately, He calls me to be a good follower of whoever is in authority. Boss. Department head. Vice president. President and CEO. Campus pastor. Senior pastor.  That’s because we’re all under authority. We’re under THE Authority. Jesus. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. 

This doesn’t mean that I’m to sin if my ruling authority commands it.  That’s where we step off. Pete knows all about that. He and the apostles made it clear to the religious police that’s where they draw the line. “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). In the meantime, one important way for me to express my worship to Jesus is by being a good citizen.  

What to do now? Step one: Turn off the TV. Step two: Pray for your leaders (2Tim 2:1-3). Yup. All of them. Step three: Read Psalm 146. (Hint: Focus on verses 3 and 4. “Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish.”) Step four: Love God by loving your neighbor (Mt 22:37).

Love Me Some Me

“For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people” (2Tim 3:2-5).

Self-centered. Self-absorbed. Self-promoting. Self-obsessed. Their Facebook feed is a never-ending series of selfies. Know somebody like that? Let’s face it. We ALL do.

Conversations with them always center on a single topic. What is it? Well, you get two guesses and the first two don’t count. If you’re lucky, your friendly neighborhood narcissist will eventually come up for air and ask you a question. But it’s usually something along the lines of, “Enough about me. What do YOU think about ME?” NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens wasn’t afraid to admit, “I love me some me!"

While you may think the world has never been more full of folks who are full of themselves like T.O., it’s really nothing new. Two thousand years ago before a Kardashian walked the planet, Paul warned a young pastor named Timothy this was going to happen. It’s all part of his last day’s forecast. There’s a 100% chance of danger (2Tim 3:1). The apostle then gives us a detailed scouting report of just exactly whom to dodge.

“For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people” (v2-5).

Stop. Read it again. Read it again SLOWLY. It’s way too easy to put the pedal to the metal about after the first few and fly to the end. Take your time. Pause after each comma. Let it sink in. Let it soak in. It’s okay. We’ll wait for you. Nobody’s going anywhere.

Reading the apostle’s list makes you uncomfortable, doesn’t it? Don’t you squirm just a little bit? Is it possible that something he said hits just a little close to home? Well, it does for me. More on that in a moment.

Paul didn’t have a clue about the selfie stick and the duck face (lucky him!), but certainly he saw where things were headed. Folks may look good on the outside. We put up a great front. We manage our image. Our social media feeds are more like our personally crafted highlight reel. Oops! Did I say “we” and “our”? But it’s just a thin veneer that barely covers the black hole of our ego sucking in anyone who gets to close. The apostle tells Tim to make a quick U-turn when meeting somebody like that before it’s too late.

Before we make a deep dive into this bottomless pit of self-absorption, let’s back up a bit for context. Paul is writing to Tim from behind bars (2Tim 1:16; 2:9). He’s been locked up in the joint before but this is different. This time he’s in his final days on Death Row (2Tim 4:6-7). The apostle hopes his buddy can get to Rome in time for one final visit (2Tim 4:9, 21). Just in case that doesn’t happen, he furiously scribbles down essential info for ministry in the last letter of his life (2Tim 2:1-4:5).

The apostle writes to a young man that he’s left as lead pastor at the church he himself planted a few years back in Ephesus (Acts 19; 1Tim 1:3). E City is a major crossroads of trade and culture on the west coast of what we know today as Turkey. We probably know more about this specific church than any other in the entire Bible. In addition to what we read in Acts and the two letters to Timothy, Paul writes his Ephesian friends an entire letter. He mentions this church to the folks in Corinth (1Cor 15:32; 16:8). Even the resurrected Jesus tells His best friend John to pass along His instructions to His people in Ephesus (Rev 1:11; 2:1-7).

This is all part of Paul’s repeated warnings about a team of spiritual hucksters who have weaseled their way into the church and their impact on the followers of Jesus. They’ve infiltrated the congregation and are tearing it apart inside out. He first sounded the alarm to the Ephesians in his letter to the church there and pointed them back to who our Savior is, what He has done, and who He says we are. The apostle continues waving the caution flag in his first letter to Pastor Tim (1Tim 1:3-11, 19-20 4:1-3, 7; 6:3-10, 20-21). This list is his latest in his long list of warnings.

There’s really no reason to drill down and dissect each of the disgusting qualities that Paul describes to Timothy, is there? You DO realize that, don’t you? These nasty traits pretty stinking obvious, aren’t they? I like what Alan Nute writes in the International Bible Commentary. This is “a list of vices which constitutes a frightful picture of a world which has turned its back upon God.” Instead of making a priority of God first, others second, me third, this list flips the script.

They love me some me.

Paul clearly makes the point that these folks have misplaced priorities when it comes to love. They’ve turned their love back on themselves. They’re “lovers of self, lovers of money” (v2). According Nute, these two are the mom and dad and who go on to raise an entire family of self-centered siblings. Man, talk about putting the funk into the ultimate dysfunctional family!

We see that they’ve earned a rep for what they DON’T love. They are “not loving good” (v3) and “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (v4). In other words, selfie-centered people don’t love good and don’t love God. They’re on a relentless hunt for whatever feels good. As personal pleasure seekers, they’ve elevated themselves to the place of worship reserved only for God. The irony is that no one in the universe is more dedicated to our joy than our Creator.

While they may be self-centered, self-absorbed, self-promoting, but there’s one quality of self they’re missing. These spiritual con artists and their customers are “without self-control” (v3). Their self-obsession is totally out of control. The original language uses a single word here (Gr. ακρατης/akrates). Let’s just say a couple of the translations render this as “incontinent” (KJV, YLT). I’m just gonna leave that right there.

They love me some me.

Self-absorbed folks continually pump themselves up. Paul calls them “proud, arrogant” (v2). The phrase translated “swollen with conceit” (v4) literally describes something filled with smoke. They’re full of hot air and blow a lot of smoke!

They use that in combination with tearing others down by being “abusive” (v2), “heartless…slanderous…brutal” (v3), “treacherous, reckless” (v4). The word “slanderous” speaks volumes. This is the Greek term διαβολος (diabolos). It paints the picture of an accuser or someone who is always tearing down others verbally. It’s should come as no surprise that this is the same word used for the Devil (Mt 4:1, 5, 8, 11). The word actually comes from a root word that describes throwing…as in throwing someone under the bus!

Most of us would take one look at this list and want nothing to do with anyone like this. There’s just one problem. They’re undercover. They’re incognito. Paul tips us off that they have “the appearance of godliness, but denying it’s power” (v5). The apostle wants us to know these are closer than you think. Chances are they are sitting right next to you in church or small group. They look good and godly from the outside.

From the outside, these folks appear to really get their worship on. You see, “godliness” (Gr. ευσεβια/eusebia) literally means “good (ευ-/eu-) worship (-σεβια/-sebia).” This may come as a shock to some of you, but worship isn’t just singing songs on Sunday. It’s a lot more than putting your hands in the air like you really do care.

Worship flows from a grateful heart and results in a lifestyle of grace. We worship well when we put into practice God’s truth. We worship well when we live what we say we believe. We worship well when we put others ahead of ourselves. We don’t just know God’s commands, we DO God’s commands! The big idea here? We may know all the words and sing louder than anybody without a mic, but that’s only the “appearance of godliness” (v5). We must be very careful that we haven’t made the deity in the morning mirror the REAL object of our praise.

They love me some me.

Oh, these snake oil salesmen put up a decent front but they actually have no real proof of God’s power in their lives. These people are “denying its power” (v5). A peak behind their hypocritical curtain shows there’s no real holiness, perseverance, or effectiveness when it comes to God’s kingdom.The Message knocks this out of the park when it says, “They’ll make a show of religion, but behind the scenes they’re animals” (v5 The Message).

At then end of this loathsome list, we come to the only command in it. “Avoid such people” (v5). It’s clear from the previous verses that Paul has high hopes for their repentance and restoration (2Tim 2:23-26). But he clearly knows desperate times call for desperate measures. He’s probably talking about kicking them to the curb and out of the congregation as a last resort.

The apostle drops a word here (Gr. αποτρεπω/apotrepo) that means to have nothing to do with or purposely avoid associating with someone. It literally means to turn yourself around. Put your whole self in, take your whole self out…and stay there! Does this mean the Hokey Pokey IS what it’s all about? When you find yourself around folks with a phony faith who refuse to change, give them your best spin move and get out of there. Turn before you get burned.

This is where things get hard. They may be people we love dearly. It can be hard to give someone a stiff arm after they’ve become close to you. I think the best way to understand the apostle’s command here is to limit their emotional access in your life. Be careful what you share. We don’t want to cut them off completely (unless they’re a threat to your safety or the ones you love).

I would suggest we treat them as unbelievers. Continue to love them. Continue to reach out to them. Continue to shower them with the grace of Jesus. The idea is repentance and restoration, not punishment and abandonment. Heartbreaking as it might be, God can use our strategic avoidance as a means to get someone’s attention. We need to be careful but we must keep in contact.

Mind if I ask you a question? Are people avoiding YOU? Could WE be the people Paul’s warning Tim about? Let’s face facts. If we’re not now, we used to be. This is EXACTLY the kind of folks we were before Jesus got His holy hands on us. That smacked me right in the throat when I read this list. Self-centered. Check. Self-absorbed. Check. Self-promoting. Check. Self-obsessed. Check.

I loved me some me.

There’s no doubt that I put up a good front back in the day. To be honest, there are times that I still do. But there’s one thing I couldn’t escape. God doesn’t see me the same way the world does. He sees my heart (1Sam 16:7). Better yet, He gives me a new heart (Ezek 36:26-27)! 

Like Terrell Owens, I may love me some me but get this. Jesus loves me more than that. A whole lot more. And He loves you and me too much to let us stay that way.

100% Chance of Danger

“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty” (2Tim 3:1).

The local TV meteorologist sometimes calls for severe weather. A radio traffic guy will warn you that the morning commute is going to be a nightmare. Financial gurus may predict an economic downturn or even a recession. And no telling what the digital doomsayers’ flavor-of-the-month is on the World Wide Interweb.

But that’s nothing compared to Paul’s projection in his second letter to Timothy. “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty” (v1). The apostle’s not just dropping a casual warning about storms, gridlock, or a bursting economic bubble. According to him, what’s headed our will make those look like a Caribbean cruise.

Don’t mistake Paul for some sort of biblical Chicken Little. He’s not one of those crazy street corner scaremongers. He takes no pleasure in telling Tim and everybody else reading this little letter that dark days are not only ahead but unavoidable. He issues a prophetic forecast that calls for a 100% chance of danger.

Let’s not forget the context of what we’re reading. The apostle is firing off this note to Pastor Tim in the final days of his life. He’s walking the Green Mile on Death Row deep inside Caesar’s Supermax (2Tim 1:15; 2:9; 4:6-7). He’s rapidly writing down his final instructions for the young preacher after he’s gone (2Tim 2:1-4:5) as well as hoping for one final visit (2Tim 4:9, 21). In light of that, Paul has no reason to sugarcoat the situation. Let’s cut to the chase. We need to be very clear about will eventually go down.

The writer of this letter clearly wants his protege’s full and undivided attention for what comes next. “But understand this” (v1). It’s his way of grabbing him by the shoulders and giving him a shake. This is important. VERY important. Don’t miss this. Hello, McFly! Paul uses the word “understand” (Gr. γινωσκω/ginosko) which describes an intimate knowledge through personal experience. That’s why it’s also a biblical euphemism for sexual intimacy (Mt 1:18, 25; Lk 1:34).

This verb paints a picture of such a deep and personal experience of something that you can be totally sure about it. Jesus told His followers, “You will know (Gr. γινωσκω/ginosko) the truth, and the truth will set you free” (Jn 8:32). Once we experience the reality of God’s truth, we’ll never be a prisoner to our own sin again. In a prayer to His Heavenly Dad, our Savior said this firsthand knowledge of God as the key to life with Him forever. “This is eternal life, that they know (Gr. γινωσκω/ginosko) You the only true God, and Jesus Christ Whom You have sent” (Jn 17:3).

Check out how the various translators of the NT handle the opening phrase of verse one.
“This know also” (KJV)
“But mark this” (NIV)
“But realize this” (NASB)
“But know this” (NKJV)
“But be certain of this” (BBE)
“You should also know this” (NLT)
“But understand this” (AMP)
“Don’t be naive” (The Message)
Each translation different but with all the same idea. Paul wants our full and undivided attention. We can be absolutely sure of this. Take it to the bank. It’s a stone cold, lead pipe lock. A true no doubter. You’ve heard of the Five Day Forecast. Well, the apostle is releasing his Last Days Forecast. And he says there’s no wiggle room in what’s to come. There’s 100% chance of danger.

So just exactly are these “last days” the writer is talking about? We don’t need to get into the weeds on Bible prophecy, bust out all sorts of crazy charts with blood moons, or play a rousing game of “Pin the Tail on the Antichrist.” Let’s just simplify things. Paul’s talking about the period of time after Jesus’ first appearance on Earth and the day He makes His spectacular encore.

In both the Old Testament, this is one of prophets’ favorite phrases in describing the thrilling conclusion of God’s grand story. Evil is punished (Jer 23:20). Heaven on earth returns. The good guys win.(Is 2:2: Jer 49:39; Ezek 38:16; Hos 3:5; Mic 4:1). Or rather, the Good Guy wins! You DO realize Jesus wins, don’t you? If not, go ahead and take a peak at the end of story. It’s okay. I promise.

Let’s move on to the NT. In Peter’s famous first sermon at Pentecost, he quotes Joel the prophet quoting God Himself. “And in the last days it shall be, God declares that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams” (Acts 2:16-17). Later in one of his own letters, Pete lets us know how “scoffers will come in the last days” and laugh at folks for following Jesus while the follow their own self-destructive lifestyles (2Pet 3:3).

James talks about how we can actually make investments in our spiritual 401k before his big Brother comes back. “You have laid up treasure in the last days” (James 5:3). The writer of Hebrews uses this phrase when describing all the different ways God has communicated with people throughout history. “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, Whom He appointed the heir of all things, through Whom also He created the world” (Heb 1:1-2).

“The last days” is a very important reminder that God’s story isn’t finished. The frat boys from “Animal House” were wrong. It’s not over until HE says it’s over! You can bet it’s going to get worse before it gets better. But the Author of the story has it all under control. Jesus is THE Hero of THE Story. He’s the Rescuer that God promised to send all throughout the OT. All the way back in the garden (Gen 3:15). To Abram (Gen 12:1-3). To his son Isaac (Gen 26:3). To his grandson Jacob (Gen 28:13-15). To Moses (Ex 24:7-8). To David (2Sam 7:9-16). Jesus Himself makes the incredible claim that the entire Hebrew Bible is all about Him (Lk 24:27; Jn 5:39, 46).

Jesus may have headed home to Heaven but God is still writing His incredible story. I know it sounds crazy but He’s inviting you and me to be a part of it! Now, don’t get me wrong. We’re NOT the Hero. He wrote that part specifically for His Son. But we get to play a part in the Greatest Story the universe will ever hear.

Meanwhile back in Paul’s second letter to Timothy, the apostle gets specific about what’s going down in these last days. “There will be times of difficulty” (v1). Not “may be.” Not “might be.” Not “there’s a chance of.” There’s absolutely no wiggle room here in what will happen. No need to consider any other possibilities. We’re talking about a 100% chance. There. Will. Be.

So we know it’s coming but just what exactly are these “times of difficulty” (v1) we need to get ready for? “Difficulty” doesn’t sound so bad. Maybe I’m just going to lose my car keys. Maybe the boss is going to need me to work a weekend or two. Maybe I’m going to seriously crave Chick-Fil-A on a Sunday. I mean, I can handle THAT kind of difficulty.

Oh, if that’s ONLY what Paul is talking about! Let’s just say I don’t think our good friends at the ESV did us any favors here. The original Greek word here is χαλεπος (chalepos). This is worse than simply being inconvenienced. A LOT worse! This term is talking about big trouble. It means something violent, fierce, perilous, dangerous, painful, severe, savage, miserable, or angry.

The choice of “difficulty” seems to soft sell it just a wee bit. It only shows up one other time in the Bible and that appearance seems to back this up. Matthew uses the same word uses to describe the savage and violent nature of two demon-possessed dudes who terrorized a local cemetery. This demonic duo was “so fierce (Gr. χαλεπος/chalepos) that no one could pass that way” (Mt 8:28).

So the apostle’s words to Timothy here remind me of that classic scene from “Rocky III.” Just before his rematch with Balboa, a TV reporter asks Clubber Lang (played by the one and only Mr. T!) for a prediction to the fight. Clubber turns his eyes straight into the camera and answers in a single word. “Pain.” Two thousand years before Sylvester Stallone started his never-ending franchise, Paul made a similar prediction. “In the last days there will come times of difficulty” (v1). He’s calling for a 100% chance of danger.

The man from Tarsus isn’t exactly going rogue with his forecast. God’s spokesmen have been talking about it for centuries. It’s mega-theme throughout all of Scripture. Things will go from bad to worse. From worse to awful. From awful to terrible. Paul says the very same thing just a little later in this letter (2Tim 3:13; 4:1). Now I don’t know if we’re looking at post-apocalyptic wasteland straight out of “Mad Max” or this is the apostle’s way of describing SkyNet going active in “Terminator.” But one thing is for sure, so buckle up, boys and girls.

Don’t let this prophetic prediction cause you to throw in the towel. As bad as the bad news is, the Good News is even better! Remember what Jesus told His boys just before His own betrayal and murder. “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (Jn 16:33). Christ didn’t promise His followers a life full of rainbows, unicorns, and an endless supply of Skittles. This world is full of trouble. Big trouble. But our Great Big God dwarfs any of the crap the world throws our way. 

Paul’s calling for 100% chance of danger. But the long-range forecast certainly makes up for it.