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Terrible times. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 The Living Bible Paraphrase. Modern Headlines. From a newspaper or newscast “ Oida ” – intellectual knowledge. “ Ginosko ” – knowledge as it affects us, “realize”.
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Terrible times 2 Timothy 3:1-5 The Living Bible Paraphrase
Modern Headlines • From a newspaper or newscast • “Oida” – intellectual knowledge. • “Ginosko” – knowledge as it affects us, “realize”. • The world around us does impact us. Paul wants Timothy, and us to realize this and be prepared.
The Persecution • It’s always been difficult to BE a Christian. • Because of temptations – James 1:14-15; I Cor. 10:13 • Because of testing – James 1:2-4; I Peter 1:6f. • Because of troubles – Heb. 11:25. • Be warned, but not scared.
The People • We sometimes take their standards for our own. • Selfish – lovers of self • Proud – grateful attitude is so important – I Cor. 4:4-7. James 4:6; Deut. 8:11-17 – “fullness” leads to pride. • Persecutors – sneering at God and believers. • Problems – Disobedient, disrespectful, “thoroughly bad.”
The Problem • Stubborn – hardhearted vs. meek, malleable. • Sinners – “constant liars, troublemakers. I Cor. 5:11; Romans 16:17; Titus 3:10 • Sensual – “think nothing of immorality.” • Satanic – “like Satan” – John 15:18-19
The Desires Rule • Betray friends – why? For a thrill! Matt. 24:10 • Hotheaded – puffed up. Will not admit sin, or a need for God – Rom. 3:23 • “Prefer Good times” to knowledge of God. Like in Noah’s time. Or Lot’s. • Romans 1:24-32
But They’re “Religious” • The religious lost – Matt. 7:21-23 • “keep away” 2 Cor. 6:17; Amos 3:3 • The answer to times like these – God’s Word • Psalm 119:9, 11; John 14:15; I John 3:2-3