Living in Last Days

Paul continues to prepare Timothy for troubles and trials before he takes leave of this world. Paul appeals to Timothy to remain loyal to the gospel and vigilant against false teaching and ungodliness in the church and culture. Since chapter 2, we have already heard about the false teaching spreading like gangrene and how the devil seeks to ensnare people. In 3:1-9, Paul describes not just the danger of these days, but also specifically the problems to be faced. Yet Paul again returns to encourage Timothy that although we press through challenging times, God’s church, His precious people, will prevail. His point: do not be surprised at the trial, avoid the ungodly, and rest in God's promise to make the church firm to the end.