2 Timothy 2:22 - 3:17
v6-7) Who were the "gullible women loaded down with sins"?
This phrase is also translated "silly, sin-burdened women" (TLB). Because of their cultural background, women in the Ephesian church had had no formal religious training. They enjoyed their new freedom to study Christian truths, but their eagerness to learn made them a target for false teachers. Paul warned Timothy to watch out for men who would take advantage of these women.
v8-9) Who were Jannes and Jambres?
According to tradition, Jannes and Jambres were two of the magicians who counterfeited Moses' miracles before Pharaoh (Exod. 7:11-12). Paul explained that just as Moses exposed and defeated them (Exod. 8:18-19), God would overthrow the false teachers who were plaguing the Ephesian church.
v11) How did Timothy know about Paul's troubles?
In Lystra, Timothy's hometown, Paul had been stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19); it is likely that Timothy witnessed this event. This was only one incident amony many. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-33 Paul summarized his lifetime of suffering for the sake of the gospel. Paul mentioned his suffering here to contrast his experience with that of the pleasure-seeking false teachers.
v16) What is the meaning of the phrase "All Scripture is God-breathed"?
This is a more literal translation of the Greek words that are often rendered "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God" (NKJV). The Bible is not a collection of stories, fables, myths, or merely human ideas about God. It is not a human book. Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed his person and plan to certain believers, who wrote down his message for his people (2 Peter 1:20-21). This process is known as inspiration. The writers wrote from their own personal, historical, and cultural contexts. Although they used their own minds, talents, language, and style, they wrote what God wanted them to write. Scripture is completely trustworthy because God was in control of its writing. The Bible is "God-breathed." Its words are entirely authoritative for our faith and lives.
(The One Year Bible Companion)
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v24) Clear here that we are not to quarrel and to be kind to EVERYONE!
v4) We talked a little about this in HC/sermon, that we should be known as lovers of God, and not lovers of pleasure or lovers of money.
v12) Here's another promise: that everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus WILL BE persecuted!
v16-17) Both today and yesterday talk about being prepared to do good works. So when we are leading holy lives and familiar with the Word, we are like gold instruments in His hand, useful to our Master.
A personal sharing from yours truly. :)
v12) I identify this with Rachel's testimony about suffering. Persecution is a form of suffering that often seems to happen to those in countries which oppress Christianity...but it can happen at home.
Of course my experience is not as harsh as those that are imprisoned, punished. But I can testify that it can be really difficult as a sole/minority Christian in the family. That said, be encouraged that you are in the fellowship of suffering and therefore rejoicing with Christ (v11-v13). Also, God does not desire for your family to be perished but to be saved (2.3:9)
Pray for your Christian friends today for much grace and the salvation of their families. Me included! :)
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