In this sermon from 2 Timothy 3, Paul warns Timothy — and us — that the last days (the time between Christ’s resurrection and His return) will be marked by terrible times. People will be selfish, proud, greedy, abusive, unloving, unforgiving, out of control, and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. Many will have a form of godliness but deny its power — false teachers who worm their way into homes, prey on the vulnerable, and lead people astray.
These warnings describe not just the world around us, but even influences within the church: progressive theologians who use Christian language while denying Christ’s Lordship, self-fulfilment gospels, false ideologies dressed up as love and inclusion, and social media personalities who gain access to our hearts and homes.
Paul’s charge to Timothy (and to us) is clear:
1. Live out the gospel — letting it transform our character, purpose, faith, love, and endurance.
2. Expect persecution — everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will face it.
3. Hold firmly to the Scriptures — the God-breathed Word that teaches, rebukes, corrects, and trains us in righteousness, thoroughly equipping us for every good work.
The antidote to godless living and false teaching is simple: be a Bible people. Continue in what you have learned. Devour the Scriptures. Let them make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Don’t trust the preacher because of his position — test everything by God’s Word.
Will you stand for truth in these last days?
This is a timely and challenging call to resist cultural pressure, reject false gospels, and cling to the sufficient, powerful Word of God.