Paul warns Timothy he will meet things that are hard to cope with; the contrast between godliness and ungodliness is so great. The solution is not inner feelings or experiences, it is faith and practice of the Bible. He begins his description of the ungodly by saying they are 'lovers of themselves' - they are inward-looking and think relationships are disposable (the 'me generation'). Relationship is so important to God he redeemed us in order to restore it. The ungodly do not love God - no love for what he is like, no attachment, or desire to please him. They love money, a root of many evils; it fits in with their pride (that God hates). Pride leads to arrogance and abusive speech. It spoils relationships (for they do not value them). Disobedience, ingratitude, slander, and an unforgiving spirit show that. IT is the opposite to the life of Christ, who obeyed his Father and his human parents, and was true and gentle in his speech. The picture Paul gives is of evil out of control - no self-control leading to brutality, treachery, and conceit. This is the human tragedy. It does not have to be like this, for Christ saves sinners. By contrast, Paul's life was purposeful - to please Christ who had redeemed him. It was guided by the Word of God, and lived by faith in Christ, producing love and steadfastness. He reminds Timothy this will lead to persecution, but Christ rescues the persecuted - he will not be alone. The way to cope is to continue in faith in the Bible. This is more than a choice - it is conviction based on evidence. The Bible is God-breathed, his very words. Its benefits are more than comfort. It strengthens us and takes effect on our hearers. |
