Checking the List
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5 ESV
These verses above are ones that I first memorized almost 50 years ago. As the adjectives in this list that provides the characterization of “last-days” attitudes, emotions and conduct, it is interesting to see how they have manifested themselves over the decades.
First I took note of the words “times of difficulty” the English Standard Version uses in its translation. Other translations and paraphrases uses words like, “perilous” “terrible” “violent” and “very hard” to name a few. The vivid description provides an indication that these attitudes just won’t be present, but they will present challenges in community and even church life as the coming of the Lord draws near.
These individual descriptors have always been traits that could be observed in generations over time. They can be observed in individual behavior, attitudes and conduct. However, what makes the “last days” so terrible and difficult to navigate is that these will characterize culture and the world as a whole. It is not so much that individuals here and there can be observed to be lovers or money, arrogant, boastful, proud, disobedient to parents, etc. It is the culture itself will characterized by these traits. They will be seen with greater frequency and intensity.
We are certainly seeing many of these traits in our current volatile political climate, but I am afraid that the “politics of the day” may be just unleashing what is rooted in the hearts of people.
My town hall experience with US Senator Cory Gardner was a prime example of this in a “condensed space.” The recent riots, demonstrations and hate-filled actions show it all too often on news reports and manifested in radio and TV talk shows. As we consider what the world is headed toward, one just needs to ask, “what would it be like if these types of circumstances and behaviors, along with others that are less obvious, become more predominate in our American culture and world?” It would make life very difficult if not perilous.
The response that Paul instructs is noteworthy. “Avoid such people.” That doesn’t preclude praying for others, but Paul reminds us, “bad company corrupts good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33) It doesn’t take long being around certain people that you get pulled down to their level. Their attitudes can cause on to lost heart.
Instead we need to remember Paul’s words and instructions to Timothy, “…evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed….you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:13-15 ESV)
After fifty years, I am still “checking this list” and holding it up against our present culture. I am finding that Paul’s words two thousand years ago are still relevant for today.
Prayer for today….. Lord help us to guard our hearts. Help us to keep our eyes on You and Your Word. Keep us from allowing discouragement to settle in as we are confronted with difficult and terrible days.