Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
What does 2 Timothy 3:4 mean?
Even in gospel times there would be perilous times; on account of persecution from without, still more on account of corruptions within. Men love to gratify their own lusts, more than to please God and do their duty.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside 2 Timothy 3:1-5 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on 2 Timothy 3:4
It means any one who betrays - whether it be a friend or his country. Treason has been in all ages regarded as one of the worst crimes that man can commit. Heady - The same word in Acts 19:36 , is rendered rashly. It occurs only there and in this place in the New Testament. It properly means "falling forwards; prone, inclined, ready to do anything; then precipitate, headlong, rash." It is opposed to that which is deliberate and calm, and here means that men would be ready to do anything without deliberation, or concern for the consequences. They would engage in enterprises which would only disturb society, or prove their own ruin.
Key words
- heady
-
Heady; rash, daring, bold, and impudent, fit to say and do any thing, though ever so vile and wicked.
Context in 2 Timothy 3
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2 Timothy 3 belongs to the late movement of the book, especially the section often described as dangerous times and Scripture. Second Timothy is a final appeal to courage, endurance, sound teaching, and fidelity to Scripture under suffering. Read this chapter with the wider themes of endurance, scripture, and courage in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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