II Timothy 3:1-17
3:1-4 As Paul describes the future to Timothy, it seems like a stunningly accurate description of our present. First and foremost, there is good in the world and there is justice on the earth. However, recent global desires and unchecked material consumption has increased exponentially and has caused greed to be present as well. Greed, the mother of all all disparity in the world.
We have and are experiencing selfish and reckless behavior. Good works tirelessly to create customs and laws which protect basic human rights because it is no longer common sense that all people should have them.
Paul prophesies a future we do not have trouble envisioning because hypocrisy, pride, greed, deceit, selfishness, recklessness and selfishness unfold around us in every country (on large and small scales). Mass-market companies pillage the earth, humanity and environment without considering the consequences. People place value in outward appearances, material wealth, fame and power rather than in humility and servitude to kindness. Paul predicts what we are viewing and we should be aware of that, conscious of the condition of life right now in our time... not out of fear for "the end" because "the end" is nothing but another beginning but because it is our reality.
3:5 (Some) People are not utilizing their potential to be productively-purposeful. We must be able to recognize the condition of our world in order to navigate it properly (in order to navigate away from joining in with its mistakes).
3:6-7 We must be vigilant so that deceit never gains control over us. Paul predicts a future filled with people who, although they are experiences the lessons of life, are not discovering truth. People who are learning that anger and evil do not accomplish or even bring them joy but continue to repeat their actions without ever using that knowledge to discover truth.
3:8-9 People resist the truth: the truth that is this fundamental philosophy of life. Compassion. Rest assured, evil and folly will inevitably confront their stagnancy and regressive nature.
3:10-11 Timothy (and you now) has followed Paul's doctrine of life inspired by this faith: purpose, faith, love and perseverance through persecutions and afflictions. Timothy (and you) have seen how God has delivered Paul out of all suffering from the very beginning of their relationship. Timothy (and you) witnessed Paul and God's relationship because it represents the relationship you can have with Him too.
3:12 Of course anyone who opposes injustice will be confronted by it. When you stand for something you automatically sign yourself up for standing against that which threatens it. No problem for you, you and God become an undefeatable majority against any opposition.
3:13 Evil continues to destroy itself, continues to fester in its misery. Evil, because it is neglectful and rejecting of truth and compassion, will continue to do so.
3:14-15 Focus on your good work, your fellow-work with God: 1 Corinthians 3:9. Remember what you have learned from this compassionate philosophy of life, continue to learn within it, continue to be assured and confident of it... knowing, trusting and loving Creation, who established it.
Since childhood Timothy was committed to this faith. Paul implores Timothy to remember who he is and to remember the divine force and energy which motivated him, raised him, loved and guided him all his life. No matter when you began to develop spiritually, our God is with you in the same way. Keep Him as close to you as He keeps you to Him.
3:16-17 As is customary for Paul, there is complete gratitude and credit given to God for inspiring all good on the earth. Our spirituality edifies us, allows us to establish ourselves in truth and growth, in love and wisdom. We become honorable through it, through the good work that we do in its name.
