Tara-Leigh Cobble

Paul says to beware of those who claim to believe but don't demonstrate that they have a relationship with Jesus.

In Ephesus, some of the people like this have started seeking out vulnerable women who don't have the best discernment.

These women were likely even paying the false teachers money to teach them their lies.

In verse 7, he says they're always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.

That sounds exhausting.

In verse 12, he tells Timothy and us what to expect when it comes to following Jesus.

He says, Paul goes on to say that Scripture is what will help us grow wise in the midst of trials.

It's what keeps us afloat.

In chapter 4, he gives Timothy some rich advice that could apply to all of us.

Because even though we may not be pastors, we're all ministers.

We're all teaching people who God is with our lives and our words.

He says to preach the word with patience.

Because according to verses 3 through 4, the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but have itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

Well, the time has come, Paul.

It's here.

You nailed it.

Paul knows his days are coming to an end.

His life is being poured out, he says.

And he looks forward to being crowned with the crown of righteousness alongside all God's other kids.

Before he dies, he wants Timothy to come visit him and Luke.