Untitled Sermon (16)

Psalm 37:1–40 KJV

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth. The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming. The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation. Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken. A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous. The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away. The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth. For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off. The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore. For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off. The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever. The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him. The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

Psalm 37:title–40 KJV

A Psalm of David. Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth. The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming. The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation. Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken. A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous. The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away. The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth. For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off. The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore. For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off. The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever. The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him. The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

Psalm 130:1–8 KJV

Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD. Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning. Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

steadfast endurance

2 Thessalonians 1:3–12 KJV

We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Revelation 14:12–13 KJV

Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

James 1:2–18 KJV

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

James 5:7–12 KJV

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.

Matthew 24:13 KJV

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Mark 13:13 KJV

And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Mark 13:12 KJV

Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.

Endurance in the Last Days, a Prophetic Call to Stand Firm

Inspired by a Derek Prince Sermon on Endurance.

#!^&&**(&$#@! = Tongues, Below = Interpretation of Tongues by Derek Prince.

“O, the Lord thy God goeth forth to war. The Lord has drawn the lines of battle. He has set up his encampments, He has established his artillery, He has prepared His engines of war and the Lord is going to fight the battle for His people. Stand still and see the salvation of God amongst you for the Lord will watch over you and stretch His wings of protection and mercy, provision and blessing over you. And He will guide you and direct you. He will guide you and direct you, He will be with you in the night; He will be with you in the dark and lonely hour. He will not suffer your foot to be dashed against the stone. He will uphold you with the angels of His presence and He will show His might and His glory, His wisdom and His power in the people whom He has chosen. For He has determined to manifest Himself to all the earth.”

This was an inspired Rama “Right Now” Word for us today. These are the days we are living in now.

“O, the Lord thy God goeth forth to war.

Ps 37.1-40 KJV

The Lord has drawn the lines of battle.

He has set up his encampments, He has established his artillery.

He has prepared His engines of war

The Lord is going to fight the battle for His people.

Stand still and see the salvation of God amongst you.

For the Lord will watch over you and stretch His wings of protection and mercy, provision and blessing over you.

He will be with you in the night; He will be with you in the dark and lonely hour.

He will not suffer your foot to be dashed against the stone. He will uphold you with the angels of His presence.

And He will show His might and His glory, His wisdom and His power in the people whom He has chosen.

For He has determined to manifest Himself to all the earth.

Endurance. I suppose it’s not a very popular word. The King James, as you know, was translated well over three hundred years ago and the meaning of some English words have changed. Normally, the King James uses the word patience where today we would use endurance. And where we would talk about patience, the King James talks about longsuffering. Patience in modern English or longsuffering in King James English. The King James English is being able to put up with irritating people, situations, circumstances and not lose your temper and remain composed, and not fly off the handle, as they say. That’s patience in modern English, longsuffering in King James English. It’s a very valuable Christian virtue. But the verb that the King James uses is usually to endure. I’ll give you two texts by way of introduction to my subject. Matthew 24:13, I also want to read Mark 10.22.

Matt 24.13 KJV

13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

The Image from James 5.7-8 Represents this well.

Matt 10.22 KJV

13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Analysis

This verse also foreshadows the end times tribulation, where believers will face hatred from the world because they belong to Christ.

Key Themes

Persecution for Christ's Name

Jesus states that His followers will be hated by all nations because of His name. This aligns with what He says in John 15:18-19, where He reminds believers that the world hated Him first.

The phrase "for my name’s sake" means that the opposition is not due to personal faults but because they represent Christ.

Endurance to the End

The phrase "he that endureth to the end shall be saved" is significant.

It does not mean that salvation is earned through endurance, but rather that true faith is proven by perseverance.

This endurance is a sign of genuine believers who remain faithful despite suffering.

Salvation as a Future Hope

The word "saved" here refers not just to present spiritual salvation but also to final deliverance—either from physical danger or ultimately at Christ’s return.

Comparison with Other Translations

NLT (New Living Translation):

"And all nations will hate you because you are my followers. But everyone who endures to the end will be saved."

(This version emphasizes worldwide hatred and the necessity of perseverance.)

ESV (English Standard Version):

"and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved."

(Very close to the KJV, emphasizing endurance.)

Cross-References in the Bible

Matthew 24:9-13 – Jesus speaks about end-time persecution and that “he who endures to the end will be saved.”

John 16:33 – Jesus tells His disciples, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Revelation 2:10 – Jesus tells the persecuted church to be faithful unto death, and they will receive the crown of life.

Application for Today

Persecution is part of the Christian life. Even today, Christians in many parts of the world are persecuted for their faith.

Endurance is key. This verse encourages believers to stay faithful despite trials, knowing that ultimate salvation awaits.

Jesus is our strength. We cannot endure in our own power, but through the Holy Spirit, we can remain steadfast in faith.

Final Thoughts

Matthew 10:22 reminds us that following Christ comes with a cost, but the reward of eternal life makes endurance worthwhile. Are you facing opposition for your faith? This verse encourages you to hold firm because God is faithful to His promises.

Each of these chapters is a prophetic preview given by Jesus on the Mount of Olives, of the situation that would exist in the world immediately prior to His return. And many of the thing that He spoke about we see very definitely manifested in the world today.

Matt 24.12-14 KJV

12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

Focus on the one thing that Jesus said we were going to need to get through days like this. In Matthew 24:12 and following: And because iniquity shall abound (in modern English it’s lawlessness), the love of many shall wax cold. (KJV).

Because lawlessness shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. There is a direct connection between lawlessness and lovelessness. When people become lawless, they become loveless.

Matt 24.12 NLT

12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.

Analysis

That’s a powerful and timely message. Matthew 24:12 makes a direct connection between increasing lawlessness and the decline of love, particularly the love that should characterize God’s people. In a world where rebellion against God’s truth increases, the result is not just societal chaos but also a hardening of hearts.

Here are a few key thoughts to explore in this message:

1. The Meaning of Lawlessness (Ἀνομία - Anomia)

The Greek word anomia means more than just breaking human laws—it refers to a rejection of divine law, a rebellion against God's authority.

This lawlessness isn’t just crime and disorder; it’s a spiritual condition where people reject God's commands, leading to moral decay.

1. The Meaning of Lawlessness (Ἀνομία - Anomia)

The Greek word anomia is derived from a- (without) and nomos (law), meaning “without law” or “lawlessness.”

More than just breaking human laws, anomia refers to a rejection of divine law, a rebellion against God’s authority.

It represents a spiritual condition where people turn away from God's commands, leading to moral decay, self-centeredness, and a loss of true love.

Biblical Usage of Anomia

Matthew 7:23 – Jesus warns, “Depart from me, ye that work anomia” (lawlessness), addressing those who claim His name but reject His commands.

The Greek word ἀνομία (anomia) is often translated as lawlessness, meaning a rejection or disregard of God's law. In Matthew 7:23, Jesus delivers a stern warning:

Matthew 7:23 (KJV)

"And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

The phrase "ye that work iniquity" comes from the Greek "οἱ ἐργαζόμενοι τὴν ἀνομίαν" (hoi ergazomenoi tēn anomian), which literally means "those who practice lawlessness."

Context and Meaning

False Discipleship: Jesus is addressing people who call Him “Lord” but do not follow His will (Matthew 7:21).

Lawlessness (Anomia): These individuals claim to do mighty works in Jesus' name but live in disobedience to God's commands.

Rejection from Christ: Jesus declares He "never knew" them, meaning they had no genuine relationship with Him.

Theological Implications

Anomia (Lawlessness) as Rebellion: In a biblical sense, anomia is not just breaking laws but a heart posture of rebellion against God's authority.

Relation to Antichrist: The term is used in 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 8, where the "man of sin" (lawlessness) is revealed, showing that ultimate lawlessness is associated with the Antichrist.

Contrast with Obedience: Those truly known by Christ are not merely hearers but doers of His word (Matthew 7:24-27).

Application for Today

True discipleship means aligning our actions with God's commands.

Faith without obedience leads to rejection from Christ, despite religious claims.

Lawlessness is deceptive, as people may think they serve God while living contrary to His will.

1 John 3.4 KJV

4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

1 John 3.4 NLT

4 Everyone who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God.

1 John 3:4 – “Sin is anomia” (lawlessness), defining sin as living outside of God's order.

Key Takeaways:

Sin is more than just wrongdoing—it is a violation of God’s established law.

The word "anomia" highlights that sin is living outside of God's order—a rejection of His authority.

The context of 1 John 3 emphasizes the contrast between those who follow Christ and those who continue in sin, showing that true believers strive to live in alignment with God’s righteousness.

2 Thess 2.7-8 KJV

7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:

2 Thess 2.7-8 NLT

7 For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the one who is holding it back steps out of the way. 8 Then the man of lawlessness will be revealed, but the Lord Jesus will slay him with the breath of his mouth and destroy him by the splendor of his coming.

2 Thessalonians 2:7-8 – The "mystery of anomia" is already at work, linked to the Antichrist, showing that lawlessness is a spirit of rebellion against God.

Analysis

diving into a significant passage that touches on eschatology, the Antichrist, and the ultimate triumph of Christ. Here are some key reflections on 2 Thessalonians 2:7-8:

Key Themes and Analysis

The Mystery of Iniquity (KJV) / Lawlessness (NLT)

Paul speaks of a hidden force of rebellion that has been working "already" in his time. This "mystery" suggests a covert operation of evil that will eventually be fully exposed.

Analysis

2 Thessalonians 2:7, where Paul describes "the mystery of iniquity" (KJV) or "this lawlessness" (NLT) as already at work, though restrained until the appointed time.

Key Insights:

"Mystery" (μυστήριον, mystērion) in biblical terms refers to something previously hidden but now revealed through divine revelation.

"Iniquity" (ἀνομία, anomia) means lawlessness, rebellion against God’s order.

Paul indicates this force was already active in his time, operating behind the scenes.

The restrainer (likely the Holy Spirit, God's sovereignty, or a governing force) is holding it back until the appointed moment when the "man of sin" (Antichrist) is revealed.

The term "anomia" (ἄνομία) in Greek means "lawlessness," a complete rejection of divine law. It is not just sin but rebellion against God's order.

The One Who Holds It Back

There is a restraining force preventing this lawlessness from manifesting fully.

The "he" in verse 7 is debated. Some interpret this as the Holy Spirit working through the Church, while others see it as an angelic power or a political authority.

The Wicked (Antichrist) Revealed

The “man of lawlessness” (v.8) is often linked to the Antichrist (1 John 2:18) and the beast in Revelation 13.

This figure will embody ultimate rebellion against God and deceive many.

Analysis

The Antichrist figure represents ultimate rebellion against God, a leader who will deceive many and embody lawlessness. This image would depict a dark and ominous figure, symbolizing rebellion, deception, and chaos. The setting might be apocalyptic, filled with swirling clouds, chaos, and shadows, perhaps with hints of fiery light or demonic creatures lurking in the background to represent the deception and lawlessness of the Antichrist.

Christ's Victory

The Lord will consume the lawless one "with the spirit (breath) of his mouth" (Isaiah 11:4, Revelation 19:15).

The "brightness of his coming" (Greek: epiphaneia = glorious appearance) will utterly destroy the Antichrist.

Takeaways

Lawlessness and rebellion against God are active even now, leading toward a climactic confrontation.

The restrainer (likely the Holy Spirit working in the Church) will be removed, allowing evil to reach its peak.

The Antichrist will not prevail—Christ will overthrow him with a word and His glorious return.

Consequences of Lawlessness

Leads to spiritual blindness (Romans 1:28).

Key Themes in Romans 1:28–32:

Rejection of God Leads to Moral Decay (v. 28):

When people deliberately turn away from God, He allows them to continue in their sin, leading to a depraved state where they lose discernment between right and wrong.

A List of Sinful Behaviors (vv. 29–31):

Paul provides a comprehensive list of sinful behaviors that characterize those who reject God.

This includes unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, greed, envy, murder, deceit, gossip, pride, and disobedience to parents.

These sins reflect a corruption of both personal character and social relationships.

The Awareness of God's Judgment (v. 32):

Those engaging in these sins are not ignorant of God's judgment; they know such behavior is condemned.

Worse yet, they not only continue in sin but also approve and encourage others who do the same.

Theological Reflections:

This passage emphasizes the progressive nature of sin—when God is rejected, moral corruption follows.

The phrase "God gave them over" appears multiple times in Romans 1 (vv. 24, 26, 28), showing that divine judgment can sometimes come in the form of allowing people to experience the full consequences of their choices.

The final verse (v. 32) is particularly striking because it reveals that some not only engage in sin but also take pleasure in seeing others do so, highlighting the collective nature of rebellion against God.

Results in societal corruption and moral collapse (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

2 Tim 3.1-5 KJV

1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

2 Tim 3.1-5 NLT

  The Dangers of the Last Days

You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!

Analysis

2 Timothy 3:1-5 paints a vivid picture of the moral and societal collapse that characterizes the last days. Paul warns Timothy that perilous times will come, marked by a deep corruption in human character and behavior. Let’s break down some key themes:

1. Selfishness and Materialism

“Lovers of their own selves, covetous” (KJV) / “People will love only themselves and their money” (NLT)

A culture of self-centeredness replaces selflessness, leading to greed and disregard for others.

Materialism dominates, making wealth and possessions the ultimate pursuit rather than God.

2. Pride and Arrogance

“Boasters, proud, blasphemers” (KJV) / “Boastful, proud, scoffing at God” (NLT)

People elevate themselves, rejecting humility and reverence for God.

This arrogance leads to mocking and ridiculing faith.

Pride and arrogance often go hand in hand with a rejection of humility and a lack of reverence for God. This reminds me of passages like Proverbs 16:18 ("Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall") and James 4:6 ("God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble").

This theme connects to biblical narratives—such as the fall of Lucifer, Pharaoh's resistance to God, or the Pharisees' arrogance in Jesus' time?

3. Disrespect for Authority and Ingratitude

“Disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy” (KJV) / “Disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful” (NLT)

A breakdown in the family unit and a lack of gratitude foster rebellion and moral decay.

Holiness is abandoned in favor of personal desires.

Analysis

Theme Analysis: Disrespect for Authority and Ingratitude

📖 Key Verse References:

2 Timothy 3:2 – "For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy." (KJV)

Exodus 20:12 – "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." (KJV)

Romans 1:21 – "Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened." (KJV)

🔹 Description:

A loss of respect for parental and spiritual authority weakens the family unit and leads to rebellion.

Ingratitude fuels moral decay, as people become self-centered, forsaking humility and holiness.

The pursuit of personal desires over godliness replaces reverence for God’s commandments.

🔹 Biblical Examples:

Absalom’s Rebellion (2 Samuel 15) – He defied his father David, leading to his downfall.

The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) – He disrespected his father but later repented.

Israel’s Complaints in the Wilderness (Numbers 11) – A lack of gratitude led to judgment.

🌿 Contrast with Biblical Holiness:

Gratitude leads to a righteous life (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Obedience brings blessings (Ephesians 6:1–3).

4. Breakdown of Love and Trust

“Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers” (KJV) / “Unloving, unforgiving; they will slander others” (NLT)

Genuine love is replaced with coldness, betrayal, and deception.

Relationships suffer due to lack of forgiveness and constant conflict.

Theme Analysis: Breakdown of Love and Trust

📖 Key Verse References:

2 Timothy 3:3 – "Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good." (KJV)

Matthew 24:12 – "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." (KJV)

Proverbs 10:12 – "Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins." (KJV)

🔹 Description:

Genuine love and trust are eroded, replaced by coldness, betrayal, and deception.

Unforgiveness festers, leading to broken relationships and an inability to reconcile.

Slander and false accusations destroy reputations, sowing discord instead of unity.

🔹 Biblical Examples:

Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:8) – Jealousy led to betrayal and murder.

Judas' Betrayal (Luke 22:47–48) – A trusted disciple turned against Jesus.

Delilah's Deception (Judges 16:18–21) – False love led to Samson’s downfall.

🌿 Contrast with Biblical Love & Forgiveness:

True love is patient and kind (1 Corinthians 13:4–7).

Forgiveness restores relationships (Ephesians 4:32).

5. Lack of Self-Control and Increase in Evil

“Incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good” (KJV) / “No self-control, cruel, and hate what is good” (NLT)

People act impulsively, giving in to every desire and temptation.

Cruelty and hostility toward righteousness become the norm.

Analysis

This description aligns with 2 Timothy 3:3, where Paul describes the characteristics of people in the last days. The Greek word ἀκρατεῖς (akrateis), translated as incontinent (KJV) or without self-control (NLT), refers to a lack of restraint, especially in moral and ethical behavior. This ties directly to an increase in sinful indulgence and impulsive actions, reflecting a society where personal discipline and virtue are discarded.

The word ἀνήμεροι (anēmeroi) means fierce or brutal, indicating a savage and ruthless nature, where cruelty becomes widespread. This suggests not only personal loss of self-control but also a broader societal descent into violence.

Additionally, ἀφιλάγαθοι (aphilagathoi) means despisers of those that are good, which signifies an active hatred toward righteousness and those who uphold it. This reflects a culture where moral decay is not just tolerated but celebrated, and godly individuals face persecution for their stance.

This passage warns of a world where people give in to every desire, leading to increased moral corruption and hostility toward godliness. It serves as a sobering reminder for believers to remain steadfast and counter the tide of wickedness with faith, self-control, and righteousness.

6. Betrayal and Recklessness

“Traitors, heady, highminded” (KJV) / “Betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride” (NLT)

Faithfulness and loyalty are abandoned.

Reckless behavior leads to destruction, and pride blinds people to truth.

Analysis 2 Tim 3.4 KJV

his phrase comes from 2 Timothy 3:4, where Paul continues describing the characteristics of people in the last days. Each term carries deep implications:

"Traitors" (προδόται, prodotai) – This word means betrayers or those who deliver others up. It refers to people who are disloyal, abandoning faithfulness for personal gain. This echoes Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus (Luke 22:4–6), highlighting a time when loyalty and trustworthiness will be rare.

"Heady" (προπετεῖς, propeteis) – This means reckless, rash, or headstrong. It describes those who act without thinking, rushing into decisions without wisdom or concern for consequences. This kind of impulsiveness often leads to destruction.

"Highminded" (τετυφωμένοι, tetyphōmenoi) – This word means puffed up with pride or blinded by arrogance. It refers to people who are so consumed by their own self-importance that they reject truth and wisdom. Their pride prevents them from recognizing their faults, leading them further away from God.

The Spiritual Implications:

Betrayal undermines relationships – Whether in friendships, marriages, or faith communities, betrayal breeds distrust and division.

Recklessness leads to destruction – Without wisdom and self-control, people make choices that harm themselves and others.

Pride blinds people to truth – Arrogance makes individuals resistant to correction, causing them to reject God's wisdom and follow their own misguided desires.

Application for Believers:

This passage serves as a warning to guard against these attitudes. It calls believers to remain faithful, exercise wisdom, and cultivate humility. In a world increasingly marked by betrayal, recklessness, and pride, followers of Christ are called to stand firm in truth, act with discernment, and walk humbly before God.

7. Pleasure-Seeking Over Godliness

“Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God” (KJV) / “Love pleasure rather than God” (NLT)

The pursuit of entertainment, sensuality, and worldly pleasures overshadows devotion to God.

People prioritize immediate gratification over eternal reward.

Analysis

This concept is directly tied to 2 Timothy 3:4, which warns about the characteristics of people in the last days—“lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God” (KJV). The emphasis is on a misplaced love: instead of seeking God first, people prioritize self-indulgence, entertainment, and earthly desires over spiritual devotion.

Key Themes & Insights:

The Contrast Between Temporary and Eternal

Pleasure is fleeting (Hebrews 11:25)—Moses chose “to suffer affliction with the people of God” rather than enjoy “the pleasures of sin for a season.”

True fulfillment comes from God, not worldly distractions (Psalm 16:11)—“In Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.”

Misplaced Priorities

Pleasure in itself isn’t sinful, but when it takes precedence over God’s will, it becomes idolatry (Philippians 3:19—“whose god is their belly”).

Jesus warns about being “choked” by the cares of this life (Luke 8:14)—pleasures, riches, and worries hinder spiritual growth.

The Danger of Immediate Gratification

The prodigal son sought pleasure but found himself in ruin (Luke 15:13-16).

Esau traded his birthright for a single meal (Hebrews 12:16)—a warning against sacrificing eternal rewards for temporary satisfaction.

Godly Alternatives to Worldly Pleasure

Delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4)—true joy comes from intimacy with God.

Seek first the kingdom (Matthew 6:33)—prioritize spiritual treasures over earthly indulgence.

Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16)—rather than fulfilling fleshly desires, believers are called to pursue righteousness and godliness.

8. False Religion and Hypocrisy

“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof” (KJV) / “Act religious, but reject the power that could make them godly” (NLT)

Outward religious appearances deceive, but true transformation by God’s power is absent.

Religion becomes superficial, lacking real faith and holiness.

The straight and narrow path is such a powerful biblical theme—aligning perfectly with Matthew 7:13-14, where Jesus speaks about the narrow way leading to life and the broad way leading to destruction.

This image really captures that critical choice we all face.

Paul’s Warning: Stay Away!

“From such turn away” (KJV) / “Stay away from people like that!” (NLT)

Paul advises believers to separate themselves from those who embody these traits.

This is not a call to isolation but to avoid being influenced by such corruption.

This passage is a stark warning about the state of humanity in the last days. It calls believers to recognize the signs of moral decay, hold fast to the truth, and live in genuine godliness. The question we must ask ourselves is: Do we see these traits increasing in our world today? And how can we stand firm in faith despite this moral collapse?

2. The Consequence: A Cold, Loveless Society

Jesus warns that in an atmosphere of lawlessness, "the love of many shall wax cold."

The word wax cold (ψυχθήσεται - psuchēsetai) implies a slow freezing, a gradual loss of warmth, like a fire that dies out.

When people reject God's order, their love for Him and for others diminishes.

This explains why societies that turn away from God's truth often experience deep divisions, selfishness, and hatred.

3. The Connection Between Lawlessness and Lovelessness

Love and law are linked. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). True love is expressed through obedience to God’s will.

When people reject divine law, they become self-centered, focused on personal pleasure rather than sacrificial love.

Paul describes this in 2 Timothy 3:1-5, listing the characteristics of the last days: lovers of themselves, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, unholy, without natural affection.

4. A Call to Endure and Keep Love Burning

The next verse, Matthew 24:13, gives a contrast: “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”

Despite the world growing colder, believers are called to keep their love alive by staying faithful to Christ.

Jesus calls His disciples to “abide in my love” (John 15:9-10), meaning we must stay connected to Him to prevent our hearts from growing cold.

5. A Response: Rekindling Love in a Lawless World

Stay rooted in God’s Word – Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.”

Be filled with the Holy Spirit – Romans 5:5 says, “The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost.”

Show radical love – In a world that is loveless, we are called to love even our enemies (Matthew 5:44), showing Christ’s heart.

Closing Thought

As darkness increases, the light of God’s love must shine brighter through His people. Just as the early church thrived in the midst of persecution by standing firm in faith and love, so must we. We must guard our hearts from the chilling effects of lawlessness and keep the fire of God’s love burning.

We often think of love as something free, spontaneous, that requires no laws and no discipline. That’s incorrect. Love and discipline go hand in hand. And when discipline and law break down, love grows cold. In the midst of this very somber picture: lawlessness abounding and love growing cold-and I would point out to you the word for love there is agape, which is essentially the love love of Christians. I don’t think it’s talking about the love of the world growing cold; the love of Christians growing cold. Then Jesus says: But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (KJV) You have to endure unto the end. The Greek says” “He that has endured unto the end, it is he who will be saved.” You’ve got to get to the end to be saved. And Mark 13:12, Jesus says: Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake (again, that’s a very somber picture. Treachery, disloyalty rampant even with family relationships. Christians being hated of all men. And then Jesus says): but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (KJV) What does that tell us.

Look up Endurance by Derek Prince one, of 4 or 5 to continue this one