“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times.” 2 Timothy 3:1

But you, Timothy, certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. 2 Timothy 3:10

a. Conduct.

“You know that from the day I set foot in the province of Asia until now 19 I have done the Lord’s work humbly and with many tears. Acts 20:18-19

b. Purpose in life

So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ. Colossians 1:28

c. Faith.

1. Patience.
2. Love.

The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. 1 Timothy 1:5

f. Endurance.

You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra—but the Lord rescued me from all of it. 2 Timothy 3:11

a. Jesus predicted Paul’s persecution

But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” Acts 9:15-16

b. Every serious follower of Christ will face pushback for their faith

Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. 1 Peter 4:12

But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves be deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13

But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. 2 Timothy 3:14

a. Timothy’s firm foundation.

You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15

b. Be discipled by the Word of God

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16

The Word of God is ...

• A sword that pierces (Ephesians 6:17)
• A mirror that reveals (James 1:23)
• A seed that reproduces (1 Peter 1:23)
• More precious than gold (Psalm 19:10)
• Milk that nourishes (1 Peter 2:2)
• Sweeter than honey (Psalm 119:103)
• A lamp that shines (Psalm 119:105)
• A fire that consumes (Jeremiah 23:29)
• A hammer that shatters (Jeremiah 23:29)

a. Teaches us what is true

b. Make us realize what is wrong in our lives

c. It corrects us when we are wrong

d. It teaches us to do what is right

God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:17

e. To be equipped and outfitted for effective ministry

• Believe what the Word says
• Remember key truths from scripture
• Allow scripture to expose sin
• For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all

creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable. Hebrews 4:12-13

• Pray about what you’ve read

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

• Align your life with what the Bible says

a. The doctrine of salvation