FBC Daily Devotions

THE TRAGIC TURN INWARD

Read 2 Timothy 3:2-5.

For these “last days” (v. 1), it is not natural disaster nor the Antichrist that is highlighted, but rather the utter loss of the civility of man as he spirals ever inward toward self-centered, self-absorbed behavior. The list of character qualities is discouraging:

This is one long list! Based on later verses, it is clear these qualities existed back in Paul’s day and would only get worse.  And if you believe “last days” (v. 1) means the time just prior to Christ’s return, then you can expect a significant and notable downturn in the character of man as His return draws near. Regardless, these qualities exist today, and they are the things Paul says will make Timothy’s work all the more difficult. What makes this most discouraging, though, is that these character qualities, in the context of this letter, seem to say they will exist within the church. The infiltration of self-centered philosophy and goals – and every bad product of these – will work against God’s purpose for the church.

Now we could examine the church for these flaws, and we would undoubtedly find some form of every one of these qualities in the church both universally and locally. And may I say as a pastor that dealing with the day to day struggles of sincere, godly people – people who may have a difference of opinion on matters of the church, people struggling with sin (who desire to get right with God), and people who face physical and emotional challenges – we want to come alongside and minister. But when a church body begins to assimilate these terrible qualities, the load on a pastor (and really everyone) can increase to the point of breaking. Struggling relationships make every decision, every action, and every word more difficult. Walking on eggshells comes to mind, but perhaps walking on broken glass is a better description. Thankfully, while we are flawed, we have not come to this at FBC.

Examining the church, however, is not the answer to the problem. The answer lies in each person examining his or her-self for these vices. A collective concern may be helpful, but in the end, each of us must be cautious of these in our own lives. The list is long, but even as I read through it, several areas jump out. The same may be true for you.

To consider: Looking at the list of vices, how are you doing? Which ones jump out at you? It would be easy to look at this list and become discouraged at your maturity (or lack thereof). But be encouraged! I would suggest that the closer your walk is with God, the more sensitive you will be to these vices in your life. The real tragedy is the failure to recognize any at all. Therefore, the issue is not whether one struggles in certain areas, but what one does about it. Looking at your struggles, ask yourself: Why do I struggle in this area? What will I do about it?

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Questions for Home Groups

1) Looking at the list of character qualities in this passage, most, if not all, are rooted in self-centeredness or selfishness. Discuss how we can be stronger lovers of God and people rather than lovers of self. (Consider, for example, are there times when you are more vulnerable to self-centeredness?)

2) While this is a long list, look at each one briefly and give examples of what these characteristics might look like in real life. (Consider breaking into cluster groups with each tackling a portion of the list, and then coming back together to share your thoughts.)

3) If your group feels comfortable enough, share a few areas where you struggle. What can be done to help you grow in these areas?

4) The verse ends with the statement, “pursue… along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” How can the group help one another in any of the problem areas discussed?