2 Timothy Background

Paul and Timothy were dealing with a well-known heresy (false teaching) known as gnosticism. Here are some of the characteristics of it as we discussed this weekend. Keep these in mind as we are studying 2 Timothy. You will see different places where Paul is addressing one of these.

1. Speculative Intellectualism – dealt in foolish and unlearned questions; a kind of intellectual filibuster – just meant to waste time – of no value to anyone, the kind of intellectual debate that is only for the purpose of argumentation and division

2. Pride – elitists and clicks emerged actually claiming that only they were exclusively in possession Christian blessing; created false levels of spirituality

3. Unhealthy Asceticism (denying self) – new special food laws, random lists of impure items, and for those already married they even recommended renouncing marriage and leaving their families

4. Immorality – some would break into homes and lead away weak and naïve women into evil desires (2 Timothy 3:6); money gain through false teaching – getting rich on the backs of susceptible early followers of Christ

5. Endless, godless chatter and speech

6. Jewish legalism – especially around circumcision

7. And Denied the resurrection of the body – believed “body or flesh or physical matter” was evil and only spirit was good

Hope this informs your study of 2 Timothy.

Rob