EGW Writings2 Timothy 3

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 7—The Flood

PP 102.2

Of the vast population of the earth before the Flood, only eight souls believed and obeyed God’s word through Noah. For a hundred and twenty years the preacher of righteousness warned the world of the coming destruction, but his message was rejected and despised. So it will be now. Before the Lawgiver shall come to punish the disobedient, transgressors are warned to repent, and return to their allegiance; but with the majority these warnings will be in vain. Says the apostle Peter, “There shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning.” 2 Peter 3:3, 4. Do we not hear these very words repeated, not merely by the openly ungodly, but by many who occupy the pulpits of our land? “There is no cause for alarm,” they cry. “Before Christ shall come, all the world is to be converted, and righteousness is to reign for a thousand years. Peace, peace! all things continue as they were from the beginning. Let none be disturbed by the exciting message of these alarmists.” But this doctrine of the millennium does not harmonize with the teachings of Christ and His apostles. Jesus asked the significant question, “When the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8. And, as we have seen, He declares that the state of the world will be as in the days of Noah. Paul warns us that we may look for wickedness to increase as the end draws near: “The Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” 1 Timothy 4:1. The apostle says that “in the last days perilous times shall come.” 2 Timothy 3:1. And he gives a startling list of sins that will be found among those who have a form of godliness.

From Eternity Past

Similar Conditions Today

EP 59.2

Jesus asked the significant question, “When the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8. “The Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” 1 Timothy 4:1. “In the last days perilous times shall come.” 2 Timothy 3:1.

Homeward Bound

Warnings to the Church, August 26

HB 263.1

In the last days perilous times will come.—2 Timothy 3:1.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 75, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, par. 16

Paul says: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.” “The Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” [2 Timothy 3:1; 1 Timothy 4:1.] God desires human beings to be so closely united with Him that He can use them to counterwork the evil that Satan is seeking to bring in. He desires to use you, my dear brother and sister, to promote good and counteract evil. He calls upon Sister Brunson to become His gospel medical missionary, His helping hand, working to uplift, to save, not to destroy. He calls upon her to keep her feet firmly planted on the platform of eternal truth.

Maranatha

The Counterfeit Revival, January 25

Mar 33.1

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, ... having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:1, 2, 5.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 29—“To Meet the Bridegroom”

COL 411.1

The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit’s working. They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up. This class are represented also by the stony-ground hearers. They receive the word with readiness, but they fail of assimilating its principles. Its influence is not abiding. The Spirit works upon man’s heart, according to his desire and consent implanting in him a new nature; but the class represented by the foolish virgins have been content with a superficial work. They do not know God. They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live. Their service to God degenerates into a form. “They come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as My people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.” Ezekiel 33:31. The apostle Paul points out that this will be the special characteristic of those who live just before Christ’s second coming. He says, “In the last days perilous times shall come: for men shall be lovers of their own selves; ... lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable

GC88 443.4

It was apostasy that led the early church to seek the aid of the civil government, and this prepared the way for the development of the papacy,—the beast. Said Paul, There shall “come a falling away, ... and that man of sin be revealed.” [2 Thessalonians 2:3] So apostasy in the church will prepare the way for the image to the beast. And the Bible declares that before the coming of the Lord there will exist a state of religious declension similar to that in the first centuries. “In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5] “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] Satan will work “with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness.” And all that “received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” will be left to accept “strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” [2 Thessalonians 2:9-11.] When this state of ungodliness shall be reached, the same results will follow as in the first centuries.

Special Testimonies for Ministers and Workers—No. 7

“Arise, Shine; For Thy Light is Come”

SpTA07 60.1

Let not any hard reproaches be made against those who know not the truth. Even the churches are in darkness. Those to whom God has entrusted the treasures of his grace are to be made the living, responsible agents; but what is their position?—They have lamps,—a knowledge of the truth,—but how few have communicated the precious light God has given them; how few have borne fruit to the glory of God! They do not improve the light and privileges given. They do not “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” They have no fruit, and the condemnation of God is upon them. The Lord will not open the eyes that refuse to see. The moistening revives, the sunshine God has given to quicken into life, continues, but they remain fruitless. Shall those for whom the Lord has done so much, have the form of godliness, and stop there? 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

From Here to Forever

A Striking Contradiction

HF 274.6

The Bible declares: “In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5. “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” 1 Timothy 4:1.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 16, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 16, 1888, par. 44

We are living in these last days when lukewarmness and apostasy abound. The apostle saw in prophetic vision what should exist near the close of time, and if our hearts were not calloused by sin and iniquity, we should discern and sense the prophetic picture held up to our view. “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5. I cry out in remorse of soul, But who shall be able to stand when Christ shall come? “But who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appeareth? for He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.” Malachi 3:2, 3. Who shall stand the proving of God? Only those will bear the test who have washed their robes of character and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 45, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 45, 1891, par. 12

Paul writes, “This know also that in the last days perilous times shall come; for men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good. ... Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof, from such turn away.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 35, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 35, 1895, par. 10

Let not any hard reproaches be made against those who know not the truth. Even the churches are in darkness. Those to whom God has entrusted the treasures of His grace are to be made the living, responsible agents, but what is their position? They have lamps—a knowledge of the truth—but how few have communicated the precious light God has given them, how few have borne fruit to the glory of God. They do not improve the light and privileges given. They do not “Arise shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon them.” [Isaiah 60:1.] They have no fruit, and the condemnation of God is upon them. The Lord will not work a miracle to open the eyes that refuse to see. The moistening showers, the sunshine God has given to quicken into life, continues, but they remain fruitless. Shall those for whom the Lord has done so much, have the form of godliness, and stop there? [Read] 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 141a, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 141a, 1897, par. 24

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof, from such turn away.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 20, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 20, 1901, par. 28

“This know also that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof; from such turn away.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 116, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, par. 10

What are we doing to enlighten the world? The authority of God is scarcely recognized by the beings of His creation. The mystery of iniquity is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. John writes, “The whole world lieth in the evil one.” [1 John 5:19.] And Paul declares, “The Spirit saith expressly that in the later times some shall fall away from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, through the hypocrisy of men that speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron.” [1 Timothy 4:1, 2.] “Know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, not lovers of good, traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of good; holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof; from these turn away.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5.]

Conflict and Courage

Passing the Torch, December 7

CC 347.1

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:1, 2.

CC 347.2

In this his last letter to Timothy, Paul held up before the younger worker a high ideal, pointing out the duties devolving on him as a minister of Christ.... Paul bids him preach the word, not the sayings and customs of men; to be ready to witness for God whenever opportunity should present itself—before large congregations and private circles, by the way and at the fireside, to friends and to enemies, whether in safety or exposed to hardship and peril, reproach and loss.

CC 347.3

Fearing that Timothy’s mild, yielding disposition might lead him to shun an essential part of his work, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reproving sin and even to rebuke with sharpness those who were guilty of gross evils. Yet he was to do this “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” He was to reveal the patience and love of Christ....

CC 347.4

To hate and reprove sin, and at the same time to show pity and tenderness for the sinner, is a difficult attainment. The more earnest our own efforts to attain to holiness of heart and life, the more acute will be our perception of sin and the more decided our disapproval of any deviation from the right. We must guard against undue severity toward the wrongdoer, but we must also be careful not to lose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There is need of showing Christlike patience and love for the erring one, but there is also danger of showing so great toleration for his error that he will look upon himself as undeserving of reproof....

CC 347.5

With the growing contempt for God’s law there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring. What can be done to correct these alarming evils? The answer is found in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, “Preach the word.” In the Bible are found the only safe principles of action. It is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom.16Ibid., 501-506.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 32, 1912

25LtMs, Lt 32, 1912, par. 17

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5.] This class will be developed among us as a people as well as in the world. Great then is the need that we stand in that position where every jot of our powers may be used to magnify God and His truth.

The Three Angels’ Messages

“And his image”

3AM 86.3

The Bible declares that before the coming of the Lord there will exist a state of religious declension similar to that in the first centuries. [2 Timothy 3:1-5; 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11 quoted.] When this state of ungodliness shall be reached, the same results will follow as in the first centuries....

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1102—Sowing the Gospel Seed, and Reaping the Harvest; Selfishness, the Root Cause of Evil

14MR 147.3

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

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1533—Counsel to an Immoral Administrator in an Adventist Institution

21MR 167.4

We are living in these last days, when lukewarmness and apostasy abound. The apostle saw in prophetic vision what should exist near the close of time, and if our hearts were not calloused by sin and iniquity, we should discern and sense the prophetic picture held up to our view. [2 Timothy 3:1-5, quoted.] I cry out in remorse of soul, But who shall be able to stand when Christ shall come? [Malachi 3:2, 3, quoted.] Who shall stand the proving of God? Only those will bear the test, who have washed their robes of character and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 25—God’s Law Immutable

GC 444.1

The Bible declares that before the coming of the Lord there will exist a state of religious declension similar to that in the first centuries. “In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5. “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” 1 Timothy 4:1. Satan will work “with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness.” And all that “received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,” will be left to accept “strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11. When this state of ungodliness shall be reached, the same results will follow as in the first centuries.

The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters

December 26, 1906

PC 98.4

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; from such turn away; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof. Ever learning (ever presenting some new theory) but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7)

PC 98.6

“As Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth; men of corrupt minds; reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no farther; for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.” We have been given this example in Bible History to teach us that God will vindicate His word and fulfil His holy purpose. (2 Timothy 3:8, 9)

Christ in His Sanctuary

The Study of the Prophecies

CIHS 75.1

Taking the manner in which the prophecies had been fulfilled in the past as a criterion by which to judge of the fulfillment of those which were still future, he became satisfied that the popular view of the spiritual reign of Christ—a temporal millennium before the end of the world—was not sustained by the word of God. This doctrine, pointing to a thousand years of righteousness and peace before the personal coming of the Lord, put far off the terrors of the day of God. But, pleasing though it may be, it is contrary to the teachings of Christ and His apostles, who declared that the wheat and the tares are to grow together until the harvest, the end of the world; that “evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse;” that “in the last days perilous times shall come;” and that the kingdom of darkness shall continue until the advent of the Lord and shall be consumed with the spirit of His mouth and be destroyed with the brightness of His coming. Matthew 13:30, 38-41; 2 Timothy 3:13, 1; 2 Thessalonians 2:8.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 18—An American Reformer

GC 321.1

Taking the manner in which the prophecies had been fulfilled in the past as a criterion by which to judge of the fulfillment of those which were still future, he became satisfied that the popular view of the spiritual reign of Christ—a temporal millennium before the end of the world—was not sustained by the word of God. This doctrine, pointing to a thousand years of righteousness and peace before the personal coming of the Lord, put far off the terrors of the day of God. But, pleasing though it may be, it is contrary to the teachings of Christ and His apostles, who declared that the wheat and the tares are to grow together until the harvest, the end of the world; that “evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse;” that “in the last days perilous times shall come;” and that the kingdom of darkness shall continue until the advent of the Lord and shall be consumed with the spirit of His mouth and be destroyed with the brightness of His coming. Matthew 13:30, 38-41; 2 Timothy 3:13, 1; 2 Thessalonians 2:8.

GC 324.2

“As I was fully convinced,” says Miller, “that all Scripture given by inspiration of God is profitable (2 Timothy 3:16); that it came not at any time by the will of man, but was written as holy men were moved by the Holy Ghost (2 Peter 1:21), and was written ‘for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope’ (Romans 15:4), I could but regard the chronological portions of the Bible as being as much a portion of the word of God, and as much entitled to our serious consideration, as any other portion of the Scriptures. I therefore felt that in endeavoring to comprehend what God had in His mercy seen fit to reveal to us, I had no right to pass over the prophetic periods.”—Bliss, page 75.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 18—An American Reformer

GC88 321.1

Taking the manner in which the prophecies had been fulfilled in the past, as a criterion by which to judge of the fulfillment of those which were still future, he became satisfied that the popular view of the spiritual reign of Christ—a temporal millennium before the end of the world—was not sustained by the Word of God. This doctrine, pointing to a thousand years of righteousness and peace before the personal coming of the Lord, put far off the terrors of the day of God. But, pleasing though it may be, it is contrary to the teachings of Christ and his apostles, who declared that the wheat and the tares are to grow together until the harvest, the end of the world; [Matthew 13:30, 38-41.] that “evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse;” [2 Timothy 3:13, 1.] that “in the last days perilous times shall come;” [2 Timothy 3:13, 1.] and that the kingdom of darkness shall continue until the advent of the Lord, and shall be consumed with the spirit of his mouth, and be destroyed with the brightness of his coming. [2 Thessalonians 2:8.] The doctrine of the world’s conversion and the spiritual reign of Christ was not held by the apostolic church. It was not generally accepted by Christians until about the beginning of the eighteenth century. Like every other error, its results were evil. It taught men to look far in the future for the coming of the Lord, and prevented them from giving heed to the signs heralding his approach. It induced a feeling of confidence and security that was not well founded, and led many to neglect the preparation necessary in order to meet their Lord.

GC88 324.1

“As I was fully convinced,” says Miller, “that all Scripture given by inspiration of God is profitable; [2 Timothy 3:16.] that it came not at any time by the will of man, but was written as holy men were moved by the Holy Ghost, [2 Peter 1:21.] and was written ‘for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope, [Romans 15:4.] I could not but regard the chronological portions of the Bible as being as much entitled to our serious consideration as any other portion of the Scriptures. I felt therefore that in endeavoring to comprehend what God in his mercy had seen fit to reveal to us, I had no right to pass over the prophetic periods.”

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 49—Paul’s Last Letter

AA 498.1

From the judgment hall of Caesar, Paul returned to his cell, realizing that he had gained for himself only a brief respite. He knew that his enemies would not rest until they had compassed his death. But he knew also that for a time truth had triumphed. To have proclaimed a crucified and risen Saviour before the vast crowd who had listened to him, was in itself a victory. That day a work had begun which would grow and strengthen, and which Nero and all other enemies of Christ would seek in vain to hinder or destroy.

AA 498.2

Sitting day after day in his gloomy cell, knowing that at a word or a nod from Nero his life might be sacrificed, Paul thought of Timothy and determined to send for him. To Timothy had been committed the care of the church at Ephesus, and he had therefore been left behind when Paul made his last journey to Rome. Paul and Timothy were bound together by an affection unusually deep and strong. Since his conversion, Timothy had shared Paul’s labors and sufferings, and the friendship between the two had grown stronger, deeper, and more sacred, until all that a son could be to a loved and honored father, Timothy was to the aged, toilworn apostle. It is little wonder that in his loneliness and solitude, Paul longed to see him.

AA 499.1

Under the most favorable circumstances several months must pass before Timothy could reach Rome from Asia Minor. Paul knew that his life was uncertain, and he feared that Timothy might arrive too late to see him. He had important counsel and instruction for the young man, to whom so great responsibility had been entrusted; and while urging him to come without delay, he dictated the dying testimony that he might not be spared to utter. His soul filled with loving solicitude for his son in the gospel and for the church under his care, Paul sought to impress Timothy with the importance of fidelity to his sacred trust.

AA 499.2

Paul began his letter with the salutation: “To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day.”

AA 499.3

The apostle then urged upon Timothy the necessity of steadfastness in the faith. “I put thee in remembrance,” he wrote, “that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God.” Paul entreated Timothy to remember that he had been called “with a holy calling” to proclaim the power of Him who had “brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: whereunto,” he declared, “I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day.”

AA 500.1

Through his long term of service, Paul had never faltered in his allegiance to his Saviour. Wherever he was—whether before scowling Pharisees, or Roman authorities; before the furious mob at Lystra, or the convicted sinners in the Macedonian dungeon; whether reasoning with the panic-stricken sailors on the shipwrecked vessel, or standing alone before Nero to plead for his life—he had never been ashamed of the cause he was advocating. The one great purpose of his Christian life had been to serve Him whose name had once filled him with contempt; and from this purpose no opposition or persecution had been able to turn him aside. His faith, made strong by effort and pure by sacrifice, upheld and strengthened him.

AA 500.2

“Thou therefore, my son,” Paul continued, “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”

AA 501.1

The true minister of God will not shun hardship or responsibility. From the Source that never fails those who sincerely seek for divine power, he draws strength that enables him to meet and overcome temptation, and to perform the duties that God places upon him. The nature of the grace that he receives, enlarges his capacity to know God and His Son. His soul goes out in longing desire to do acceptable service for the Master. And as he advances in the Christian pathway he becomes “strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” This grace enables him to be a faithful witness of the things that he has heard. He does not despise or neglect the knowledge that he has received from God, but commits this knowledge to faithful men, who in their turn teach others.

AA 501.2

In this his last letter to Timothy, Paul held up before the younger worker a high ideal, pointing out the duties devolving on him as a minister of Christ. “Study to show thyself approved unto God,” the apostle wrote, “a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”

AA 502.1

The apostle warned Timothy against the false teachers who would seek to gain entrance into the church. “This know also,” he declared, “that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy; ... having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

AA 502.2

“Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse,” he continued, “deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation.... All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” God has provided abundant means for successful warfare against the evil that is in the world. The Bible is the armory where we may equip for the struggle. Our loins must be girt about with truth. Our breastplate must be righteousness. The shield of faith must be in our hand, the helmet of salvation on our brow; and with the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, we are to cut our way through the obstructions and entanglements of sin.

AA 502.3

Paul knew that there was before the church a time of great peril. He knew that faithful, earnest work would have to be done by those left in charge of the churches; and he wrote to Timothy, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”

AA 503.1

This solemn charge to one so zealous and faithful as was Timothy is a strong testimony to the importance and responsibility of the work of the gospel minister. Summoning Timothy before the bar of God, Paul bids him preach the word, not the sayings and customs of men; to be ready to witness for God whenever opportunity should present itself—before large congregations and private circles, by the way and at the fireside, to friends and to enemies, whether in safety or exposed to hardship and peril, reproach and loss.

AA 503.2

Fearing that Timothy’s mild, yielding disposition might lead him to shun an essential part of his work, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reproving sin and even to rebuke with sharpness those who were guilty of gross evils. Yet he was to do this “with all long-suffering and doctrine.” He was to reveal the patience and love of Christ, explaining and enforcing his reproofs by the truths of the word.

AA 503.3

To hate and reprove sin, and at the same time to show pity and tenderness for the sinner, is a difficult attainment. The more earnest our own efforts to attain to holiness of heart and life, the more acute will be our perception of sin and the more decided our disapproval of any deviation from the right. We must guard against undue severity toward the wrongdoer, but we must also be careful not to lose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There is need of showing Christlike patience and love for the erring one, but there is also danger of showing so great toleration for his error that he will look upon himself as undeserving of reproof, and will reject it as uncalled for and unjust.

AA 504.1

Ministers of the gospel sometimes do great harm by allowing their forbearance toward the erring to degenerate into toleration of sins and even participation in them. Thus they are led to excuse and palliate that which God condemns, and after a time they become so blinded as to commend the very ones whom God commands them to reprove. He who has blunted his spiritual perceptions by sinful leniency toward those whom God condemns, will erelong commit a greater sin by severity and harshness toward those whom God approves.

AA 504.2

By the pride of human wisdom, by contempt for the influence of the Holy Spirit, and by disrelish for the truths of God’s word, many who profess to be Christians, and who feel competent to teach others, will be led to turn away from the requirements of God. Paul declared to Timothy, “The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

AA 504.3

The apostle does not here refer to the openly irreligious, but to the professing Christians who make inclination their guide, and thus become enslaved by self. Such are willing to listen to those doctrines only that do not rebuke their sins or condemn their pleasure-loving course. They are offended by the plain words of the faithful servants of Christ and choose teachers who praise and flatter them. And among professing ministers there are those who preach the opinions of men instead of the word of God. Unfaithful to their trust, they lead astray those who look to them for spiritual guidance.

AA 505.1

In the precepts of His holy law, God has given a perfect rule of life; and He has declared that until the close of time this law, unchanged in a single jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim upon human beings. Christ came to magnify the law and make it honorable. He showed that it is based upon the broad foundation of love to God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God. In the Sermon on the Mount He showed how its requirements extend beyond the outward acts and take cognizance of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

AA 505.2

The law, obeyed, leads men to deny “ungodliness and worldly lusts,” and to “live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” Titus 2:12. But the enemy of all righteousness has taken the world captive and has led men and women to disobey the law. As Paul foresaw, multitudes have turned from the plain, searching truths of God’s word and have chosen teachers who present to them the fables they desire. Many among both ministers and people are trampling under their feet the commandments of God. Thus the Creator of the world is insulted, and Satan laughs in triumph at the success of his devices.

AA 506.1

With the growing contempt for God’s law there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring, What can be done to correct these alarming evils? The answer is found in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, “Preach the word.” In the Bible are found the only safe principles of action. It is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom. It opens to man’s understanding the great problems of life, and to all who heed its precepts it will prove an unerring guide, keeping them from wasting their lives in misdirected effort.

AA 506.2

God has made known His will, and it is folly for man to question that which has gone out of His lips. After Infinite Wisdom has spoken, there can be no doubtful questions for man to settle, no wavering possibilities for him to adjust. All that is required of him is a frank, earnest concurrence in the expressed will of God. Obedience is the highest dictate of reason as well as of conscience.

AA 506.3

Paul continued his charge: “Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” Paul was about to finish his course, and he desired Timothy to take his place, guarding the church from the fables and heresies by which the enemy, in various ways, would endeavor to lead them from the simplicity of the gospel. He admonished him to shun all temporal pursuits and entanglements that would prevent him from giving himself wholly to his work for God; to endure with cheerfulness the opposition, reproach, and persecution to which his faithfulness would expose him; to make full proof of his ministry by employing every means within his reach of doing good to those for whom Christ died.

AA 507.1

Paul’s life was an exemplification of the truths he taught, and herein lay his power. His heart was filled with a deep, abiding sense of his responsibility, and he labored in close communion with Him who is the fountain of justice, mercy, and truth. He clung to the cross of Christ as his only guarantee of success. The love of the Saviour was the undying motive that upheld him in his conflicts with self and in his struggles against evil as in the service of Christ he pressed forward against the unfriendliness of the world and the opposition of his enemies.

AA 507.2

What the church needs in these days of peril is an army of workers who, like Paul, have educated themselves for usefulness, who have a deep experience in the things of God, and who are filled with earnestness and zeal. Sanctified, self-sacrificing men are needed; men who will not shun trial and responsibility; men who are brave and true; men in whose hearts Christ is formed “the hope of glory,” and who with lips touched with holy fire will “preach the word.” For want of such workers the cause of God languishes, and fatal errors, like a deadly poison, taint the morals and blight the hopes of a large part of the human race.

AA 507.3

As the faithful, toilworn standard-bearers are offering up their lives for the truth’s sake, who will come forward to take their place? Will our young men accept the holy trust at the hands of their fathers? Are they preparing to fill the vacancies made by the death of the faithful? Will the apostle’s charge be heeded, the call to duty be heard, amidst the incitements to selfishness and ambition that allure the youth?

AA 508.1

Paul concluded his letter with personal messages to different ones and again repeated the urgent request that Timothy come to him soon, if possible before the winter. He spoke of his loneliness, caused by the desertion of some of his friends and the necessary absence of others; and lest Timothy should hesitate, fearing that the church at Ephesus might need his labors, Paul stated that he had already dispatched Tychicus to fill the vacancy.

AA 508.2

After speaking of the scene of his trial before Nero, the desertion of his brethren, and the sustaining grace of a covenant-keeping God, Paul closed his letter by commending his beloved Timothy to the guardianship of the Chief Shepherd, who, though the undershepherds might be stricken down, would still care for His flock.

Loma Linda Messages

E. G. White to J. A. Burden, Oct. 11, 1909 (B.-132-’09)

LLM 448.5

Let none think that they can pass safely through the perils of these last days, while puffed up with self-sufficiency. Some would unsettle minds by urging the carrying out of false plans. False theories are taught as truth, and I am charged to meet these errors decidedly. We should heed the instruction found in the third and fourth chapters of second Timothy, especially the solemn charge given by Paul to Timothy:

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 49—Paul Pours Out His Heart in His Last Letter

TT 262.1

From the judgment hall Paul returned to his cell, realizing that his enemies would not rest until they had compassed his death. But for a time truth had triumphed. To have proclaimed a crucified and risen Saviour before that vast crowd was in itself a victory. That day a work had begun which would grow and which Nero and all other enemies of Christ would seek in vain to destroy.

TT 262.2

Sitting day after day in his gloomy cell, knowing that at a word from Nero his life might be sacrificed, Paul thought of Timothy and determined to send for him. Timothy had been left at Ephesus when Paul made his last journey to Rome. Timothy had shared Paul’s labors and sufferings, and their friendship had grown deeper and more sacred until Timothy was to Paul all that a son could be to an honored father. In his loneliness, Paul longed to see him.

TT 262.3

Under the most favorable circumstances, several months must pass before Timothy could reach Rome from Asia Minor. Paul knew that his life was uncertain, and while urging him to come without delay, he dictated the testimony that he might not be spared to utter. His soul was filled with loving solicitude for his son in the gospel and for the church under his care.

TT 262.4

The apostle urged Timothy: “Rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self-control. Do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel in the power of God.” “Therefore I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am sure that He is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.”

TT 263.1

Through his long service Paul had never faltered in his allegiance to his Saviour. Before scowling Pharisees or Roman authorities, or the convicted sinners in the Macedonian dungeon, reasoning with panic-stricken sailors on the shipwrecked vessel, or standing alone before Nero—he had never been ashamed of the cause he was advocating. No opposition or persecution had been able to turn him aside.

TT 263.2

“You then, my son,” Paul continued, “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus... . Take your share of suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”

TT 263.3

The true minister of God will not shun hardship. From the Source that never fails, he draws strength to overcome temptation and to perform the duties God places upon him. His soul goes out in longing desire to do acceptable service. “The grace that is in Christ Jesus” enables him to be a faithful witness of the things he has heard. He commits this knowledge to faithful men, who in their turn teach others.

TT 263.4

In this letter Paul held up before the younger worker a high ideal: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” “Shun youthful passions and aim at righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with stupid, senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.” Be “an apt teacher, forbearing, correcting ... opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth.”

TT 264.1

The apostle warned Timothy against false teachers who would seek entrance into the church: “Understand this, that in the last days there will come times of stress. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, ... holding the form of religion but denying the power of it. Avoid such people.”

TT 264.2

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation... . All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” The Bible is the armory where we may equip for the struggle. The shield of faith must be in our hand; and with the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, we are to cut our way through the obstructions and entanglements of sin.

TT 264.3

Paul knew that faithful, earnest work would have to be done in the churches, and he wrote to Timothy: “Preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season, convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching.” Summoning Timothy before the bar of God, Paul bade him to be ready to witness for God before large congregations and private circles, by the way and at the fireside, to friends and to enemies, in safety or hardship and peril.

TT 264.4

Fearing that Timothy’s mild, yielding disposition might lead him to shun an essential part of his work, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reproving sin. Yet he was to do this “with all long-suffering and doctrine” (KJV), explaining his reproofs by the Word.

TT 264.5

To hate sin and at the same time show tenderness for the sinner, is difficult. We must guard against undue severity toward the wrongdoer, but we must not lose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. There is danger of showing so great toleration for error that the erring one will look on himself as undeserving of reproof.

TT 265.1

Ministers of the gospel sometimes allow their forbearance toward the erring to degenerate into toleration of sins, and even participation in them. They excuse that which God condemns, and after a time become so blinded as to commend the ones whom God commands them to reprove. He who has blunted his spiritual perceptions by sinful leniency toward those whom God condemns, will erelong commit a greater sin by severity and harshness toward those whom God approves.

TT 265.2

By the pride of human wisdom and by disrelish for the truths of God’s Word, many who feel competent to teach others will turn away from the requirements of God. “The time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own likings, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander into myths.”

TT 265.3

The apostle here refers to professing Christians who make inclination their guide, and thus become enslaved by self. Such are willing to listen only to doctrines that do not rebuke sin or condemn their pleasure-loving course. They choose teachers who flatter them. And among professing ministers there are those who preach the opinions of men instead of the Word of God.

TT 265.4

God has declared that until the close of time His holy law, unchanged in jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim on human beings. Christ came to show that it is based on the broad foundation of love to God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God.

TT 265.5

But the enemy of all righteousness has led men and women to disobey the law. As Paul foresaw, multitudes have chosen teachers who present fables. Many, both ministers and people, are trampling under their feet the commandments of God. The Creator is insulted, and Satan laughs in triumph at his success.

TT 266.1

With contempt for God’s law, there is an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents, and self-indulgence; and thoughtful minds everywhere are anxiously inquiring, What can be done to correct these evils? The answer is, “Preach the Word.” The Bible is a transcript of the will of God, an expression of divine wisdom. It will guide all who heed its precepts, keeping them from wasting their lives in misdirected effort.

TT 266.2

After Infinite Wisdom has spoken, there can be no doubtful questions for man to settle. All that is required is obedience.

TT 266.3

Paul was about to finish his course, and he desired Timothy to take his place, guarding the church from fables and heresies. He admonished him to shun all pursuits and entanglements that would prevent him from giving himself wholly to his work for God; to endure with cheerfulness the opposition, reproach, and persecution; to make full proof of his ministry.

TT 266.4

Paul clung to the cross as his only guarantee of success. The love of the Saviour was the motive that upheld him in his conflicts with self and in his struggles against the unfriendliness of the world and the opposition of his enemies.

TT 266.5

In these days of peril the church needs an army of workers who have educated themselves for usefulness and who have a deep experience in the things of God. Men are needed who will not shun trial and responsibility, who are brave and true, and who with lips touched with holy fire will “preach the Word.” For want of such workers, fatal errors, like deadly poison, taint the morals and blight the hopes of a large part of the human race.

TT 267.1

Will young men accept the holy trust? Will the apostle’s charge be heeded, the call to duty be heard, amidst the incitements to selfishness and ambition?

TT 267.2

Paul concluded his letter with the urgent request that Timothy come soon, if possible before winter. He spoke of his loneliness and stated that he had dispatched Tychicus to Ephesus. After speaking of his trial before Nero, the desertion of his brethren, and the sustaining grace of God, Paul closed by commending his beloved Timothy to the Chief Shepherd, who, though the undershepherds might be stricken down, would still care for His flock.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 3, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 3, 1882, par. 18

“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” 2 Timothy 2-5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 64, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 64, 1898, par. 17

These words are spoken to every minister in the Michigan Conference. Please read the third chapter of Second Timothy. Every word is applicable at this time to all our churches throughout the world. Had not our brethren in America better wake out of their lethargic slumbers? Had they not better trim their lamps with the grace of God, and let them shine forth in clear, bright rays to a world that is in darkness? There is a great work to do; there is a message to be borne in regard to the fitting up of a people to stand in the day of the Lord. God is the strongest being in the universe, and He demands of you to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 121, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 121, 1901, par. 15

I wish to speak plainly to you. You have entered upon a work which has no place in the work of a Christian physician, and which must find no place in our health institutions. Innocent though it may appear, this mind-cure, if exercised upon the patients, will in its development be for their destruction, not their restoration. The third chapter of second Timothy describes persons who accept error, such as one mind exercising complete control over another mind. God forbids any such thing. The mind-cure is one of Satan’s greatest sciences, and it is important that our physicians see clearly the real character of this science, for through it great temptations will come to them. This science must not be allowed a particle of standing-room in our sanitariums.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 147, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 147, 1904, par. 5

It is Sabbath day. I am this day seventy-seven years old. I have thinking to do and I have reason to thank the Lord that He has spared my life. I am pleased that the Lord has favored me with His encouraging grace. I have been sick for more than one week with influenza. Have kept my room much of the time. I have been repenting during this more than a week of suffering. My throat and lungs have oft been under congestion, my cough is hard and dry; expectorate but little. My labors have been quite taxing, and the Lord has greatly blessed me. During the night season we were in counsel. After we were planning what we should do, there was One who spoke with clearness and laid out the work that, while my life is spared, we shall secure a home for myself and workers, that W. C. White’s time and energies need not be divorced from the work being carried forward and upward. The special energies and capabilities are to be exercised to get out the books that are essential for this last time. We were to place ourselves in the very best possible position for health and for clear, bright spirituality. Faith and works are needed now in clear, distinct lines. While light is being given amid the moral darkness, we must gather every distinct ray of light that will substantiate the truth, bearing aloft the banner for these last days—the third angel’s message. The churches need to be set in order, the door of unbelief to be closed. The seducing power of Satan we are told will increase in such proportions that if it is possible he will deceive the very elect. Some are not making straight paths for their feet, and in consequence the weak will be turned out of the way. Let every soul take the warning. 2 Corinthians 1:6, 15-18; 11:14; Galatians 6:1-9; Ephesians 4:1-32; Ephesians 6:10-17; 2 Timothy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 149, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 149, 1907, par. 12

This warning is given for the days in which we are living. Read carefully the third chapter of Second Timothy. This chapter refers to the “many” spoken of by Isaiah who have departed from the faith. “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse,” the apostle says to Timothy, “deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [Verses 13-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 132, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 132, 1909, par. 10

Let none think that they can pass safely through the perils of these last days, while puffed up with self-sufficiency. Some would unsettle minds by urging the carrying out of false plans. False theories are taught as truth, and I am charged to meet these errors decidedly. We should heed the instruction found in the third and fourth chapters of Second Timothy, especially the solemn charge given by Paul to Timothy:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 62, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 62, 1911, par. 6

Mark the epistles of Paul, the apostle to the Thessalonians, and the epistles to Timothy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 400, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 400, 1906, par. 4

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; from such turn away; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof. ... Ever learning (ever presenting some new theory) but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5, 7.]

21LtMs, Lt 400, 1906, par. 6

“As Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth; men of corrupt minds; reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no farther; for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.” [Verses 8, 9.] We have been given this example in Bible History to teach us that God will vindicate His Word and fulfil His holy purpose.

21LtMs, Lt 400, 1906, par. 7

By way of contrast the apostle presents the opposite condition of morals that will exist among those who are faithful in their service for God. “Thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured.” Then for our encouragement he sounds the glad word, “Out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [Verses 10-17.] Read also Paul’s solemn charge to Timothy in the fourth chapter of Second Timothy.

The Review and Herald

September 19, 1854

RH September 19, 1854, par. 1

One of the signs of the “last days” is the disobedience of children to their parents. 2 Timothy 3:2. And do parents realize their responsibility? Many seem to lose sight of the watch-care they should ever have over their children, and suffer them to indulge in evil passions, and to disobey them. They take but little notice of them until their own feelings are raised, and then punish them in anger.

The Review and Herald

October 14, 1875

RH October 14, 1875, par. 1

One of the signs of the “last days” is the disobedience of children to their parents. 2 Timothy 3:2. And do parents realize their responsibility? Many seem to lose sight of the watch-care they should ever have over their children, and suffer them to indulge in evil passions, and to disobey them. They take but little notice of them until their own feelings are excited, and then punish them in anger.

The Review and Herald

March 28, 1893

RH March 28, 1893, par. 1

One of the signs of the “last days” is the disobedience of children to their parents. 2 Timothy 3:2. And do parents realize their responsibility? Many seem to lose sight of the watch care they should have over their children, and suffer them to indulge in evil passions, and to disobey them. They take but little notice of them until their own feelings are raised, and then punish them in anger.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 37, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, par. 3

God has given to man abundantly. He says, “I will lend you these goods of mine to trade upon: but I require you to return to me the tenth of all your increase.” Through Moses, directions had been given how the Lord’s talents of means should be appropriated; and again in Malachi this instruction is repeated. With all the blessings that the Lord bestows upon man, He tells him how they are to be used; and in obedience to His will there is safety and security. But when men set up their own ideas and plans, and do as God has forbidden with the talents He has entrusted to them, He counts them as “disobedient, unthankful, unholy.” [2 Timothy 3:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 90, 1911

25LtMs, Lt 90, 1911, par. 14

The apostle Paul, describing the children living in these last days, declares them to be “disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy.” [2 Timothy 3:2.] It is important that parents realize the tendency of the age and labor untiringly to educate their children away from those things, preparing them, by teaching them to love and copy the life of Christ, for a place in the future life of holiness.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 119, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, par. 1

Children have not been instructed as God has declared they should be. Blind affection had led many parents to walk contrary to the Word of God. Their spiritual eyesight has been blinded, and their children have grown up undisciplined and unrestrained, a care, a burden, and a reproach to those who should faithfully have trained them. Such children are described by the apostle Paul as being “disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of all that is good.” [2 Timothy 3:2, 3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 107, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 107, 1906, par. 15

San Francisco has been visited with a terrible calamity. The Lord in mercy has spared life, in order that the people may still have opportunity to repent. The wickedness practiced in San Francisco, and in Oakland as well, though in a lesser degree, has been opened before me again and again. No tongue can describe the conditions that existed before the earthquake; words are inadequate to portray the awful iniquity carried on. To an unusual extent, many were “lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers,” “heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:2, 4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 1, 1871

2LtMs, Lt 1, 1871, par. 15

Youth who have had their own way and chosen their own course and been allowed to say and do very much as they pleased, will never be happy in any place, neither will they be subordinate to any authority. They will not choose the society of associates which are persons of good sense and of good improvement of mind and manners from whom they can derive some intellectual advantage from their association. They will choose the company of those whose minds are cast in an inferior mold, and will really despise those youth who possess amiable traits of character, who are willing to be controlled and to be instructed. Those who are selfish and unlovable, headstrong, disrespectful, “and unthankful and unholy, truce breakers, fierce, despisers of those that are good, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God,” are signs which characterize the last days just previous to the pouring out of the vials of God’s wrath. [2 Timothy 3:2-4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 30, 1875

2LtMs, Lt 30, 1875, par. 3

We are, my dear child, living amid the perils of the last days. Satan is intent upon corrupting the minds of youth with thoughts and affections and sympathies that they think are real genuine love which must not be interfered with. This I was shown was your case. You little know how very anxious and how great burdens your parents have borne for you. You may think that you have been restrained too much but it is a mistake. I have been shown that your parents have been proud of their children and they have indulged you too much. They have not restrained you as thoroughly as was their duty. They have allowed you to do too much as you pleased. And you have not submitted to parental authority as was your duty. You have not honored your father and your mother as God requires of you. The sin which exists in this generation among children is disobedience to parents, unthankful, unholy, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:2-4.] And this state of things exists to such an extent it is made a subject of prophecy as one of the signs that we are living in the last days of time.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]

MR No. 1198—The Teacher Sent from God

16MR 89.3

False prophets are described by Paul in his letter to Timothy: “Men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof” [2 Timothy 3:2-5]. Paul warns his son in the gospel, saying, “This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck” [1 Timothy 1:18, 19].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 61, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 61, 1899, par. 3

False prophets are described by Paul in his letter to Timothy: “Men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof.” [2 Timothy 3:2-5.] Paul warns his son in the gospel, saying, “This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, That thou by them might war a good warfare, holding faith and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck.” [1 Timothy 1:18, 19.]

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 15—The Second Angel’s Message

4SP 239.1

The picture which the apostle Paul has drawn of the professed people of God in the last days is a sad but faithful delineation of the popular churches of our time. “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof,” “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God,” “lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud,” [2 Timothy 3:2-7.]—such are a few specifications from the dark catalogue which he has given. And in view of the frequent and startling revelations of crime, even among those that minister in holy things, who dare affirm that there is one sin enumerated by the apostle which is not concealed under a profession of Christianity?

Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]

MR No. 1204—The Church in the Home

16MR 143.1

Children have not been instructed as God has declared they should be. Blind affection has led many parents to walk contrary to the Word of God. Their spiritual eyesight has been blinded, and their children have grown up undisciplined and unrestrained, a care, a burden, and a reproach to those who should faithfully have trained them. Such children are described by the apostle Paul as being “disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce despisers of all that is good.” [See 2 Timothy 3:3 In A modern translation.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Words of Counsel

CT 281.1

It is in the order of God that the physical as well as the mental powers shall be trained; but the character of the physical exercise taken should be in complete harmony with the lessons given by Christ to His disciples. Those lessons should be exemplified in the lives of Christians so that in all the education and self-training of teachers and students the heavenly agencies may not record of them that they are “lovers of pleasures.” This is the record now being made of a large number, “Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” 2 Timothy 3:4. Thus Satan and his angels are laying their snares for souls. They are working upon the minds of teachers and students to induce them to engage in exercises and amusements which become intensely absorbing, and which are of a character to strengthen the lower passions and to create appetites and passions that will counteract the operations of the Spirit of God upon human hearts.

Messages to Young People

Chapter 126—Words of Counsel

MYP 371.1

It is in the order of God that the physical as well as the mental powers shall be trained; but the character of the physical exercise taken should be in complete harmony with the lessons given by Christ to His disciples. Those lessons should be exemplified in the lives of Christians, so that in all the education and self-training of teachers and students, the heavenly agencies may not record of them that they are “lovers of pleasures.” This is the record now being made of a large number, “Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” 2 Timothy 3:4.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 9—Our Duty to the World

8T 55.3

Shall the selfishness and the ease of those who have earthly comforts and attractive homes allure us? Shall we cease as moral agencies to use our powers to the saving of souls? Shall our voices be indistinct? Then God will put His curse upon us who have had so great light, and inscribe upon the walls of our homes: “Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” 2 Timothy 3:4. He will put a tongue in the stones, and they will speak; but God commands of you in Battle Creek to go forth.

Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903

Chapter 7—Warnings and Counsels Given to the Battle Creek Church

PH151 32.3

Shall the selfishness and the ease of those who have earthly comforts and attractive homes allure us? Shall we cease as moral agencies to use our powers to the saving of souls? Shall our voices be indistinct? Then God will put His curse upon us who have had so great light, and inscribe upon the walls of our homes, “Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” 2 Timothy 3:4. He will put a tongue in the stones, and they will speak; but God commands of you in Battle Creek to go forth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 78, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 78, 1886, par. 1

We are nearing the judgment. Shall we have less and less religion? Shall we be found in conformity to the world? Never could our youth be better described than in these words: “Lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:4.] Serious thoughts are not entertained. Fear and love of God are not cherished. One that is not connected with God can teach evil so much sooner than the God-fearing can teach purity and goodness, for the latter are not palatable to the pleasure lovers who do not love to retain thoughts of God. Oh, if they could only know how God loves them! He wants to make them good and pure, noble and kind and courteous, that they may ever live with the pure, holy angels through eternity. The love Christ has evidenced to them should awaken a response in their own hearts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 9a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 9a, 1893, par. 25

In the blessing God has bestowed upon you, have not your energies been quickened, and the truth, been more deeply impressed upon your soul, and its relating importance to perishing souls out of Christ Are ye <witnesses> for Christ in a more distinct and decided manner after the manifest revealing of God’s blessing upon you? The Holy Spirit’s office work is to bring decidedly to <your> mind the important vital truths. Is this <extra endowment> to be bound up in a napkin and hidden in the earth? No, no, it is to be put out to the exchangers; and as man uses his talents, however small, the Holy Spirit takes the things of God and presents them anew to the mind. He makes the neglected Word to be a vivifying agency through the Spirit. It is quick and powerful upon human minds, not because of the smartness, the educational power of the human agency, but because the divine power works with the human; and it is the divine that deserves all the credit. Shall selfishness and <ease> of those who have earthly comforts, and <attractive> homes and lives of ease, allure us? Shall we cease as moral agencies to use our powers to the saving of souls? Shall our voices be indistinct? Then God will put His curse upon us that have had so great light and inscribe upon the walls of our homes, “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:4.] He will put a tongue in the stones, and they will speak; but God demands of you in Battle Creek to go forth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 51, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 51, 1893, par. 4

In the night season messages have been given to me to give to you in Battle Creek, and to all our schools. While it is in the order of God that the physical powers shall be trained as well as the mental, yet the physical exercise should in character be in complete harmony with the lessons given by Jesus Christ to His disciples. That which is given to the world should be seen in the lives of Christians, so that in education and in self-training the heavenly intelligences should not record in the books that the students and the teachers in our schools are “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12b, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12b, 1893, par. 24

What then, is their influence? They are false lights. They neither burn or shine. Their sentiments and practices are so mixed up with the fashions and practices of the world, they vary scarcely at all from the unconverted. The same self-love, the same love of foolish pleasures, the same hungering and thirsting for amusement, is manifested. Of them the Word declares, “Heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:4.] They are professedly serving God, but after the fashion of the world. They are presenting to the world a distorted image of what constitutes a Christian. They are molding the minds of those with whom they associate to reach a low standard in religious life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 115, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 115, 1903, par. 3

God has declared that sanitariums and hygienic restaurants should be established for the purpose of making known to the world His law. The closing of our restaurants on the Sabbath is to be a witness that there is a people who will not, for worldly gain or to please people, disregard God’s holy rest day. These restaurants are to be established in our cities to bring the truth before many who are engrossed in the business and pleasure of this world. Many of these are professed Christians, but are “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.” [2 Timothy 3:4.] These are to know that God has a people who fear Him and keep His commandments. They are to be taught how to choose and prepare the simple food that is best suited to nourish the body and preserve the health.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 22—Modern Revivals

4SP 295.1

Pleasure-lovers may have their names upon the church-records, they may stand high as worldly-wise men; but they have no connection with Christ of Calvary. The apostle Paul describes a class who are “lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” Concerning them he says, “From such turn away.” [2 Timothy 3:4, 5.] Be not deceived by them, do not imitate their practices.

Radiant Religion

Should Turn Away from Them, August 16

RRe 230.1

Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:4, 5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12a, 1893, par. 35

If those who claim to believe the truth misrepresent their Lord, they are false lights. They neither burn nor shine. Their sentiments and practices are so mingled with the sentiments and practices of the world that there is scarcely any difference between then and the world. They cherish the same self-love, have the same hungering after foolish pleasures, the same thirsting for amusement. Of them the Word declares that they are “heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” [2 Timothy 3:4, 5.] They are professedly serving God, but serving Him after the fashion of the world. They are presenting to the world a distorted image of what constitutes a Christian. They are molding the minds of those with whom they associate to a low standard of religious life. The irreligious class are degraded by the example of those who profess to be Christians and yet present to the world only a worldly religion.

Special Testimonies on Church Schools

A Brief History of Christian Schools

PH081 38.1

Complete Separation—The command found in Revelation 18:4, “Come out of her, my people,” means to come out of those institutions which will place in the minds of our young people, principles which are apt to make them join the class of worshipers of which we read in 2 Timothy 3:5: “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” as faithful watchmen, we should be just as desirous of getting our children out of the popular schools as we are to call the older people out of the popular churches. The popular churches are only a product of worldly education, so to get at the root of the matter, we must separate ourselves from that which creates the condition in which all the religious world, at present, finds itself.

From the Heart

The Barren Fig Tree, April 3

FH 105.1

Having a form of godliness but denying its power. 2 Timothy 3:5. (Read Matthew 21:19-21.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 9, 1880

3LtMs, Ms 9, 1880, par. 12

Desolation and death are in the slimy tracks of this man, and what is to be the most deplored is that some conscientious souls are being deceived. Said the apostle, “Of this sort are they which creep into houses and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts” (2 Timothy 3:6)—not one kind of lust, but divers lusts. But these licentious characters by their false pretensions enter respectable families, creeping in like the slimy serpent, practicing their deceptive wiles and intrigues until conscientious souls are led astray by their errors. Damnable heresies are received as truths, and the most revolting, disgusting sins are committed as acts of righteousness, for conscience has become stupefied and confused.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 142, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 142, 1901, par. 11

There are those who are learners who are fully capable of taking some part in the work of instruction. If the teachers will employ the help thus provided, much care and labor will be spared them. There are students who can be asked to spend part of their time in teaching. Students are not to be like those represented in the Word of God as “ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” [2 Timothy 3:7.] They are to receive to impart.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 162, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 162, 1902, par. 1

The Lord will work with humble men who reveal that they are ever learning, ever under the control of the Holy Spirit. Such men are not of the class represented as “ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” [2 Timothy 3:7.] True learners of Jesus Christ learn to a purpose, becoming more and more Christlike in word and action.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 15—The Bible and the French Revolution

GC 275.1

“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.” Psalm 14:1. And the Lord declares concerning the perverters of the truth: “Their folly shall be manifest unto all.” 2 Timothy 3:9. After France had renounced the worship of the living God, “the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity,” it was only a little time till she descended to degrading idolatry, by the worship of the Goddess of Reason, in the person of a profligate woman. And this in the representative assembly of the nation, and by its highest civil and legislative authorities! Says the historian: “One of the ceremonies of this insane time stands unrivaled for absurdity combined with impiety. The doors of the Convention were thrown open to a band of musicians, preceded by whom, the members of the municipal body entered in solemn procession, singing a hymn in praise of liberty, and escorting, as the object of their future worship, a veiled female, whom they termed the Goddess of Reason. Being brought within the bar, she was unveiled with great form, and placed on the right of the president, when she was generally recognized as a dancing girl of the opera.... To this person, as the fittest representative of that reason whom they worshiped, the National Convention of France rendered public homage.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 15—The Bible and the French Revolution

GC88 275.1

“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God?” [Psalm 14:1.] And the Lord declares concerning the perverters of the truth, “Their folly shall be manifest unto all.” [2 Timothy 3:9.] After France had renounced the worship of the living God, “the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity,” it was only a little time till she descended to degrading idolatry, by the worship of the Goddess of Reason, in the person of a profligate woman. And this in the representative assembly of the nation, and by its highest civil and legislative authorities! Says the historian: “One of the ceremonies of this insane time stands unrivaled for absurdity combined with impiety. The doors of the convention were thrown open to a band of musicians, preceded by whom the members of the municipal body entered in solemn procession, singing a hymn in praise of liberty, and escorting, as the object of their future worship, a veiled female whom they termed the Goddess of Reason. Being brought within the bar, she was unveiled with great form, and placed on the right hand of the president, when she was generally recognized as a dancing girl of the opera.... To this person, as the fittest representative of that reason whom they worshiped, the national convention of France rendered public homage. This impious and ridiculous mummery had a certain fashion; and the installation of the Goddess of Reason was renewed and imitated throughout the nation in such places where the inhabitants desired to show themselves equal to all the heights of the Revolution.”

From Here to Forever

Blasphemous Boldness

HF 172.1

“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.” And the Lord declares, “Their folly shall be manifest unto all.” Psalm 14:1; 2 Timothy 3:9. After France had renounced the worship of the living God she descended to degrading idolatry by the worship of the Goddess of Reason, a profligate woman. And this in the representative assembly of the nation! “One of the ceremonies of this insane time stands unrivaled for absurdity combined with impiety. The doors of the Convention were thrown open. ... The members of the municipal body entered in solemn procession, singing a hymn in praise of liberty, and escorting, as the object of their future worship, a veiled female, whom they termed the Goddess of Reason. Being brought within the bar, she was unveiled with great form, and placed on the right of the president, when she was generally recognized as a dancing girl of the opera.”

Christ Triumphant

They Also Will Persecute You, November 11

CTr 322.1

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12.

The Faith I Live By

Hard Days of Persecution, November 20

FLB 330.1

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

GC 48.3

There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of today. The apostle Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber? The only reason is that the church has conformed to the world’s standard and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and His apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 30—Enmity Between Man and Satan

GC 507.1

The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers as was manifested toward their Master. Whoever sees the repulsive character of sin, and in strength from above resists temptation, will assuredly arouse the wrath of Satan and his subjects. Hatred of the pure principles of truth, and reproach and persecution of its advocates, will exist as long as sin and sinners remain. The followers of Christ and the servants of Satan cannot harmonize. The offense of the cross has not ceased. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 38—The Final Warning

GC 608.1

Conscientious obedience to the word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the commandment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disinherited and driven from home. The words of Paul will be literally fulfilled: “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom all this now seems impossible; but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men, and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God’s fear and love are removed.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

GC88 48.2

There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of today. The apostle Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber?—The only reason is, that the church has conformed to the world’s standard, and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and his apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the Word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 30—Enmity Between Man and Satan

GC88 506.4

The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers as was manifested toward their Master. Whoever sees the repulsive character of sin, and, in strength from above, resists temptation, will assuredly arouse the wrath of Satan and his subjects. Hatred of the pure principles of truth, and reproach and persecution of its advocates, will exist as long as sin and sinners remain. The followers of Christ and the servants of Satan cannot harmonize. The offense of the cross has not ceased. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.]

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 38—The Final Warning

GC88 607.2

Conscientious obedience to the Word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the commandment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disinherited, and driven from home. The words of Paul will be literally fulfilled, “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom, all this now seems impossible; but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men, and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God’s fear and love are removed.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

4SP 49.3

There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of today. The apostle Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber?—The only reason is, that the church has conformed to the world’s standard, and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion current in our day is not of the pure and holy character which marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and his apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 25—Enmity Between Man and Satan

4SP 326.1

The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers as was manifested toward their Master. Whoever sees the repulsive character of sin, and, in strength from above, resists temptation, will assuredly arouse the wrath of Satan and his subjects. Hatred of the pure principles of truth, and reproach and persecution of its advocates, will exist as long as sin and sinners remain. The followers of Christ and the servants of Satan cannot harmonize. The offense of the cross has not ceased. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.]

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 33—The Loud Cry

4SP 425.2

Conscientious obedience to the word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the commandment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disinherited, and driven from home. The words of Paul will be literally fulfilled, “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-Sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom, all this now seems impossible; but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men, and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God’s fear and love are removed.

Conflict and Courage

Beyond the Gloom to Glory, December 20

CC 360.1

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12.

The Story of Redemption

Withdrawal of the Faithful

SR 324.3

The apostle Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber? The only reason is that the church has conformed to the world’s standard, and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion current in our day is not of the pure and holy character which marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and His apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the Word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.

Australasian Signs of the Times

April 8, 1912

BEcho April 8, 1912, par. 8

Cain hated and killed his brother, not for any wrong that Abel had done, but “because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” 1 John 3:12. So in all ages the wicked have hated those who were better than themselves. Abel’s life of obedience and unswerving faith was to Cain a perpetual reproof. “Every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” John 3:20. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. The brighter the heavenly light that is reflected from the character of God’s faithful servants, the more clearly the sins of the ungodly are revealed, and the more determined will be their efforts to destroy those who disturb their peace.

From Here to Forever

Two Classes in the Church

HF 31.3

Paul declares that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Why is it, then, that persecution seems to slumber? The only reason is that the church has conformed to the world’s standard and therefore awakens no opposition. Religion in our day is not the pure and holy faith of Christ and His apostles. Because the truths of the Word of God are indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, Christianity is popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith of the early church, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.

From Here to Forever

Chapter 30—Satan and Man at War

HF 312.4

The antagonism between Christ and Satan was strikingly displayed in the world’s reception of Jesus. The purity and holiness of Christ called forth against Him the hatred of the ungodly. His self-denial was a perpetual reproof to a proud, sensual people. Satan and evil angels joined with evil men against the Champion of truth. The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers. Whoever resists temptation will arouse the wrath of Satan. Christ and Satan cannot harmonize. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

From Here to Forever

The Great Test of Loyalty

HF 370.1

Obedience to God will be treated as rebellion. The parent will exercise severity toward the believing child. Children will be disinherited and driven from home. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. As the defenders of truth refuse to honor Sunday, some will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. As the Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God’s fear and love are removed.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Grace from Christ

GrH_c 5.4

The antagonism between Christ and Satan was strikingly displayed in the world’s reception of Jesus. The purity and holiness of Christ called forth against Him the hatred of the ungodly. His self-denial was a perpetual reproof to a proud, sensual people. Satan and evil angels joined with evil men against the Champion of truth. The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers. Whoever resists temptation will arouse the wrath of Satan. Christ and Satan cannot harmonize. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

Homeward Bound

Implanted Grace, November 5

HB 338.4

The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers as was manifested toward their Master. Whoever sees the repulsive character of sin, and in strength from above resists temptation, will assuredly arouse the wrath of Satan and his subjects. Hatred of the pure principles of truth, and reproach and persecution of its advocates, will exist as long as sin and sinners remain. The followers of Christ and the servants of Satan cannot harmonize. The offense of the cross has not ceased. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” (2 Timothy 3:12.) . . .

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 75, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 75, 1886, par. 34

The form of Satan’s working will be changed as the circumstances change. He adjusts himself readily to circumstances, but his hatred of truth and righteousness will be peculiarly manifested near the close of time. Religion is obedience to God’s law, and Satan will so deceive minds that have not been open to receive the truth that truth will be regarded as error, righteousness as sin. Parents will be enraged against their children and disown them. Fathers and guardians will change their wills and pervert their trusts to their children because they conscientiously keep the commandments of God; this will be a matter of actual experience. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 4, 1883

4LtMs, Ms 4, 1883, par. 74

Calumny and reproach will be the recompense of those who stand for the truth as it is in Jesus. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Those who bear a plain testimony against sin will as surely be hated as was the Master who gave them this work to do in His name.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 30a, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 30a, 1892, par. 15

But we must stand steadfastly for the truth, not returning railing for railing, but contrariwise, blessing. Parents will turn harshly against their children who accept unpopular truth. Those who conscientiously serve God will be accused of rebellion. Property that was willed to children or other relatives who believe the present truth will be given into other hands. Guardians will rob orphans and widows of their just dues. Those who depart from evil will make themselves a prey, through laws enacted to compel the conscience. Men will take to themselves property to which they have no right. The words of the apostle will be verified in the near future: “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1387—The Lot of God’s People in a World of Sin; Peter’s Denial and Jesus’ Trial; Satan’s Confederacy of Evil Angels and Evil Men

19MR 162.2

[John 15:18-25; 16:1-4, quoted.] The truth of these words of Christ has been a reality in the experience of those who have been loyal and true to the God of heaven, according to the light received. “If they have persecuted Me,” He said, “they will also persecute you; if they have kept My sayings, they will keep yours also” [John 15:20]. “All that will live [not merely profess] godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” [2 Timothy 3:12]. “And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known [by experimental knowledge] the Father, nor Me” [John 16:3].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 25, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 25, 1892, par. 6

“Or persecution?”—no; “Blessed are they that are persecuted for righteousness sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” “Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets that were before you.” [Matthew 5:10-12.] Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed. “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak then I am strong.” [2 Corinthians 12:10.] “Yea, and all who will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 104, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 104, 1897, par. 6

The truth of these words of Christ has become a reality in the experience of those who have been loyal and true to the God of heaven, according to the light received. “If they have persecuted me,” He said, “they will also persecute you; if they have kept my sayings, they will keep yours also.” [John 15:20.] “All who will live [not merely profess] godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] “And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known [by experimental knowledge] the Father nor me.” [John 16:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 130, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 130, 1897, par. 12

“All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecutions,” He says again. [2 Timothy 3:12.] But this should not intimidate one soul. What can give such sunshine to the soul as the evidence of sins forgiven? What can impart true nobility if it is not the restoration of the moral image of God in man? From whence can peace come to the soul if not from the Prince of peace? To what source can we look for help but to Him who can give us light in the midst of darkness?

Jesus, Name Above All Names

One Mightier Than Satan, February 27

JNN 66.1

And all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.—2 Timothy 3:12

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Champion of Truth, July 3

JNN 197.1

Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.—2 Timothy 3:12

Maranatha

The Sunday Law Is Invoked, June 27

Mar 186.3

Conscientious obedience to the word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the commandment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disinherited and driven from home. The words of Paul will be literally fulfilled: “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves....

Maranatha

Persecuted for Christ’s Sake, July 6

Mar 195.1

All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12.

Our High Calling

The Struggle Against Wind and Tide, December 19

OHC 359.3

If the members of the church labor faithfully to build up the cause of truth, they will not escape the tongue of gossip, falsehood, and slander. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12. Their consistent, unwavering course is a constant rebuke of the unbelief, pride, and selfishness of the hypocritical professor.

Our High Calling

The Cross Before the Crown, December 21

OHC 361.1

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 59—The First King of Israel

PP 607.5

In the character of Samuel we see reflected the likeness of Christ. It was the purity of our Saviour’s life that provoked the wrath of Satan. That life was the light of the world, and revealed the hidden depravity in the hearts of men. It was the holiness of Christ that stirred up against Him the fiercest passions of falsehearted professors of godliness. Christ came not with the wealth and honors of earth, yet the works which He wrought showed Him to possess power greater than that of any human prince. The Jews looked for the Messiah to break the oppressor’s yoke, yet they cherished the sins that had bound it upon their necks. Had Christ cloaked their sins and applauded their piety, they would have accepted Him as their king; but they would not bear His fearless rebuke of their vices. The loveliness of a character in which benevolence, purity, and holiness reigned supreme, which entertained no hatred except for sin, they despised. Thus it has been in every age of the world. The light from heaven brings condemnation on all who refuse to walk in it. When rebuked by the example of those who hate sin, hypocrites will become agents of Satan to harass and persecute the faithful. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

Selected Messages Book 1

An Answer to a Challenge

1SM 73.1

Calumny and reproach will be the recompense of those who stand for the truth as it is in Jesus. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). Those who bear a plain testimony against sin will as surely be hated as was the Master who gave them this work to do in His name. Like Christ, they will be called the enemies of the church and of religion, and the more earnest and true their efforts to honor God, the more bitter will be the enmity of the ungodly and hypocritical. But we should not be discouraged when thus treated.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 87, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 87, 1897, par. 13

The true and faithful follower of Christ must suffer persecution. There is no way of avoiding it. Paul wrote to Timothy, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them.” [2 Timothy 3:12-14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 103, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 103, 1894, par. 12

As we proclaim the binding claims of the law of God upon every human being, those who will not be convinced, who turn away their ears from hearing the truth, and are turned unto fables, choosing to feed upon a dish of maxims, customs, and commandments of men, will use the best weapons they have in warring against the truth. They will bear false witness, manufacture lies to blacken the reputation of those who have proclaimed the message of truth for half a century. All who come out from the world and are separated must count on meeting ridicule, sneers, and reviling. They must expect that their life and mission will be misrepresented. This was what our Saviour bore for us; shall we complain of the suffering we must endure for His sake? God forbid! Men that are in harmony with the great lawbreaker may laugh now; they may clothe in blackest garments those who present the Bible and the Bible alone as the authority for their faith. We will bear in mind that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” and all who sneer at truth and ridicule those who are proclaiming truth will weep and pray, “Lord open unto us.” He will answer, “I know you not.” [2 Timothy 3:12; Matthew 25:11, 12.]

9LtMs, Lt 103, 1894, par. 25

Satan will work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness to personate Jesus Christ. If it were possible, he would deceive the very elect. Now if the counterfeit bears so close a resemblance to the genuine, is it not essential to be on your guard, that no man deceive you? Christ enforces His warnings, saying, “Behold, I have told you before.” [Verse 25.] Brethren, preach the Word, call not the people to rest their faith upon uncertain things or to place confidence in the human agent. I have the word from the Lord. I was shown Elder Rice before a number of persons reading from the professed revelations of Anna Phillips. A noble, dignified Person was present, and with a grieved expression upon His countenance He removed the written document, placed in Brother Rice’s hand the Bible, and said, “Take the Word of God as your text book. ‘All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works’” 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 42, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, par. 9

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.]

22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, par. 19

But I am to say to you, The Son of God was manifested that He might establish true reforms, and that He might draw all men unto Him. He tells us that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] The Son of God calls Himself the Son of Man. He came to draw all men unto Him, but some will not be drawn. He says, “I came not to send peace on earth, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 56, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 54

“All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation.” [2 Timothy 3:12-15.] There must be a watching for souls, as they that must give an account. Ezekiel 33:1-20.

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 55

Is there not as great need at this time for warnings and reproof as at any period of this earth’s history? And warnings will come, discovering the hidden things of darkness. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] There are individuals who require plain words of reproof, and the apostle says, “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.” [1 Timothy 5:20.]

Maranatha

Turmoil in the Cities, May 13

Mar 141.1

Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13.

Our High Calling

On Guard Every Moment, December 22

OHC 362.1

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:13.

From Here to Forever

Miller Finds a Friend

HF 200.4

He became satisfied that the popular view of a temporal millennium before the end of the world was not sustained by the Word of God. This doctrine, pointing to a thousand years of peace before the coming of the Lord, is contrary to the teachings of Christ and His apostles, who declared that the wheat and the tares are to grow together until the harvest, the end of the world, and that “evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse.” 2 Timothy 3:13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 12, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 25

One decided evidence we have that these exercises are not of God is that they concur with your views, which we know to be erroneous. Things she says she sees in vision are not sustained by the Word of God, but are contrary to it. Satan is constantly at work to imbue her with his own spirit, that through her, under a cloak of righteousness, he may bring in <commonness,> heresies, and defilement. As you regard her utterances as from God, your faith in the true testimonies is <valueless>; and thus Satan hopes to disconnect you, and all who have any confidence in your ideas, from the agencies that God has ordained, that you may be left to believe a lie. <The Scriptures speak of those who are deceived and are being deceived. [2 Timothy 3:13.] This is your case. You deceive your daughter; she deceives you—the blind leading the blind.> The enemy seeks to accomplish his purposes by various means, as shall best meet the circumstances and situation of those whom he sees he can allure by temptation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 46, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 46, 1897, par. 3

But the Word of God contains the truth, and all those who support the truth of God for this time are doing their work for time and for eternity. Those who bring the Word of God into mind and heart are distinctly taking their stand on the side of God and the universe of heaven. They will stand heart to heart and hand to hand in defence of the holy and the pure, that which will stand the test of ages. Those who support error by word and pen and voice, and by the oppression of those who are linked with the truth, are ranged upon the other side, with the first great apostate and the evil men who are his agents. The Word declares of these that they shall “wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” [2 Timothy 3:13.] And on one of these two sides, men will labor to the end.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 107b, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 107b, 1900, par. 6

I must not prolong this letter. I leave today for Melbourne to speak at North Fitzroy and at Windsor on the Sabbath, and back at Geelong to speak to the people here on Sunday. Be sure to move in the counsel of God. Do not follow the methods of Dr. Kellogg, for he is not doing the work God has appointed him to do. He has not followed the counsel of the Lord, given him to practice by, and his colleagues have not been faithful and true as steel to principle. The work, with Dr. Kellogg and his physicians connected with him, is best described [as] “deceived and being deceived.” [2 Timothy 3:13.] Deception never pays. It is a terrible school, in the end, for any one to diverge from the straight, Thus saith the Lord, “It is written.” God will help everyone who loves Him and fear Him. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Work and work in the fear of God, in unity and love one with another, and never suffer wrong to go without carefully shunning. You will not sustain wrong but will be a worker together with God to refuse any connivance to hurt one another.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 21, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, par. 3

Such teachers are described in Paul’s words, “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” The apostle says, “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; ... All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:13, 14, 16, 17.] If our minds are open to receive the truth, we shall not be misled by the false messages which come to us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 16, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 16, 1897, par. 9

The apostle Paul just prior to his death assured Timothy that he was acquainted with his life and practice, and that all who will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and has been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” [2 Timothy 3:13-15.] “These things command and teach. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of presbytery. Meditate upon these things: give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” [1 Timothy 4:11-16.]

12LtMs, Ms 16, 1897, par. 21

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] If we would open safe paths for the students in regard to their religious faith, we must keep from them infidel authors, that they may not read their vain babblings. The work of every teacher in the day school and in the Sabbath school should be to fasten the mind of the student upon the grand truths of the Word of inspiration. That Word is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto every good work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 130, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 130, 1906, par. 39

“But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:13-17.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 85, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 85, 1899, par. 8

Instead of the constant reference to authors in our papers, instead of the publication of the lives of men, and what they have done or are doing, let a decided message to the world come from the pens of men whose writings reveal that they are under the influence of the Holy Spirit, who understand and heed the admonition of Paul to Timothy, “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them.” [2 Timothy 3:14.] Those who work under the direction of the Holy Spirit will keep the educational forces turned towards Him who is too wise to err, too good to be unjust.

My Life Today

Timothy’s Life a Result of Family Religion, January 30

ML 34.1

Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14, 15.

This Day With God

Guide Book to Salvation, April 28

TDG 127.1

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14, 15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 88, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 88, 1895, par. 12

With earnest words the great apostle addressed Timothy, saying, “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” [2 Timothy 3:14, 15.] The Lord has given His gifts to the members of the church, and the gifts differ according to the ability of the members to use them to His glory. Many make a mistake by not being content to do the very work that they might do acceptably. Instead of doing the work willingly, they are ever seeking to work on someone else’s talents, and are ever longing to do that for which they are not fitted.

Conflict and Courage

From a Child, December 5

CC 345.1

From a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15.

CC 345.2

We see the advantage that Timothy had in a correct example of piety and true godliness. Religion was the atmosphere of his home. The manifest spiritual power of the piety in the home kept him pure in speech, and free from all corrupting sentiments.9The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:919.

CC 345.3

God had commanded the Hebrews to teach their children His requirements and to make them acquainted with all His dealings with their fathers. This was one of the special duties of every parent—one that was not to be delegated to another. In the place of stranger lips the loving hearts of the father and mother were to give instruction to their children. Thoughts of God were to be associated with all the events of daily life. The mighty works of God in the deliverance of His people and the promises of the Redeemer to come were to be often recounted in the homes of Israel.... The great truths of God’s providence and of the future life were impressed on the young mind. It was trained to see God alike in the scenes of nature and the words of revelation. The stars of heaven, the trees and flowers of the field, the lofty mountains, the rippling brooks—all spoke of the Creator. The solemn service of sacrifice and worship at the sanctuary and the utterances of the prophets were a revelation of God.

CC 345.4

Such was the training of Moses in the lowly cabin home in Goshen; of Samuel, by the faithful Hannah; of David, in the hill dwelling at Bethlehem; of Daniel, before the scenes of the captivity separated him from the home of his fathers. Such, too, was the early life of Christ at Nazareth; such the training by which the child Timothy learned from the lips of his grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice, the truths of Holy Writ.10Patriarchs and Prophets, 592.

CC 345.5

Parents, there is a great work for you to do for Jesus.... Satan seeks to bind the children to himself as with bands of steel, and you can attain success in bringing them to Jesus only through determined personal effort.11Selected Messages 1:319.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 94, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 94, 1892, par. 12

The Lord has a word to speak to you: “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 16, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, par. 26

The greatest Teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard He has given for all who believe in Him to reach? “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] As God is perfect in His high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain, which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character. See 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Romans 15:4; Colossians 2:8-10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 59, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 59, 1898, par. 17

Defects exist in the church, and we need clear discernment, not only to see, but to take up the unwelcome task of pointing out these defects. This is an important phase of missionary work. We are to watch for souls as they that must give an account. The instruction given to Timothy by his father in the gospel was, “Continue thou in all things which thou hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 96, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 96, 1899, par. 3

The Word of God contains all necessary information. Writing to Timothy the apostle Paul says, “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them. And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 85a, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 85a, 1899, par. 5

The constant reference to authors in our papers is not the work God has marked out for His people. Our papers are not to publish the lives of men, what they have done, or are doing. We have a decided message to bear to the world, and it is to come from the pens of men whose writings reveal that they are under the influence of the Holy Spirit’s teaching, men who understand and heed the admonition of Paul to Timothy, “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.] Those who work under the direction of the Holy Spirit will keep the educational forces turned toward Him who is too wise to err, too good to be unjust.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 209, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 209, 1902, par. 6

I ask you to take to yourselves these words of Paul to Timothy: “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 189, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, par. 8

The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, who in his youth was a minister of the gospel: “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 193, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 193, 1905, par. 7

“Continue thou in the things which thou hast heard, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17; 4:1-5.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1375—Experience of Golden Calf an Example for God’s People Today; Danger in Pleasure Seeking, Especially Among Youth; Development of a Christian Character

19MR 117.2

The living God has given in His holy law a transcript of His character. The greatest Teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard He has given for all who believe in Him to reach? “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” [Matthew 5:48]. As God is perfect in His high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain, which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character. (See 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Romans 15:4; Colossians 2:8-10.)

Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]

MR No. 1043—The Bible as Our Study Book

13MR 261.1

The Word of God contains all necessary information. Writing to Timothy the apostle Paul says: [2 Timothy 3:14-17, quoted.]

Special Testimonies On Education

Chapter 24—The Holy Spirit in the Schools

SpTEd 206.1

The religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver, it never makes him coarse or rough, discourteous or self-important, passionate or hard-hearted. On the contrary, it refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, and purifies and ennobles the thoughts, by bringing them into captivity to Jesus Christ. God’s ideal for his children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. The living God has given in his holy law a transcript of his character. The greatest teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard he has given for all who believe in him to reach? — “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” As God is perfect in his high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain, which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character. (See 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Romans 15:4; Colossians 2:8-10.)

Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church

Ideal of Christian Character

PH154 53.1

The Religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver, it never makes him course or rough, discourteous or self-important, passionate or hard-hearted. On the contrary, it refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, purifies and ennobles the thoughts, by bringing them into captivity to Jesus Christ. God’s ideal for his children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. The living God has given in his holy law a transcript of his character. The greatest teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard he has given for all who believe in him, to reach?—“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” As God is perfect in his high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character, (See 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Romans 15:4; Colossians 2:8-10.)

Lift Him Up

Lessons From Timothy, April 28

LHU 132.1

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 58—The Schools of the Prophets

PP 592.3

Such was the training of Moses in the lowly cabin home in Goshen; of Samuel, by the faithful Hannah; of David, in the hill dwelling at Bethlehem; of Daniel, before the scenes of the captivity separated him from the home of his fathers. Such, too, was the early life of Christ at Nazareth; such the training by which the child Timothy learned from the lips of his grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15), the truths of Holy Writ.

Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887

Two weeks of public evangelism at Nimes, France

EGWE 240.4

It was true of this diminutive woman from the United States as it was of young Timothy “that from a child thou has known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15).

From Eternity Past

Chapter 58—The Schools of the Prophets

EP 431.2

Such was the training of Moses in Goshen; of Samuel by Hannah; of David in Bethlehem; of Daniel before captivity separated him from his fathers; of Christ at Nazareth; such the training by which the child Timothy learned from his grandmother Lois, and his mother Eunice. 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15.

From the Heart

An Enlightened Church, November 8

FH 324.1

And that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 117a, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, par. 36

Timothy’s mother and grandmother were united in their efforts to train him for God. What was his lesson book? The Bible. Paul, his father in the gospel, declares, “From a child thou hast known the holy scriptures.” [2 Timothy 3:15.] The faith of the mother and grandmother in the oracles of God was a constant illustration to Timothy of the blessing of doing God’s will.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 41, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 41, 1903, par. 7

There are many who do not mix faith with their hearing of God’s Word, and they receive no benefit from what is presented to them. Their minds are so filled with their temporal interests, that spiritual truths have no influence upon them. Those who have the privilege of hearing the most precious truths ever given to mortals need to arouse their minds and to be more enthusiastic in seeking to comprehend the Word of God. Unless the truths of the discourse are brought into the home life; unless the mind is growing in the knowledge of God, no advancement will be made in understanding the Scriptures, “which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” [2 Timothy 3:15.] There will be a continual backsliding from God.

A Call To Stand Apart

Chapter 17—Authority of Scripture

CSA 68.1

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:15-17.

Child Guidance

Chapter 77—The Bible in the Home

CG 512.2

Be Not Satisfied With Superficial Knowledge—The importance of seeking a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures can hardly be estimated. “Given by inspiration of God” able to make us “wise unto salvation,” rendering the man of God “perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:15-17), the Bible has the highest claim to our reverent attention. We should not be satisfied with a superficial knowledge, but should seek to learn the full meaning of the words of truth, to drink deep of the spirit of the Holy Oracles.22Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 139.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

The Bible

CT 139.2

The importance of seeking a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures can hardly be estimated. “Given by inspiration of God,” able to make us “wise unto salvation,” rendering the man of God “perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:15-17), the Bible has the highest claim to our reverent attention. We should not be satisfied with a superficial knowledge, but should seek to learn the full meaning of the words of truth, to drink deep of the spirit of the Holy Oracles.

Messages to Young People

Chapter 91—The Bible the Most Interesting Book

MYP 283.3

The importance of seeking a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures can hardly be estimated. “Given by inspiration of God,” able to make us “wise unto salvation,” rendering the man of God “perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:15-17), the Bible has the highest claim to our reverent attention. We should not be satisfied with a superficial knowledge, but should seek to learn the full meaning of the words of truth, to drink deep of the spirit of the Holy Oracles.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 138-139.

The Review and Herald

January 30, 1913

RH January 30, 1913, par. 11

The importance of seeking a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures can hardly be estimated. “Given by inspiration of God,” able to make us “wise unto salvation,” rendering the man of God “perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:15-17), the Bible has the highest claim to our reverent attention. We should not be satisfied with a superficial knowledge, but should seek to learn the full meaning of the words of truth, to drink deep of the spirit of the holy oracles.

Early Writings

Introduction

EW 136.3

The objection founded upon 2 Timothy 3:16, which some have gravely presented, deserves no more than a passing remark. If Paul, in saying that the Scriptures are to make the man of God perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works, meant that nothing more should be written by inspiration, why was he at that moment adding to those Scriptures? At least why did he not drop the pen as soon as that sentence was written? And why did John, thirty years afterward, write the book of Revelation? This book contains another textwhich is quoted to prove the abolition of spiritual gifts.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 13—William Miller

4SP 205.1

After two years of careful investigation, he was fully satisfied, that the Bible is its own interpreter; that it is a system of revealed truths so clearly and simply given that the wayfaring man, though a fool, need not err therein; that “all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness;” [2 Timothy 3:16.] that “prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost;” [2 Peter 1:21.] that it was written “for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” [Romans 15:4.]

Ye Shall Receive Power

Given by Inspiration of God, August 1

YRP 222.1

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16.

The Review and Herald

August 30, 1906

RH August 30, 1906, par. 5

“The Bible points to God as its Author; yet it was written by human hands; and in the varied style of its different books it presents the characteristics of the several writers. The truths revealed are all `given by inspiration of God’ (2 Timothy 3:16); yet they are expressed in the words of men. The Infinite One by his Holy Spirit had shed light into the minds and hearts of his servants. He has given dreams and visions, symbols and figures; and those to whom the truth was thus revealed, have themselves embodied the thought in human language.

Christ in His Sanctuary

The Impact of Bible Chronology

CIHS 80.1

“As I was fully convinced,” says Miller, “that all Scripture given by inspiration of God is profitable (2 Timothy 3:16); that it came not at any time by the will of man, but was written as holy men were moved by the Holy Ghost (2 Peter 1:21), and was written ‘for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope’ (Romans 15:4), I could but regard the chronological portions of the Bible as being as much a portion of the word of God, and as much entitled to our serious consideration, as any other portion of the Scriptures. I therefore felt that in endeavoring to comprehend what God had in His mercy seen fit to reveal to us, I had no right to pass over the prophetic periods.”—Bliss, page 75.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 1, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 1, 1882, par. 35

Changes are not always reforms for the better. The question for us to settle is whether we will be identified with certain movements and organizations which claim to be adapted to benefit society. If these parties are what they claim to be, they deserve the support and sympathy of all Christians. If, on the other hand, they have no foundation in principle, no actuating spirit of beneficence which characterizes reforms, we may not mistake our duty. The Word of God is the infallible guide. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16. All this, saith the Lord, will be our motto, giving us every needed direction.

Faith and Works

Chapter 6—A Warning Against Counterfeit Sanctification

FW 51.2

The Bible is the standard by which to test the claims of all who profess sanctification. Jesus prayed that His disciples might be sanctified through the truth, and He says, “Thy word is truth” (John 17:17); while the psalmist declares, “Thy law is the truth” (Psalm 119:142). All whom God is leading will manifest a high regard for the Scriptures in which His voice is heard. The Bible will be to them “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16). “Ye shall know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16).