Scripture speaks of the "latter times," the "last days," (2 Tim. 3:11This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (2 Timothy 3:1)) and the "end of the days" (2 Peter 3:33Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, (2 Peter 3:3)). This chapter gives the latter times, the result of the assembly's disregarding the warnings against Judaism. First we see Catholicism, then the formation of a system of forms and ceremonies like Israel, and today all in full bloom, bringing us to the last days of 2 Tim. 3:1-91This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. 9But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was. (2 Timothy 3:1‑9).
Paul warned Timothy about what was coming. To Judaism were added certain innovations, which set aside the original instructions as to marriage, observing days, and of eating meats.
We are thankful for our food which is sanctified (blessed) by the Word of God and prayer. Bodily exercise profits a little. Godliness profits for the life that now is and is to come.
Paul spoke of laboring and suffering reproach while trusting in the living God and Savior, present Preserver of all men and eternal Savior for those who believe. Paul exhorted Timothy to keep himself pure and by his whole manner of life to be an example of what a young believer should be.
There were no printed copies of the Scriptures in Timothy's day, but usually one stood up to read a scroll or parchment to the assembly. After a portion was read, brothers exhorted from the doctrine (teaching) set forth in it. The apostle admonished Timothy to carry on this ministry.
Timothy was not to forget the gift bestowed upon him; it was a solemn commitment. The laying of hands on him only confirmed the gift bestowed upon him. By continually taking heed to the teaching and to himself, Timothy would save (preserve) both himself and those who heard him, in the path of faith.