Page 79 - Pastoral Epistles I & 2 Timothy, Titus

According to tradition, Jannes and Jambres were two of the magicians who counterfeited Moses’ miracles before
Pharaoh.
Exodus 7:11, 12. Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians
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also did the same things by their secret arts: Each one threw down his staff, and it became a
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snake. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs.
The only antidote against the deceptive evil of the enemy is the true gospel of Jesus Christ and the power of
God’s Word of truth. People can hide their sins for a while, but eventually, the truth will be revealed. Sooner or
later, distraction, opposition, anger, or fatigue will wear them down, and their true hearts will be exposed. They
cannot pick where and when they will be tested. We need to live each day – ready for Satan’s attacks, fully
trusting in God and His goodness.

What does it mean in V4 to be a lover of pleasure rather than a lover of God?
Is it wrong to enjoy pleasurable things or experiences? Is it possible to love both?
Spiritual faithfulness in the past is not a guarantee of faithfulness in the future. Any of us could
stumble and fall, which is why all church leaders need to have people to whom they are accountable.

Spiritual faithfulness in the future requires recognizing and following godly examples of men and women who
follow the Scriptures. We all need examples to follow, which is why the Bible gives us the stories of so many
faithful witnesses. Although we see many who fall into sin, thankfully, there are many others, such as Paul and
Timothy, who finish well.

How do you discern whether someone is a godly example?

Paul gives us two solid guidelines:
(1). A godly example is known for their teaching (3:10).

(2). A godly example is known for their character (3:10).
10 You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love,
and endurance.

Let’s Practice…

1. In II Tim. 2:10, Paul endures suffering for the sake of the elect. Who are the elect?

2. According to I Peter 1:1-2 (Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the elect…, according to the foreknowledge of

God the Father), how does God’s foreknowledge connect to election?

3. According to 2 Peter 3:9, how many people does God desire to be saved?

4-6. What three principles should be applied when dealing with someone in a congregation who is living in sin?

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