just as jannes and jambres opposed moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. [2 timothy 3:8]
false teaching opposes the truth. it comes against, it battles against, it wars against, it is violently against. all of these phrases help unpack the meaning of the word oppose here in verse 8. the lie: false teaching is just a different view point. diversity of view is ok, even needed. the truth: the enemy is after hearts and minds. he strategically and violently opposes the truths of the gospel you are trying to believe and embrace.
question: what does this say about our lives in Christ as his son and daughter – that the enemy “opposes” the truth?
- think on this. wait on the Lord and give yourself 3 minutes to see what all you can come up with. then, write out or at least come up with a few clear implications that can inform your prayers this morning. (for example, one implication is we are daily in a war. wake up!)
- then, pour through these scriptures and let the Holy Spirit fill you with truth and lead your prayers today.
long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. he is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. after making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. [heb 1:1-4]
and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. [john 1:14]
stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. in all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. to that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, [eph 6:14-18]
therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. as obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, [1 pet 1:13-15]
for everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? [1 john 5:4-5]
~ john ryan