This is the fourth article in a series of articles written for the Scofield Prophecy Studies website (www.scopro.org) under the main heading entitled:
"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires; 4 and will turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn aside to myths," (2 Timothy 4:3-4).
If we pay close attention, we can see (and hear) Paul’s prophetic words being fulfilled right now. One may argue that there have always been cults, false religions and pseudo-churches around. However, what Paul is talking about is not outside of the Church - he’s referring to what would be happening within the Church.
“they will not endure sound doctrine.” The Greek word translated as “sound” means to be correct, to be accurate. Many a godly pastor has been asked to leave a church simply because his desire was to remain true to God’s Word. He taught the whole counsel of God, including the parts about sin, wrong behavior and God’s sovereignty. The congregation (however small or large) thought his message was too serious or perhaps he wasn’t telling enough jokes. So, he was “asked to resign.”
“they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires.” The solution seems to be to find someone who “makes us feel good about ourselves.” “We need to find a pastor who won’t make any judgments.” “We need to find a pastor who believes that everyone is going to heaven because a loving God would never send anyone to hell.” “We need to find a pastor who believes in singing more and teaching less.” They get what they want at peril of their souls.
“and will turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn aside to myths.” Though this is not a new phenomenon, it as been accelerated at a rate that is nothing less than astounding. The amount of non-biblical doctrine that’s being taught from pulpits across the country is frightening. The biblical illiteracy found in churches today amongst the congregations leaves them wide open to the “myths” being put forth by their teachers and pastors.
Paul’s admonition to Timothy was to “preach the Word.” Lest we forget, “the Word” Paul was talking about was God’s Word, the Bible - not man’s philosophies, theories, or opinions.
In his letter to the church at Rome, Paul writes, “Whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved. How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!'” (Romans 10:14-15).
To those who are "sent," listen to Paul and “preach the Word” from your pulpits. God will honor your faithfulness. To those who are sent, how can we do anything less and still remain faithful to our calling and obedient to our God?
May the Lord give you strength and courage as you shepherd your flock and preach His Word.
By His Grace,
Dr. Gary T. Dromi
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