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2 Timothy 2:18

KJV

Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.

Read it in context Handle the word rightly
Start reading at 2 Timothy 2:14 (2 Timothy 2:14 to 2 Timothy 2:19). An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.

Paul contrasts approved work with empty disputes and names a false teaching about resurrection that is overturning some hearers' faith.

  1. 2:14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
  2. 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
  3. 2:16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
  4. 2:17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
  5. 2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
  6. 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

Who

What

When

Where

How

Cited: 2 Timothy 2:14, 2 Timothy 2:19, 2 Timothy 1:17, 2 Timothy 2:8, 2 Timothy 3:15

Who wrote it, and how we know

Paul the apostle Named in Scripture
What Scripture saysPaul names himself in the opening verse. 2 Timothy 1:1
Early traditionUniform early tradition names Paul.
What is debatedGrouped with the other Pastorals in the critical discussion above.

Related passages

Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).

Macro-Structure

See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.

2 Timothy

Paul writes to Timothy from a setting of suffering and approaching death, urging him to preserve and teach the received message. The personal charge repeatedly joins sound doctrine with endurance and conduct.

2 Timothy 1:1 2 Timothy 1:2 2 Timothy 1:8 2 Timothy 4:6

The entrusted testimony
2 Timothy 1:1–18

FocusCourage and faithful keeping

Connection to the wholePaul recalls Timothy's faith and gift, urging him not to be ashamed and to guard the trust through the Holy Ghost.
interpretation
The faithful worker
2 Timothy 2:1–26 You are here · 2:18

FocusTransmission, endurance, and gentle correction

Connection to the wholeImages of disciplined service lead into directions for teaching, personal holiness, and patient treatment of opponents.
interpretation
Difficult times and the Scriptures
2 Timothy 3:1–17

FocusDiscernment and continued learning

Connection to the wholePaul warns about corrupt conduct and deception, then directs Timothy to continue in what he has learned through the holy Scriptures.
interpretation
The final charge and farewell
2 Timothy 4:1–22

FocusPreaching and finishing the course

Connection to the wholeThe command to preach is set beside Paul's approaching death and personal instructions concerning fellow workers and needs.
interpretation

Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.

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