“A time will come when people will not listen to accurate teachings. Instead, they will follow their own desires and surround themselves with teachers who tell them what they want to hear. People will refuse to listen to the truth and turn to myths” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 GW).
This not the first time Paul the Apostle has addressed the subject of mythic beliefs and their relationship to sound Biblical teaching in his New Testament letters to Timothy. The challenge of interacting with those who chose to reject the truth in favor of myths or fables (NKJV) was an ongoing reality for Paul…
“As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work–which is by faith” (1 Timothy 1:3-4 NIV).
Paul addressed a similar concern in his Biblical letter to Titus…
“…rebuke them sharply that they may be healthy in the faith and not pay attention to Jewish myths and commands of people who reject the truth” (Titus 1:13-14 NET).
In this context, a “myth” refers to a legendary account or fabricated religious story. So why would some choose to devote themselves to such things? Well, the answer may have something to do with one aspect of human nature.
You see, people naturally gravitate towards things that are easy. This is not necessarily a bad thing. For instance, it would be foolish to engage in a difficult procedure when an easier method can achieve the same result with less effort. The problem is that God’s Word often asks us to do difficult things.
For example, it is relatively easy to speculate on matters of religious opinion, share our thoughts regarding the state of modern-day spirituality, or offer theories concerning prophetic events that have not yet taken place. It is often easier to surround ourselves with those who are willing to accommodate us in these areas and avoid others who are committed to speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
On the other hand, it is much more difficult to forgive those who have wronged us, demonstrate the love of Christ to unpleasant people, or accept correction from God’s Word in those areas of life where we might be falling short. Those who choose to isolate themselves from such challenges may wish to consider if they are among those whom Paul addresses here in 2 Timothy 4:3-4.