When False Teachers Infiltrate

Paul began the second major division in his letter to Timothy by warning and instructing him how to stand firm against the opposition that was coming from within the church. Unbelievers in the church had infiltrated as false teachers spreading doctrine contrary to the Word of God.

He began by telling him to keep reminding the believers of what they had already been taught – meaning what they knew to be true. Without having a confident, clear understanding of God's truth it becomes very difficult to not be led astray by the personality of a false teacher. No relationships can be a priority over and above God's Word.

He reinforced the reminder with a “charge” not to get into disputes or debates with the false teachers. False teachers must correct their errors or leave. Any tolerance of their teaching has great potential to confuse and lead hearer's astray.

Further he instructed him to be diligent, zealous and eager to be approved by God as He examines how Timothy was doing in handling His Word. It is God's evaluation that is of first and primary importance.