Behavior of Unbelievers in the Church Part 1

Paul's burden was for Timothy and the Church to remain faithful to God and His Word. He wrote knowing that the spiritual condition of the world would only worsen making it all the more difficult to carry on the ministry as God intends.

He called for Timothy, and all who will follow him in the ministry of the Word, to realize that unbelievers have infiltrated the Church creating troubling and dangerous times. He emphasized the need for awareness by pointing out eighteen characteristics of their ungodly behavior. With these duly noted, the counterfeits become identifiable and are then to be avoided.

Paul began the list by pointing out that these people love themselves and their money. They are primarily concerned with themselves, what pleases them, and perceive the world as revolving around them. It is impossible to love God with this kind of self-consuming love. He goes on to point out they are arrogant and it manifests itself in their relationships where they continue to hold themselves in highest regard. Ingratitude will also be consistent in their attitude as they are convinced they deserve more, or better, than what they have.

These characteristics should be totally incompatible with that of the genuine believer in the Church. The warning to avoid these people must be taken seriously by all in the Church so their behavior isn't given an opportunity to be an ungodly influence on the believer's attitude, character and conduct.