What Does Having a Form of Godliness But Denying Its Power Mean In 2 Timothy 3:5?
2 Timothy 3:1-5 states: "But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!"
Paul states that the people who are involved in these list of sins have a form of godliness but deny its power. The word "form" can be translated "appearance." These people appear to be godly, but they do not allow true religion to have a powerful influence in their lives. A notable example is found in Acts 5:1-11. Ananias and Sapphira had the appearance of godliness in wanting to give to the church, yet they were actually dishonest. If they had allowed the powerful influence of godliness to work in their lives, they would not have been dishonest.
www.thegospelofchrist.com
This material is copyrighted by The Gospel of Christ and its authors. This information is free to use in its entirety without further consent, however, modifications should not be made without contacting mail@thegospelofchrist.com for permission. Any and all images contained herein are believed to be free for all distribution and content.