Lovers of Self?

Bible Bites

Scott Beyer
12/18/23 - Bulletin

“For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy…” (2 Timothy 3:2)

Paul warned Timothy that one of the signs of the deterioration of a society is that people will become lovers of self. Interestingly enough, the modern mantra that you must “love yourself” has become so ubiquitous that it is generally acknowledged as a basic truth that we should, at all times, love ourselves. Scriptures instead say the opposite.

There are parts of myself I believe I should not love at all, and I suspect the same is true for you. Some aspects of my character and my desires are entirely reprehensible and not deserving of love – in fact, they ought to be expunged completely. To love myself as I am assumes that there is nothing about me that is anything less than perfect, and to say that is to call God a liar (see 1 John 1:8) and nullify the cross.

There are parts of all of us which are so miserably unlovable and wretched that we should weep over them (see James 4:9). To love myself is not the answer, nor is it the philosophy to live by. I need saving. I need Jesus (see Romans 7:24-25).

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: 2 Timothy 3:1-9

Questions to ask:

How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision