The Last Days
TEXT: II Timothy 3
W. Max Alderman
INTRODUCTION:
The concept of progressive evolution is not Biblical. Through the ages man’s wickedness has led him on a downward path. In these last days the proliferation of man’s wickedness and defiance against God will demand that the Godly be strong in the truth.
I. THE PATTERN OF THE LAST DAYS. (vs. 1-9)
A. It will be a time of rebellion against the truth. (vs. 1-4)
1. As a result, the days will be troublesome. (vs. 1)
2. As a result, the days will be terrible. (vs. 2-3)
B. It will be a time of rejection of the truth. (vs.5-9)
1. The rejector’s worship will be false. (vs. 5-8)
2. The rejectors wickedness will be fatal. (vs. 9)
II. THE PERSECUTION OF THE LAST DAYS. (vs. 10-13)
A. The Godly will be affected. (vs. 10-12)
1. The persecutions will be intended against the Saints. (vs. 10-11)
2. The persecutions will be intense against the Saints. (vs. 12)
B. The godless will be increased. (vs. 13)
1. The godless will be deceivers. (vs. 1 3a)
2. The godless will be deceived. (vs. 1 3b)
III. THE PREPARATION FOR THE LAST DAYS. (vs. 12-17)
A. Prepare by receiving truth for Godly wisdom. (vs. 14-15)
1. That the Saints might be secure in the last days. (vs. 14)
2. That the sinner might be saved in the last days. (vs. 15)
B. Prepare by receiving truth for good works. (vs. 16-17)
1. Truth is given for the Saint’s profit. (vs. 16)
2. Truth is given for the Saint’s perfection. (vs. 17)
CONCLUSION:
In God’s Word we have the only perfect manual for the direction of our lives. We can be prepared in these last days as we face persecution by recognizing the pattern that exists. May we be challenged to live a life "thoroughly furnished unto all good works" in these perilous times.
