A Form of Godliness
Remarkable changes have come about in these modern times we live in. Mankind has grown greatly in population, but the evils of sin have multiplied even many hundreds of times more greatly; the devil’s power is on the increase.
Even while I was growing up, the golden rule was widely being taught to most children; not merely the offspring of true Christian believers. That rule is, of course, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”—Matthew 7:12.
Needless to say, things have changed. It is often disheartening to encounter the attitudes we are seeing today, but we need to remember that the Bible has foretold us that such would come about. Recognizing this helps us to understand the time period we are in, also.
As we live in the midst of this corruption, it is regrettable but true that we (the true church—John 4:23) will also become tainted—we are still alive in the flesh, and our “natural man” is very susceptible to the seduction of sin…
In Revelation chapters 2 & 3, seven types of “churches” are spoken to. To be truthful, the last of these seven listed was not addressed as a church—but as a people. Each of the others were addressed by, “unto the angel of the church…of Ephesus…in Smyrna…in Pergamos…in Thyatira…in Sardis…in Philadelphia.” The last one is spoken to differently by stating, “…the church of the Laodiceans”; it does not say, “the church in Laodicea. Hence, the focus of the last is on the Laodiceans themselves; rather than being focused on the church in the city. The question is, why? I believe the answer is very significant…
The reason this “church” was addressed in this way, is that its members were indistinguishable from the world (city) around them. This should be a stern realization for us today. At least in America, the organized churches in general pride themselves on being as much like the world as possible! As we examine the characteristics of “last days” humanity, we should ask the Lord to reveal any of the ways in which these corruptions have infected us (Psalms 139:23,24), and submit it to Him for change. It is easy to be swept up in the tide! We are to be holy, as our God is holy (Matthew 5:48, I Peter 1:16).
At the turning point of my life, I desperately searched for the truth through God’s Word, and clung to it tightly (John 17:17). While persevering in this way, I came to see that Satan had a major foothold among professing believers through the revised translations of the Bible; that the King James Bible stands altogether alone as the perfect Word of God (see our Word of God section).
Still then seeking fellowship among other members of the body of Christ (I Corinthians 12), I sought a church that honored the King James Bible; and which taught from its authority alone…
Thankfully, I did find a few churches like this. In my area, most Baptist churches had recognized the Bible version issue; and the authority of the KJV…
Yet even within these proponents of truth, another great evil had come to the forefront; that of ungodly Dispensationalism. It was perplexing to me at first—but even that confusion was due to holding an undue respect of persons toward those who taught this doctrine. In all of my study in the Bible, with such a dependence on it, why had I never even remotely glimpsed the dispensational “truths” that these churches were promoting? The simple truth is, that if the Bible isn’t saying it, it is not a doctrine of the Lord. In a nutshell, here are some of the teachings that usually accompany Dispensationalism: eternal security; a rejection of Christ’s power to perform miracles through His body; the seven church “ages” of Revelation; denial of the Old Testament for application in a believer’s life; the “any-moment” rapture of the church, prior to the tribulation period; and the denial of large portions of God’s Word as being meaningful to us currently, today (such as the entire books of Matthew, and Hebrews for some. Please see our article on Dispensationalism). The problem with all of these false doctrines is that they have been arrived at by the reasoning of men; not arrived at by the actual direction of God’s Word. In fact, most Dispensationalism is based upon the “insights” of Cyrus Scofield; these being found within the pages of the Scofield Reference Bible, which have now been handed down over the last 100 years…
It was disheartening to discover that those who yet held the truth in their hands (KJV) were also discontent with its teachings; those that were directly provided through the Holy Ghost.
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. II Peter 1:20,21
Other instances of such “forms of godliness” are also greatly flourishing in these last days. As the Lord has currently called my wife and I to serve here in our neighborhood, we have met many who have become disillusioned with the organized churches. At first, we thought that we might be encountering those who were like-minded with ourselves concerning this issue…
Such was not the case, however. The stand we have taken has always been in regard to Godly obedience through true Biblical teachings, and by the leading of the Holy Spirit. For the discontented ones that we were meeting, however, it was more about each individual’s feelings and preferences, than about what is being true to our Savior and Lord. We saw in these lives no hunger for God, no belief in His power, great delusions, complacent self-satisfaction, and simply a rebellious attitude toward all authority. Without exception, every one of these had some type of professed faith in God; a belief, yes—but the new life that results from a true saving relationship with Christ was missing. “…the devils also believe, and tremble.”—James 2:19.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12
As we proceed in looking at these characteristics which you may encounter, remember that this evil deception is ultimately from the devil. Do not allow anger and bitterness to reside within you toward any individual—our ability to see more clearly is a blessing which comes from salvation by Jesus Christ! Without this, we are just as blind, and prone to error. But you also shouldn’t spend a lot of time in confusion, trying to “figure out” why someone behaves a certain way. The Word of God tells us it is a spiritual condition.
Remember to consider these carefully, prayerfully, lest one or more of these evils should have a foothold within you. Many of these characteristics are closely synonymous, so please be patient. Our main passage of focus is taken from II Timothy 3:1-5.
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. II Timothy 3:1-5
Definitions are mostly taken from Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary.
Verse 1: We find here the key phrase for describing the time frame, “in the last days.” These will be perilous times; meaning that these days will be full of risk and involve danger.
Verse 2: Lovers of their own selves. In truth, this phrase could be the theme of all the listed character traits found here. That is to say, that while not everyone will exhibit all of the remaining traits listed here, each of these traits comes about as a result of self-love. Mankind will be generally disposed, individually, to act in ways which primarily benefit each individual person. Even actions that may seem outwardly selfless, will often have a hidden, selfish, ulterior motive behind them.
Covetous: This describes an earnest desire to obtain something we don’t currently possess. Whether it be money, fashionable clothes, satisfying appetites, etc. To covet is really an extreme desire. It would be holding created things in greater esteem than our creator.
Boasters: In short, this is bragging. A verbally prideful expression concerning something one possesses, or an ability, or in a recognition given by others. Many times it also comes from a sense of superiority over another person.
Proud: To boast will exhibit an inner pride—but not everyone who is proud will be outwardly boastful. Proud means to be pleased with one’s self; possibly in appearance, possessions, the intellect or understanding. The extremely proud seldom, if ever, admit to mistakes or being wrong. “An unreasonably high conception of one’s own excellence of body or mind.”
Blasphemers: “To revile or speak reproachfully of God or anything sacred.” Any stated doctrine that sharply contradicts the teachings in God’s Word. Blasphemers are still often religious.
Disobedient to parents: Yes, all children are this at times. But to list this among “last days” character traits shows that during this time it is rampant. It is the rule, not the exception. Parents are disciplining their children less and less, with many laws actually being created which prevent parents from curbing unruly behavior.
Unthankful: No gratitude or appreciation is felt or expressed toward parents, teachers, or God. There is more of a sense that things “belong to me”, and are “my right” to have.
Unholy: This could describe what is directly wicked; but it also shows a casual irreverence toward the things/actions of which God approves. “Every man did what is right in his own eyes.”—Judges 21:25
Without natural affection: You will find this term cross-referenced in Romans 1:26,27,31 (which will be covered later). As you can see from the context of Romans, this plainly describes homosexuality; especially in verses 26 and 27.
Homosexuality is a curse which is sweeping America. State by state, homosexuals are gaining equality in marriage with the God ordained, male-female relationship (Matthew 19:4,5). Historically as well as Biblically, nations/empires embracing homosexuality collapse shortly after doing so!
Yet “without natural affections” can mean more than this. It can mean parents and children not loving each other, or when people love others or things to an unhealthy level (such as music, sports, or loving another merely for physical pleasure). These things are also idolatry, and must be repented of and put away.
Trucebreakers: Normally one would consider a truce to be an agreed upon ceasing of hostilities between opposing countries and their armies. This is very true today.
Yet it could also be applied to disputes at work, or between individuals. Agreeing to a truce means that both parties have compromised their stance somewhat; people today are too much the “lovers of their own selves” to be content with such a state of things for long! Trucebreakers can rightly be called liars.
False Accusers: Misery loves company, so the devil and his children become angered by righteous lives; and those attempting to live them. We children of the light are extremely few and far between, and we can expect much in the way of false accusation to exponentially increase toward us, here at the end of time as we have known it. Simply more lies, from Satan’s children. The Bible warns us of this in other places, as well.
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. I Peter 2:11,12
Incontinent: Not restraining the passions or appetites; uncontrolled indulgence. This term often is used in reference to sexual self-control, but it could also refer to eating, or really any lack of self-restraint when indulging in any type of pleasure.
Fierce: To be savage, furious; of a violently cruel nature. This characteristic is usually hidden for the most part; coming out mainly when others are critical of their self-serving nature, or when they cannot have their way in things. With a very few, it is obviously at the forefront of their personality, but legal statutes greatly hinder its expression.
Despisers of those that are good: Honesty, integrity in behavior is often held in contempt. Mankind generally believes these noble qualities to be subjective (up to the individual), and should often be laid aside to bring about a “greater good”. Man’s sinful nature rebels against God, and those who try to live righteously for Him. In John chapters 11 & 12, we find the miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. While this did cause many to believe, it also caused resentment among the religious leaders—they then were seeking to kill both Jesus and Lazarus, in order to silence this miracle!
But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. John 15:25
Traitors: Simply put, this is betrayal. In any close relationship that would tend to imply loyalty, people will routinely betray one another for self-serving reasons. This trait is inferred also in Jesus’ words from Mark 13:12;
Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. Mark 13:12
Heady: By definition, this means to be rash, or hasty. Someone that is disposed to rush forward in a matter without thinking or considering. So many times I encounter this, today! Individuals doing as they “feel” (Jeremiah 17:9), proudly declaring that they “fly by the seat of their pants.” Contrary to this, true Christianity is about giving up your rights; it is “to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow the Lord Jesus Christ! We are to, “consider the cost”—from Luke 14:28.
High Minded: Mostly considered as pride, or arrogance. Many today feel like they already know all that they need to with regard to most subjects. The Bible says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”—from Hosea 4:6.
The internet also makes people feel like they can quickly learn anything; even though all information is brought forth from an all too human resource—and it denies the value of direct, personal study and experience. This character trait has found a comfortable home within the organized churches of these last days.
Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God: We are warned of succumbing to this, especially in the last days. Professing believers of today are, in general, self-indulgent to the extreme; indistinguishable from the world around them. They make provision to fulfill the lusts of the flesh (Romans 13:14); do not daily crucify the flesh (Luke 9:23); are fully in love with life here on earth (John 12:25); and never bring their bodies’ under subjection (I Corinthians 9:27); unless perhaps, a doctor orders it! Let us take seriously our savior’s warning about indulgence in these last days;
And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. Luke 21:34-36
Even with all these negative characteristics listed here (there are 18), they are still being described in those who have a form of godliness. In other words they are religious; believing in a supernatural God, content in their understanding of Him, satisfied that their lives are “good enough” to qualify for heaven. These forms (false religion; other gospels) of godliness deny the power of the living God, being clearly contrary to the doctrines of the written Word (KJV only: word changes in other versions often destroy core doctrines, or put them in doubt).
No matter how respected these people are, no matter how successful or educated in the eyes of men, we must turn away from them to follow the true, living God.
This is an important time in history for the Lord to address with us. Various other passages also refer to what we will encounter in these last days. The big signs and wonders are important, but these human characteristics we may encounter almost every day. Let’s look at some of these for comparison’s sake, starting with what our Lord directly referred to in the gospels…
First and foremost, spiritual deception will be widespread. This is also verified within II Timothy 3, but later in verse 13; “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.”
When Jesus was asked (by His disciples) about the signs of His coming, and the end of the world, the first words He responded with were, “Take heed that no man deceive you.”—Matthew 24:4, Mark 13:5. Then Jesus declared that many would come in His name, claiming to be Christ. This is a key part of new age teaching; that each person is actually a part of God already, and we just haven’t seen it yet! So there really are very many, right now, who are claiming to be a “Christ”—because they believe they are really one with God.
Continuing on in Matthew 24, I ask that you follow along in your King James Bible.
Verse 9: Remember, this answer was being directed to Jesus’ disciples. He is telling them that they will be hated and persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ. We also know that all true Christians will be persecuted (Acts 14:22, II Timothy 3:12); so if you observe some “blessed” churches that appear to be thriving without persecution, you can know that something is very wrong, spiritually.
Verse 10: Betrayal among even friends and family, and hatred, shall be hallmarks of this time.
Verse 11: A direct warning about false prophets; this would tend to refer to the leaders of churches or denominations, as well as other religious faiths.
Verse 12: Because sin, or evil (iniquity) are abounding, the legitimate love of many shall grow cold. In other words, our sensitivity will be lost because we encounter sin so often.
Verse 24: Yet another warning of deception! In this warning, Jesus is telling us that these false “Christs” or “prophets” shall perform signs and wonders in their efforts to deceive (Revelation 13:13,14). Today, many simply embrace as Godly any works that are supernatural in nature. Jesus warned us ahead of time (Matthew 24:25), so use discernment; holding up each occurrence to the light of God’s Word (John 3:20,21).
Mark 13:3-30 provides a nearly identical listing to that found in Matthew 24, yet is more specifically descriptive in the issues of persecution and betrayal. Please read through this account when you can; for brevity’s sake, I will not go over it in this article.
The book of Luke splits the last days account into several parts, and gives some additional insights. In Luke 17:25 we read that Jesus Christ will be rejected by this last generation. Even at a time when religions, and “Christs” are flourishing! The Bible tells us who Jesus is, what He expects, and how His followers are to conduct themselves regarding His testimony. Anything beyond this is another gospel, and is accursed (Galatians 1:6-9).
Verses 26-29: We are told that these days will be like it was in the days of Noah, or Lot (see Genesis chapters 6 and 19). People were conducting their business as usual, as if their lives would continue indefinitely; yet destruction was swift to follow, even that same day. Do not expect that you will find many who will acknowledge that the end is near, or live like they believe it! It is a spiritual slumber that is enveloping the world.
Luke 21:26: Great fears will overtake mankind, as they encounter the many plagues which are coming upon the earth. The news media, as well as movies, especially like to play upon the fears of men. It is really a great comfort to trust in the Lord!
And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. Luke 21:28
More prophecy is revealed through Paul in Romans 1:21-32, and it is well descriptive of these times, though not directly referenced as “last days.”
Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Luke 1:21-32
Verses 21-23: My thoughts here are that these verses refer to the false religions of evolution, and pantheism. Evolution claims to be science, but it is really a faith which denies the findings of science (I Timothy 6:20). Pantheism is the belief that all is a part of God, and that we are only separated because of our current understanding. Both of these ideologies change the glory of the uncorruptible God into something base, and common.
Verses 24-27: So what is the result of this changed perception of God? The outbreak of all types of sexual perversion; homosexuality being specifically addressed in verses 26 and 27. We see those practicing this “vile affection” now demanding equal rights and fair treatment.
And now we come to a new list of bad qualities in the remaining verses here. It is important to see what has led to these vile conditions among mankind. After great striving with mankind, God finally gives up in His outreach! It is a terrible reality to consider (Hebrews 2:3).
II Peter 3:9 declares to us the long-suffering of God; that He is willing that all men should come to repentance. But we see that by this time in history, mankind should already have plainly seen who God is; seeing Him so clearly, that we are without excuse (Romans 1:19,20). After this, we are told 3 times of God’s “giving up.” In verse 24 He gives them up to uncleanness; in verse 26 He is giving them up to vile affection; and in verse 28, they are given over to a reprobate (rejected by God) mind. In other words, mankind has been given up to sin—God has ceased to reach out to them for repentance.
Filled with all unrighteousness: It is easy to think of this trait in regard to overtly wicked people. But this description is of mankind in general, not just a few individuals.
This is my own opinion, but I think of it this way; that the Bible has ceased to be the guideline for behavior. What a person will do in any given situation is determined by what they think will work, and how they “feel” about it; in achieving what is best for them. There could be compromises of theft, lying, or even in taking revenge. If one’s actions are actually in compliance with the Bible, it will not be because God’s Word was consulted for direction! It will be that the Bible just happened (luckily) to agree with what the person chose to do!
Fornication: Any sexual relationship outside of marriage; this proper union being always between a male and female (Matthew 19:4,5).
Wickedness: So much does this fill them, that wrongs becomes right. These are not small compromises with evil, but an embracing of evil as the right thing to do.
Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Isaiah 5:20
Covetousness: Previously mentioned in the II Timothy 3 list.
Maliciousness: This is to be hateful, spiteful; hoping that bad things will happen to certain people. We have seen this happen, even among professing believers—it is a sign of the times.
Full of envy: While coveting could apply to anything desired that one does not have, envy more specifically applies to wanting what someone else has; such as a spouse, a house, beautiful hair, clothes, or a job (Luke 12:15).
Murder: The individual murders that we hear of are limited. But there are also mass murders that take place through governments. Many corrupt policies directly lead to the deaths of millions; of which abortion is likely the best known, and most noticeable.
Debate: Arguing over truth; contending so that there will be no standard of right and wrong. This is self-love, and self-justification.
Deceit: Deception can be very subtle, and we see it regularly in even the sales tactics of businesses. As Christians, we must endeavor not to be deceptive in our dealings with others.
Malignity: “An intense ill will to harm others.” Is this not at the root of mass murders?
Whisperers: These are gossips; sharing secrets which should have been kept in trust. This action is usually done to intentionally provoke a response.
Backbiters: This is to slander, speaking poorly of a person who is not present to respond. It is a common tactic today.
Haters of God: Such a description doesn’t really imply a disbelief in God—but an actual contempt. They hate God, the idea of God, codes of moral conduct to live by, and the prospect of answering to anyone for the life they’ve lived. These people would necessarily also hate those who serve God truly.
Despiteful: You will find maliciousness to be close synonym.
Proud: Seen also in our II Timothy 3 passage; it is a strong source of emphasis in overall Biblical teaching.
Boasters: Listed also in II Timothy 3.
Inventors of evil things: This covers a lot of ground. It could include all the cunningly devised weapons for killing, but also devices that are presented as good things. Television, GPS tracking units, and the internet could all fall into this category. While some good possibly comes forth from these, there is far more evil.
Disobedient to parents: Already previously listed.
Without understanding: Being heady would naturally lead to being without understanding. Most things are taken at face value for being as they claim or appear, without questioning or close examination. God wants us to understand, and to “prove all things.—I Thessalonians 5:21.
Covenantbreakers: A covenant is an agreement between two or more parties to do, or not to do something; it is a contract, though some may be only verbal. For example, one business may agree to carry another’s product in exchange for advertising. Or a distributor may offer you a low price on supplies, provided you buy only from them. Today’s world finds covenant breaking to be commonplace. Self interest is almost exclusively the motivator, and any benefit to one’s self is seen to be a “legitimate” reason to break the agreement. Brethren, we must now behave this way!
Without natural affection: Seen in list from II Timothy 3, and in Romans 1.
Implacable: These will not be pacified, or make peace. It would be the type of person/group that demand “justice,” but will keep on demanding, no matter what concessions have been made. Even those who will not accept a simple, sincere apology fall under this character trait.
Unmerciful: This type will just not give anyone a break! They have no mercy; as if they, themselves, make no mistakes. Even for very small infractions, full punishment would be pursued. Unmerciful would have close ties in practice with the traits of fierce, and implacable.
Pleasure in the wicked: Misery really does love company, and so it is here. Many times a “bond” is felt (partners in crime!) between like-minded sinners! The fact that someone else has fallen in the same way, somehow brings comfort and justification; perhaps even the conceited thought, “I’m not so bad after all!”
Brethren, what television shows do you watch? Be careful; are you having pleasure in the wicked? And if you would not act in such ways, and know that the Lord condemns it, why are you watching? “…come out from among them, and be ye separate…touch not the unclean thing…”—see II Corinthians 6:17
Many times, it is hard to understand what we are seeing in human behavior. But when you study God’s Word, and can see that it was prophetically forecasted, a solemn comfort should arise within you. The time we live in becomes clear; our redemption is nigh at hand!
The descriptions we have been given concerning this behavior is not meant merely so that we can “grin, and bear it.” It is also a warning not to become that way! We simply cannot help being infected with these things, to a certain extent. We must spend time in prayer, asking God to search our hearts in rooting out what is unrighteous. Time is short, and we must be about our Father’s business. May the Lord bless you, in applying these truths to your lives.
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalms 19:12-14
WARNING: To avoid Satan’s snares and deceptions, return to the pure Word of God; which is the King James Bible. Revised translations are not small word alterations meant to bring clarity! Major doctrinal changes have occurred, which will tend to bring doubt and destroy your faith. To follow these new “versions” of the truth, is to build your spiritual house upon sand, and become as the ones reflected in Matthew 7:21-23. Please use this entire passage, Matthew 7:21-27.
Satan means to deceive you into sincerely following his alternate “truth.” You are really being set up to fall, and serve the antichrist.
Pray and seek God diligently in this matter; for time is short. See also our Word of God section and the section on A Sure Salvation vs. Eternal Security.