2 Timothy 3:13

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

Word-by-Word Analysis

πονηροὶ

G4190

evil

hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

ἄνθρωποι

G444

men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

γόητες

G1114

seducers

properly, a wizard (as muttering spells), i.e., (by implication) an imposter

προκόψουσιν

G4298

shall wax

to drive forward (as if by beating), i.e., (figuratively and intransitively) to advance (in amount, to grow; in time, to be well along)

ἐπὶ

G1909

worse and worse

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

χεῖρον

G5501

from an obsolete equivalent ????? (of uncertain derivation); more evil or aggravated (physically, mentally or morally)

#10

πλανώμενοι

G4105

being deceived

to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#12

πλανώμενοι

G4105

being deceived

to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Timothy. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within 2 Timothy chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?