2 Timothy 4:3

Authorized King James Version

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἔσται

G2071

will come

will be

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

καιρὸς

G2540

the time

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

ὅτε

G3753

when

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

τῆς

G3588

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

ὑγιαινούσης

G5198

sound

to have sound health, i.e., be well (in body); figuratively, to be uncorrupt (true in doctrine)

διδασκαλίας

G1319

doctrine

instruction (the function or the information)

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἀνέξονται

G430

endure

to hold oneself up against, i.e., (figuratively) put up with

#10

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#11

κατὰ

G2596

after

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

#12

τὰς

G3588

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

#13

ἐπιθυμίας

G1939

lusts

a longing (especially for what is forbidden)

#14

τὰς

G3588

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

#15

ἰδίας

G2398

their own

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

#16

ἑαυτοῖς

G1438

to themselves

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#17

ἐπισωρεύσουσιν

G2002

shall they heap

to accumulate further, i.e., (figuratively) seek additionally

#18

διδασκάλους

G1320

teachers

an instructor (genitive case or specially)

#19

κνηθόμενοι

G2833

having itching

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to tickle

#20

τὴν

G3588

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

#21

ἀκοήν

G189

ears

hearing (the act, the sense or the thing heard)

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 this verse's literary context within 2 Timothy chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?