2 Timothy 3:2-3
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Notice how the list of negative traits starts with "lovers of self" and "lovers of money." This isn't just a random collection of bad behaviors; it shows how internal attitudes and obsessions with possessions can directly lead to outward disrespect and a lack of thankfulness toward others and God.
For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good,
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is warning Timothy about the difficult times that will come in the last days, explaining that people will become increasingly self-centered and rebellious. This description of chaotic human behavior serves as a stark contrast to the godly life Timothy is called to live, setting the stage for Paul's instruction on sound doctrine and persevering through hardship. The verses that follow will highlight how this pervasive ungodliness will affect the church and why studying Scripture is essential for remaining steadfast.
The Bible warns about a future where people are 'lovers of self.' What does that really look like, and how can we guard against it?
The Shift from God to Self
This verse paints a stark picture of a society deeply entrenched in self-worship. "Lovers of self" isn't just about liking yourself; it's about making yourself the ultimate authority, the center of your universe. When self becomes god, our desires, comfort, and approval dictate our choices more than God's will.
The Dangers of Self-Centeredness
These aren't just random bad behaviors; they're connected. See how one sin can lead to another, creating a downward spiral.
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The Chain Reaction of Self-Love
Paul lists these traits not as isolated incidents, but as a progression of a heart that has turned away from God. It's like a domino effect.
From Within Outward
Understand the original words
philautos · Greek Adjective
Self-centeredness; an inordinate, idolatrous love for oneself that displaces love for God and others.
philargyros · Greek Adjective
The desire for material wealth that leads to corruption, greed, and a disregard for spiritual priorities.
hyperēphanos · Greek Adjective
Excessive self-esteem or hubris; looking down on others while elevating one's own status or achievements above God's standard.
anosios · Greek Adjective
A character trait marked by a lack of sacred respect or moral purity; profane or common in the sense of being alienated from God.
akratēs · Greek Adjective (negative form)
The specific gift or quality of restraint and mastery over one's own desires, impulses, and passions, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
This passage lists many similar vices, highlighting a widespread human tendency toward sinful attitudes and behaviors when people turn away from God.
Galatians 5:19-21Paul contrasts the 'acts of the flesh' with the fruit of the Spirit, and many of the traits listed here, like pride and arrogance, are clearly identified as works of the flesh.
Luke 12:15Jesus warns against greed and covetousness, directly addressing the 'lover of money' mentality described in 2 Timothy, showing that this is a timeless danger.
1 John 2:15-16John cautions believers not to love the world or the things in it, which includes the pride of life and the desires associated with self-centeredness that the passage in Timothy describes.
Notice how the list of negative traits starts with "lovers of self" and "lovers of money." This isn't just a random collection of bad behaviors; it shows how internal attitudes and obsessions with possessions can directly lead to outward disrespect and a lack of thankfulness toward others and God.
Paul is warning Timothy about the difficult times that will come in the last days, explaining that people will become increasingly self-centered and rebellious. This description of chaotic human behavior serves as a stark contrast to the godly life Timothy is called to live, setting the stage for Paul's instruction on sound doctrine and persevering through hardship. The verses that follow will highlight how this pervasive ungodliness will affect the church and why studying Scripture is essential for remaining steadfast.
Paul is warning Timothy about the difficult times that will come in the last days, explaining that people will become increasingly self-centered and rebellious. This description of chaotic human behavior serves as a stark contrast to the godly life Timothy is called to live, setting the stage for Paul's instruction on sound doctrine and persevering through hardship. The verses that follow will highlight how this pervasive ungodliness will affect the church and why studying Scripture is essential for remaining steadfast.
"For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good," — Notice how the list of negative traits starts with "lovers of self" and "lovers of money." This isn't just a random collection of bad behaviors; it shows how internal attitudes and obsessions with po…
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Last reviewed October 2026
