heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good,
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul lists qualities that, at first glance, seem to describe utterly lost people. But notice that "not loving good" comes last—it’s the ultimate consequence, not the initial cause, suggesting that the loss of love for what's truly good is what opens the door to all the other destructive traits. This isn't just about outward bad behavior; it's about a fundamental shift in what the heart desires.
heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good,
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is describing the "terrible times" that will come in the last days, painting a stark picture of a society marked by self-centeredness and a rejection of all that is good. This detailed list of negative character traits follows his explanation of how people will be lovers of self and money, and precedes his warning that such individuals will be both deceivers and will face divine judgment.
Paul doesn't just give a passing description here. He lists traits that paint a stark picture of humanity untethered from divine love.
A Mirror to the World
Paul lays out a series of harsh characteristics in 2 Timothy 3:3. These aren't minor flaws; they're deeply ingrained attitudes and behaviors that demonstrate a profound disconnect from God's way.
These traits collectively describe people who are spiritually and morally bankrupt, living out the consequences of rejecting God's transforming power.
Paul's final point here isn't just a lack of something bad, but a specific turning from something profoundly good.
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The Opposite of God's Nature
The phrase 'not loving good' is incredibly significant. It doesn't just mean they aren't doing good things; it means they actively dislike and reject goodness itself.
Think about it: we're naturally drawn to what is pleasant, helpful, and right. But when people are described as 'not loving good,' it implies a twisted moral compass. They find goodness unappealing, perhaps even repulsive. This is a deep-seated rebellion against the very character of God, who is Goodness.
This aversion to good paves the way for all the other destructive behaviors listed. If you don't love what is right and pure, you're open to embracing cruelty, deceit, and selfishness.
Understand the original words
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 and destructive behaviors, showing a pattern of ungodliness that estranges people from God and each other.
Galatians 5:19-21It directly contrasts the 'works of the flesh' with the fruit of the Spirit, highlighting the destructive nature of the very character traits described in 2 Timothy 3:3.
Matthew 7:15-20Jesus warns about false prophets who come in sheep's clothing but are inwardly ravenous wolves, describing a deceptive outward appearance that masks a brutal and unloving inner nature.
Ephesians 4:31-32This passage calls believers to put away bitterness, rage, and malice, and instead be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving, directly addressing the opposite qualities found in 2 Timothy 3:3.
Paul lists qualities that, at first glance, seem to describe utterly lost people. But notice that "not loving good" comes last—it’s the ultimate consequence, not the initial cause, suggesting that the loss of love for what's truly good is what opens the door to all the other destructive traits. This isn't just about outward bad behavior; it's about a fundamental shift in what the heart desires.
Paul is describing the "terrible times" that will come in the last days, painting a stark picture of a society marked by self-centeredness and a rejection of all that is good. This detailed list of negative character traits follows his explanation of how people will be lovers of self and money, and precedes his warning that such individuals will be both deceivers and will face divine judgment.
Paul is describing the "terrible times" that will come in the last days, painting a stark picture of a society marked by self-centeredness and a rejection of all that is good. This detailed list of negative character traits follows his explanation of how people will be lovers of self and money, and precedes his warning that such individuals will be both deceivers and will face divine judgment.
"heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good," — Paul lists qualities that, at first glance, seem to describe utterly lost people. But notice that "not loving good" comes last—it’s the ultimate consequence, not the initial cause, suggesting that…
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Last reviewed October 2026