who are always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Ever learning--some new point, for mere curiosity, to the disparagement of what they seemed to know before. the knowledge--Greek, "the perfect knowledge"; the only safeguard against further novelties. Gnosticism laid hold especially of the female sex [ESTIUS, 1.13.3]: so Roman Jesuitism.
Paul tells Timothy the Church will face terrible diseases that demand uncommon fidelity and watchfulness from her pastors. When all goes well we grow careless; but necessity sharpens us. He prepares Timothy for arduous work ahead.
AI summary
Commenting on 2 Timothy 3:1-17
Gospel times will bring perilous times not chiefly from persecution outside but from corruption within, from those with the form of godliness who are inwardly wicked. Two traitors in the garrison do more damage than two thousand enemies at the gates.
AI summary
Commenting on 2 Timothy 3:1-9