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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_timothy/4-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/13/55_2Ti_04_03.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Timothy 4:3 - Preach the Word" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script> <script src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/biblehub.js' type='text/javascript'></script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_timothy/4-3.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_timothy/4-3.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_timothy/">2 Timothy</a> > <a href="/2_timothy/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 3</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm" title="2 Timothy 4:2">◄</a> 2 Timothy 4:3 <a href="/2_timothy/4-4.htm" title="2 Timothy 4:4">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Study Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Crossref </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comment </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_timothy/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_timothy/4.htm">New International Version</a> For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. <a href="/nlt/2_timothy/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. <a href="/esv/2_timothy/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, <a href="/bsb/2_timothy/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. <a href="/blb/2_timothy/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For there will be a time when they will not endure sound teaching, but according to the own desires, having an itching ear, they will gather around them teachers to suit themselves, <a href="/kjv/2_timothy/4.htm">King James Bible</a> 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; <a href="/nkjv/2_timothy/4.htm">New King James Version</a> For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; <a href="/nasb_/2_timothy/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires, <a href="/nasb/2_timothy/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, <a href="/nasb77/2_timothy/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires; <a href="/lsb/2_timothy/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, <a href="/amp/2_timothy/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine and accurate instruction [that challenges them with God’s truth]; but wanting to have their ears tickled [with something pleasing], they will accumulate for themselves [many] teachers [one after another, chosen] to satisfy their own desires and to support the errors they hold, <a href="/csb/2_timothy/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear what they want to hear. <a href="/hcsb/2_timothy/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear something new. <a href="/asv/2_timothy/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> For the time will come when they will not endure the sound doctrine; but, having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts; <a href="/cev/2_timothy/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The time is coming when people won't listen to good teaching. Instead, they will look for teachers who will please them by telling them only what they are itching to hear. <a href="/erv/2_timothy/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> For the time will come when they will not endure the sound doctrine; but, having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts; <a href="/gwt/2_timothy/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> A time will come when people will not listen to accurate teachings. Instead, they will follow their own desires and surround themselves with teachers who tell them what they want to hear. <a href="/gnt/2_timothy/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> The time will come when people will not listen to sound doctrine, but will follow their own desires and will collect for themselves more and more teachers who will tell them what they are itching to hear. <a href="/isv/2_timothy/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> For the time will come when people will not tolerate healthy doctrine, but with itching ears will surround themselves with teachers who cater to their people's own desires. <a href="/msb/2_timothy/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. <a href="/net/2_timothy/4.htm">NET Bible</a> For there will be a time when people will not tolerate sound teaching. Instead, following their own desires, they will accumulate teachers for themselves, because they have an insatiable curiosity to hear new things. <a href="/nheb/2_timothy/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For the time will come when they will not listen to the sound doctrine, but, having itching ears, will heap up for themselves teachers after their own lusts; <a href="/wbt/2_timothy/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For the time will come, when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts will they multiply to themselves teachers, having itching ears; <a href="/wey/2_timothy/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For a time is coming when they will not tolerate wholesome instruction, but, wanting to have their ears tickled, they will find a multitude of teachers to satisfy their own fancies; <a href="/web/2_timothy/4.htm">World English Bible</a> For the time will come when they will not listen to the sound doctrine, but having itching ears, will heap up for themselves teachers after their own lusts, <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_timothy/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for there will be a season when they will not endure the sound teaching, but they will heap up teachers according to their own desires—having an itching ear, <a href="/blb/2_timothy/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For there will be a time when they will not endure sound teaching, but according to the own desires, having an itching ear, they will gather around them teachers to suit themselves, <a href="/ylt/2_timothy/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for there shall be a season when the sound teaching they will not suffer, but according to their own desires to themselves they shall heap up teachers -- itching in the hearing, <a href="/slt/2_timothy/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For the time will be when they will not hear sound doctrine; but according to their own eager desires they will heap up to themselves teachers, feeling itchings for a report;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_timothy/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For there shall be a time, when they will not endure sound doctrine; but, according to their own desires, they will heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears: <a href="/cpdv/2_timothy/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For there shall be a time when they will not endure sound doctrine, but instead, according to their own desires, they will gather to themselves teachers, with itching ears, <a href="/nabre/2_timothy/4.htm">New American Bible</a> For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine but, following their own desires and insatiable curiosity, will accumulate teachers <a href="/nrsvce/2_timothy/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For the time is coming when people will not put up with sound doctrine, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own desires,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_timothy/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For the time will come when men will not listen to sound doctrine; but they will add for themselves extra teachers according to their desires, being lured by enticing words; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_timothy/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For there will be a time when they will not obey sound teaching, but they will multiply teachers to themselves, according to their desires, and with an itching of their sense of hearing,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_timothy/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For the time will come when they will not endure sound teaching, but according to their own desires they will procure for themselves an abundance of teachers to gratify their itching ears: <a href="/godbey/2_timothy/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For the time will come when they will not endure healthy teaching; but according to their own lusts they will heap to themselves teachers itching as to their hearing; <a href="/haweis/2_timothy/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own inclinations will set up a herd of teachers for themselves, having the itch of hearing; <a href="/mace/2_timothy/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for the time will come, when they will not endure sound doctrine, but get teachers of their own corrupt taste, to sooth their ears that itch for flattery: <a href="/wey/2_timothy/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For a time is coming when they will not tolerate wholesome instruction, but, wanting to have their ears tickled, they will find a multitude of teachers to satisfy their own fancies; <a href="/worrell/2_timothy/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For there will be a time when they will not endure the healthful teaching; but, having itching ears, they will for themselves heap up teachers according to their own desires; <a href="/worsley/2_timothy/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For the time will come, when they will not bear sound doctrine; but having itching ears, will heap up to themselves teachers after their own hearts: <a href="/parallel/2_timothy/4-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FxoCLii8Z48?start=584" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_timothy/4.htm">Preach the Word</a> …2Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and encourage with every form of patient instruction. 3<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/2540.htm" title="2540: kairos (N-NMS) -- Fitting season, season, opportunity, occasion, time. Of uncertain affinity; an occasion, i.e. Set or proper time.">the time</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: Estai (V-FIM-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">will come</a> <a href="/greek/3753.htm" title="3753: hote (Adv) -- When, at which time. From hos and te; at which too, i.e. When.">when</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/430.htm" title="430: anexontai (V-FIM-3P) -- To endure, bear with, have patience with, suffer, admit, persist. ">men will not tolerate</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5198.htm" title="5198: hygiainousēs (V-PPA-GFS) -- From hugies; to have sound health, i.e. Be well; figuratively, to be uncorrupt.">sound</a> <a href="/greek/1319.htm" title="1319: didaskalias (N-GFS) -- Instruction, teaching. From didaskalos; instruction.">doctrine,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2833.htm" title="2833: knēthomenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- To rub, tickle, scratch; pass: I itch. From a primary knao; to scratch, i.e. to tickle.">with itching</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/189.htm" title="189: akoēn (N-AFS) -- Hearing, faculty of hearing, ear; report, rumor. From akouo; hearing.">ears</a> <a href="/greek/2002.htm" title="2002: episōreusousin (V-FIA-3P) -- To heap up, obtain a multitude of. From epi and soreuo; to accumulate further, i.e. seek additionally.">they will gather around</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautois (RefPro-DM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">themselves</a> <a href="/greek/1320.htm" title="1320: didaskalous (N-AMP) -- A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor.">teachers</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">to suit</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tas (Art-AFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">their</a> <a href="/greek/2398.htm" title="2398: idias (Adj-AFP) -- Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate.">own</a> <a href="/greek/1939.htm" title="1939: epithymias (N-AFP) -- Desire, eagerness for, inordinate desire, lust. From epithumeo; a longing.">desires.</a> 4So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_timothy/3-1.htm">2 Timothy 3:1-5</a> But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. / For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, / unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, ... <a href="/1_timothy/4-1.htm">1 Timothy 4:1-2</a> Now the Spirit expressly states that in later times some will abandon the faith to follow deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, / influenced by the hypocrisy of liars, whose consciences are seared with a hot iron. <a href="/titus/1-10.htm">Titus 1:10-11</a> For many are rebellious and full of empty talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision, / who must be silenced. For the sake of dishonorable gain, they undermine entire households and teach things they should not. <a href="/2_peter/2-1.htm">2 Peter 2:1-3</a> Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. / Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. / In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep. <a href="/matthew/24-11.htm">Matthew 24:11-12</a> and many false prophets will arise and deceive many. / Because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. <a href="/acts/20-29.htm">Acts 20:29-30</a> I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. / Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them. <a href="/romans/16-17.htm">Romans 16:17-18</a> Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them. / For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/1_john/4-1.htm">1 John 4:1</a> Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world. <a href="/jude/1-17.htm">Jude 1:17-19</a> But you, beloved, remember what was foretold by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ / when they said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow after their own ungodly desires.” / These are the ones who cause divisions, who are worldly and devoid of the Spirit. <a href="/jeremiah/5-30.htm">Jeremiah 5:30-31</a> A horrible and shocking thing has happened in the land. / The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own authority. My people love it so, but what will you do in the end? <a href="/isaiah/30-9.htm">Isaiah 30:9-10</a> These are rebellious people, deceitful children, children unwilling to obey the LORD’s instruction. / They say to the seers, “Stop seeing visions!” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us the truth! Speak to us pleasant words; prophesy illusions. <a href="/ezekiel/33-30.htm">Ezekiel 33:30-32</a> As for you, son of man, your people are talking about you near the city walls and in the doorways of their houses. One speaks to another, each saying to his brother, ‘Come and hear the message that has come from the LORD!’ / So My people come to you as usual, sit before you, and hear your words; but they do not put them into practice. Although they express love with their mouths, their hearts pursue dishonest gain. / Indeed, you are to them like a singer of love songs with a beautiful voice, who skillfully plays an instrument. They hear your words but do not put them into practice. <a href="/amos/8-11.htm">Amos 8:11-12</a> Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord GOD, when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD. / People will stagger from sea to sea and roam from north to east, seeking the word of the LORD, but they will not find it. <a href="/micah/2-11.htm">Micah 2:11</a> If a man of wind were to come and say falsely, “I will preach to you of wine and strong drink,” he would be just the preacher for this people! <a href="/zechariah/7-11.htm">Zechariah 7:11-12</a> But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder; they stopped up their ears from hearing. / They made their hearts like flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the LORD of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets. Therefore great anger came from the LORD of Hosts.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>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;the time.<a href="/2_timothy/3-1.htm">2 Timothy 3:1-6</a> This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come… <a href="/1_timothy/4-1.htm">1 Timothy 4:1-3</a> Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; … they will.<a href="/1_kings/22-8.htm">1 Kings 22:8,18</a> And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may inquire of the LORD: but I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so… <a href="/2_chronicles/16-9.htm">2 Chronicles 16:9,10</a> For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars… <a href="/2_chronicles/24-20.htm">2 Chronicles 24:20-22</a> And the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest, which stood above the people, and said unto them, Thus saith God, Why transgress ye the commandments of the LORD, that ye cannot prosper? because ye have forsaken the LORD, he hath also forsaken you… sound.<a href="/1_timothy/1-10.htm">1 Timothy 1:10</a> For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;but.<a href="/2_timothy/3-6.htm">2 Timothy 3:6</a> For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,<a href="/1_kings/18-22.htm">1 Kings 18:22</a> Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men.<a href="/2_chronicles/18-4.htm">2 Chronicles 18:4,5</a> And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Inquire, I pray thee, at the word of the LORD to day… having.<a href="/exodus/32-33.htm">Exodus 32:33</a> And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.<a href="/acts/17-21.htm">Acts 17:21</a> (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)<a href="/1_corinthians/2-1.htm">1 Corinthians 2:1,4</a> And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_timothy/1-9.htm">Accordance</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-17.htm">Accumulate</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-8.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-6.htm">Desires</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">Doctrine</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-11.htm">Ears</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-12.htm">Endure</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-18.htm">Find</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-10.htm">Gather</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">Great</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-16.htm">Heap</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-2.htm">Hearing</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-4.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-16.htm">Instruction</a> <a href="/leviticus/21-20.htm">Itching</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-22.htm">Lusts</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-3.htm">Moved</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-10.htm">Multiply</a> <a href="/romans/5-16.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-4.htm">Pleasure</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-4.htm">Satisfy</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-13.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-6.htm">Suit</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-14.htm">Teachers</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-13.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-15.htm">Time</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-20.htm">Tolerate</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-2.htm">Wanting</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-3.htm">Wholesome</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/titus/1-9.htm">Accordance</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/17-17.htm">Accumulate</a> <a href="/hebrews/5-2.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/titus/2-12.htm">Desires</a> <a href="/titus/1-9.htm">Doctrine</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-4.htm">Ears</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-5.htm">Endure</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-16.htm">Find</a> <a href="/revelation/13-10.htm">Gather</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-11.htm">Great</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-4.htm">Heap</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-4.htm">Hearing</a> <a href="/titus/1-14.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/titus/1-9.htm">Instruction</a> <a href="/leviticus/13-31.htm">Itching</a> <a href="/titus/2-12.htm">Lusts</a> <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Moved</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-14.htm">Multiply</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-12.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-4.htm">Pleasure</a> <a href="/1_john/3-19.htm">Satisfy</a> <a href="/titus/1-9.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/exodus/23-3.htm">Suit</a> <a href="/titus/2-3.htm">Teachers</a> <a href="/titus/1-6.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-6.htm">Time</a> <a href="/revelation/2-2.htm">Tolerate</a> <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Wanting</a> <a href="/titus/2-1.htm">Wholesome</a><div class="vheading2">2 Timothy 4</div>1. <a href="/2_timothy/4-1.htm">He exhorts him to preach the Word with all care and diligence;</a> 6. <a href="/2_timothy/4-6.htm">certifies him of the nearness of his death;</a> 9. <a href="/2_timothy/4-9.htm">wills him to come speedily unto him, and to bring Marcus with him;</a> 14. <a href="/2_timothy/4-14.htm">warns him to beware of Alexander the metalworker.</a> 16. <a href="/2_timothy/4-16.htm">informs him what had befallen him at his first answering;</a> 19. <a href="/2_timothy/4-19.htm">and soon after he concludes.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading"><a href="/study/2_timothy/4.htm">Berean Study Bible</a></div>For the time will come This phrase indicates a prophetic warning from the Apostle Paul. The Greek word for "time" is "kairos," which refers to an appointed time or season. Paul is alerting Timothy to a future period characterized by significant spiritual challenges. Historically, this reflects the cyclical nature of apostasy seen throughout biblical history, where periods of faithfulness are often followed by times of spiritual decline.when men will not tolerate The Greek word for "tolerate" is "anechomai," meaning to endure or bear with. This suggests a deliberate choice to reject or refuse to accept something. In this context, it implies a conscious decision by people to turn away from the truth. This reflects a broader historical pattern where societies have often resisted divine truth in favor of more palatable ideologies.sound doctrine "Sound" in Greek is "hygiainō," meaning healthy or wholesome. "Doctrine" is "didaskalia," referring to teaching or instruction. Together, they emphasize teachings that are spiritually nourishing and aligned with biblical truth. The early church faced numerous heresies, and Paul's emphasis on sound doctrine underscores the importance of maintaining theological purity.but with itching ears The phrase "itching ears" translates from the Greek "knēthō," which means to itch or tickle. This metaphor suggests a desire for novelty or teachings that are pleasing rather than challenging. Historically, this reflects human nature's tendency to seek out messages that affirm personal biases rather than confront sin or demand change.they will gather around themselves The Greek word "episōreusousin" means to heap up or accumulate. This indicates an active effort to surround oneself with teachers who conform to one's own preferences. This behavior is not passive but a deliberate action to create an echo chamber of agreeable voices, which can lead to spiritual stagnation and error.teachers to suit their own desires "Teachers" in Greek is "didaskalos," meaning instructors or educators. The phrase "to suit their own desires" highlights the motivation behind selecting these teachers. The Greek word "epithymia" for "desires" often refers to strong cravings or lusts. This suggests that the teachings sought are those that align with personal passions rather than divine truth. Historically, this reflects the danger of allowing personal preferences to dictate spiritual beliefs, leading to the rise of false teachings and doctrines that deviate from the core message of the Gospel.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_timothy/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine.--Timothy must bear in mind that things in the Church of Christ on earth will not change for the better. The great drag-net of the Church, in its wide sweep, would keep drawing into its meshes something of every kind. Errors now just apparent, he must remember, would attain more formidable dimensions. The thirst for novelties in doctrine, the desire for a teaching which, while offering peace to a troubled conscience, would yet allow the old self-indulgent life to go on as before, would increase. In full view of this development of error, in sure expectation of a future full of anxious care, Timothy and his brother teachers must indeed be wakeful, watchful, and earnest in their preaching and ministrations. And the thought that more and ever more of the so-called Christians would dislike the preaching of the "sound doctrine," as taught by the Apostle, the very knowledge of this growing unpopularity, must serve as an incentive to greater labour, more interest, and more loving activity on the part of Timothy and his companions.But after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers.--"Their own lusts:" this expression gives us some insight into the reason which led to this future apostasy of so many, concerning which St. Paul warned Timothy. "Their own lusts," which, at all risks, they would gratify, would serve to alienate them from that severe and strictly moral school of Apostolic teaching, in which the sternest morality was bound up with purity of doctrine, to which school St. Paul's pupils--men like Timothy and the presbyters of Ephesus--belonged. These worldly ones to whom St. Paul referred, reluctant to part with the hope Christianity taught, and unwilling to live the life which St. Paul and Timothy insisted upon as necessary to be lived by all those who would share in that glorious hope, sought out for themselves more indulgent teachers, who would flatter and gratify their hearers with novelties in doctrine, and would, at the same time, lay comparatively little stress on the pure and saintly life.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_timothy/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 3. - The sound for sound, A.V.; having itching ears, will heap to themselves teachers after their own lusts for after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears, A.V. The sound (τῆς ὑγιαινούσης). Nothing is gained by the addition of the article in English. The phrase, ἡ ὑγιαίνουσα διδασκαλία, is characteristic of the pastoral Epistles, having arisen, no doubt, from the growth of heresy (see <a href="/1_timothy/1-10.htm">1 Timothy 1:10</a>; <a href="/1_timothy/6-3.htm">1 Timothy 6:3</a>. <a href="/2_timothy/1-13.htm">2 Timothy 1:13</a>; <a href="/titus/1-9.htm">Titus 1:9, 13</a>; <a href="/titus/2-1.htm">Titus 2:1</a>; also <a href="/titus/2-8.htm">Titus 2:8</a>). In classical Greek, ὑγιής is frequently applied to words, sentiments, advice, etc., in the sense of "sound," "wise;" and ὑγιαίειν is also applied to the mind and character. Endure (ἀνέξονται); usually, as Bishop Ellicott observes, applied by St. Paul to persons as the object, as elsewhere in the New Testament (<a href="/matthew/17-17.htm">Matthew 17:17</a>; <a href="/acts/18-14.htm">Acts 18:14</a>; <a href="/ephesians/4-2.htm">Ephesians 4:2</a>, etc.); but not invariably (see <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-4.htm">2 Thessalonians 1:4</a>; so too <a href="/hebrews/13-22.htm">Hebrews 13:22</a>). In classical Greek, ἀνέχεσθαι, followed by persons or things, usually governs an accusative case, if any, but a genitive frequently in Plato. Having itching ears (κνηθόμενοι τὴν ἀκοήν); only here in the New Testament. The phrase, κνησέως ὤτων, is ascribed by Plutarch to Plato (Alford), "scratching the (itching) ear;" κνᾶσθαι τὰ ῶτα, "to tickle the ears" (Lucian); ἀποκναίουσιν ἡμῶν τὰ ᾤτα (Philo, ap. Ellicott). The verb κνήθω (i.q. κνάω) means "to scratch;" "to tickle," and in the passive "to itch." Will heap to themselves (ἐπισωρεύσουσι); a contemptuous word (found only here in the New Testament, and nowhere in early classical Greek), implying the indiscriminate multiplication of teachers (compare our use of "exaggerate"). The simple σωρεύειν occurs in ch. 3:6. After their own lusts. The measure of the number or the quality of their self-chosen teachers will be their own insatiable and ever-varying fancies and mental appetites, not the desire to be taught God's truth by teachers sent from God. Compare Jeroboam's conduct in ordaining a feast "in the mouth which he had devised of his own heart" (<a href="/1_kings/12-33.htm">1 Kings 12:33</a>). <a href="/commentaries/2_timothy/4-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. [the] time καιρὸς (kairos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2540.htm">Strong's 2540: </a> Fitting season, season, opportunity, occasion, time. Of uncertain affinity; an occasion, i.e. Set or proper time. will come Ἔσται (Estai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. when ὅτε (hote) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3753.htm">Strong's 3753: </a> When, at which time. From hos and te; at which too, i.e. When. men will not tolerate ἀνέξονται (anexontai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> To endure, bear with, have patience with, suffer, admit, persist. sound ὑγιαινούσης (hygiainousēs) Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5198.htm">Strong's 5198: </a> From hugies; to have sound health, i.e. Be well; figuratively, to be uncorrupt. doctrine, διδασκαλίας (didaskalias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1319.htm">Strong's 1319: </a> Instruction, teaching. From didaskalos; instruction. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. with itching κνηθόμενοι (knēthomenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2833.htm">Strong's 2833: </a> To rub, tickle, scratch; pass: I itch. From a primary knao; to scratch, i.e. to tickle. ears ἀκοήν (akoēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_189.htm">Strong's 189: </a> Hearing, faculty of hearing, ear; report, rumor. From akouo; hearing. they will gather around ἐπισωρεύσουσιν (episōreusousin) Verb - Future Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2002.htm">Strong's 2002: </a> To heap up, obtain a multitude of. From epi and soreuo; to accumulate further, i.e. seek additionally. themselves ἑαυτοῖς (heautois) Reflexive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. teachers διδασκάλους (didaskalous) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1320.htm">Strong's 1320: </a> A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor. to suit κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). [their] τὰς (tas) Article - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. own ἰδίας (idias) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2398.htm">Strong's 2398: </a> Pertaining to self, i.e. One's own; by implication, private or separate. desires. ἐπιθυμίας (epithymias) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1939.htm">Strong's 1939: </a> Desire, eagerness for, inordinate desire, lust. From epithumeo; a longing. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-3.htm">NT Letters: 2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they (2 Tim. 2Ti iiTi ii Tim) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Timothy 4:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 4:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_timothy/4-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Timothy 4:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Timothy 4:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>