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NASB | 2 Timothy 3:5 holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 2 Timothy 3:5 holding to a form of [outward] godliness (religion), although they have denied its power [for their conduct nullifies their claim of faith]. Avoid such people and keep far away from them. |
Subject: Do you think 2 Tim. 3:5 is nations too? |
Bible Note: I'm not sure I see your point in relation to the original question or my response. You seem to be very concerned about how we respond "as a nation" to these issues. But I do not see how this text demonstrates that Paul had anything other in mind than the sin of individuals. I also do not see the Bible anywhere being terribly concerned with the sins of a collective nation as a whole; except that Israel symbolically represents Christ and the pagan nations symbolicaly represent Satan. Thus, the Bible, in how it addresses nations, is actually preaching the gospel to us, not speaking of social reform. "If my people will turn from their wicked ways..." (1 Chronicles 7:14) is a picture of the first Adam -- sinful Israel -- being urged toward righteousness -- the righteousness which Christ lived for us as the second Adam. All though you are speaking about our sins as a nation, I get the sense that your main point is that the USA is doing something wrong by destroying terrorists worldwide, as if this were somehow evil. But the government is given to us, graciously by God, to act as a restraint on evil. See these verses: Rom 13:4b But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it [the government, the governing authorities, v. 1] does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Rom 13:5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. Fearing the commands of God, and following our conscience, we should respectfully submit and even be supportive when our government brandishes the sword against those who commit evil. This is a godly -- and biblical -- attitude. |