Book of 2 Timothy - Chapter 3 - Verse 13

The verse "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived," highlights the warning that in the last days, there will be a proliferation of falsehood and deception perpetuated by wicked individuals. The term "evil men" refers to those who engage in malicious and harmful behavior, while "seducers" are those who lead others astray or into sin. The verse emphasizes that as time progresses, these individuals will become increasingly corrupt and will continue to deceive others, while also falling prey to deception themselves. This serves as a cautionary message to believers, urging them to be vigilant and discerning in order to avoid falling into the traps set by those who seek to mislead them. By being aware of the potential for deception and remaining steadfast in their faith, believers can guard themselves against the deceitful tactics of evil men and seducers.

When examining the theological interpretation of 2 Timothy 3:13, it is important to understand the context in which the verse is situated. The preceding verses describe the characteristics of people in the last days - lovers of themselves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. The verse in question then serves as a warning that these evil men and seducers will only continue to deteriorate in their actions, deceiving and being deceived. This degradation is seen as a spiral effect, where the deception perpetuated by these individuals leads them further astray from truth and righteousness. The term "wax worse and worse" signifies a gradual worsening, indicating that their influence and impact will grow over time. It is a cautionary message urging believers to remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith amidst the increasing prevalence of deception in the world.