New Testament
2 Timothy 3:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Meanwhile, evil people and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived themselves.
Compare translations
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
What 2 Timothy 3:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a stark warning about the nature of evil people and impostors. They are not just bad; they are getting worse over time. Their actions are marked by deception, both in how they mislead others and how they are misled themselves. This cycle of deceit creates a dangerous environment where trust is eroded. It’s a reminder that not everyone has good intentions, and some may appear convincing while leading others astray. The reality is that these individuals often believe their own lies, which makes them even more dangerous. This passage encourages us to be vigilant and discerning, recognizing that the world can be filled with misleading influences. We must be aware of who we trust and the information we accept as truth, as it can have profound effects on our lives and beliefs. Understanding this helps us navigate our relationships and choices more wisely, ensuring we stay grounded in what is true and good, rather than being swept away by falsehoods and deception.
How to apply 2 Timothy 3:13 to your life
To apply this verse, stay alert to the influences around you. Surround yourself with trustworthy people and seek out truth in your life. Be cautious of those who seem deceptive or insincere. Regularly reflect on your beliefs and values to ensure they align with what is true and good. This will help you avoid being misled by others' falsehoods and lies.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Timothy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Timothy 3:13
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Timothy 3:13
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Timothy
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 67
- Genre
- Letter (pastoral epistle)
- Original Audience
- Timothy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Timothy 3:13 mean about evil people?
2 Timothy 3:13 warns that evil people and impostors will increasingly engage in deceitful behavior. This verse highlights a troubling trend where such individuals not only mislead others but also fall victim to their own lies. It serves as a reminder that the presence of deceit in the world is growing, and we must be cautious about whom we trust and the information we accept.
How can I protect myself from deception as mentioned in this verse?
To protect yourself from deception, it's important to cultivate discernment. This means being vigilant about the influences in your life, questioning the motives of those around you, and seeking truth through reliable sources. Regularly reflect on your beliefs and values to ensure they align with what is true and good, helping you to avoid being misled by falsehoods.
What are some signs of impostors in today's world?
Signs of impostors include inconsistencies in their words and actions, a lack of transparency, and a tendency to manipulate situations for personal gain. They may present themselves as trustworthy but often have ulterior motives. Being aware of these traits can help you identify and distance yourself from such individuals.
Why is discernment important according to 2 Timothy 3:13?
Discernment is crucial because it helps you navigate a world filled with deception and misleading influences. 2 Timothy 3:13 emphasizes the need to be aware of the growing presence of evil and impostors. By exercising discernment, you can make informed decisions about whom to trust and what information to accept, ultimately protecting your beliefs and values.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.