Bible: 2 Timothy 3:1-9 

Leadership is influence, nothing more and nothing less. After a cursory reading of these scriptures, Paul’s instruction to his young protégé, there is a word that comes to mind – “SAVAGE.” This word represents a cumulative summation of negative influence of these earmarks of depravity. The Apostle Paul pointedly states to Timothy, avoid people characterized by these earmarks. I am listing these 19 earmarks of depravity below, followed by 4 observations. Keep in mind these earmarks were wrote about in the first century, but they are relevant to today’s world.

Lovers of self – Selfishness

Lovers of money – Materialistic

Boastful – Ancient “con artist” implied

Arrogant

Revilers – Blasphemer

Disobedient to Parents

Ungrateful

Unholy

Unloving

Irreconcilable

Malicious Gossips

Without Self Control

Brutal

Haters of Good

Treacherous – “Traitor” implied

Reckless – Falling forward into trouble

Conceited

Lovers of Pleasure Rather Than Lovers of God

Form of Godliness Minus The Power of Demonstrating The Reality

Any single or combination of these influencers can exhibit a brand of leadership that is savage and brutal! As you read the wisdom of Paul you realize in the first century and today the influence of evil will intersect our lives at multiple points. Paul warns to avoid people who exhibit these earmarks. A warning has been issued! How do we prepare? Here are 4 observations.

1. Difficulty will come in life as evil attempts to destroy good – accept this reality. Nonprofit work in a depraved world will be difficult – embrace it!
2. Deceivers will present themselves as ambassadors of truth – reject their message. False influencers are TOXIC – reject them!
3. Evil resides in places of power that cannot easily be overthrown – endure difficult times. Evil is temporary! Reject evil when you can and endure when you must!
4. The primary weapon of evil is deception – reveal truth. Evil cannot stand in the light of truth – Shine the LIGHT!

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The genesis of this article originated in a commentary article by Charles R. Swindoll