2 Timothy 3:8

KJV

Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.

KJV (with Strong's)

{G3739} Now {G1161} as {G5158} Jannes {G2389} and {G2532} Jambres {G2387} withstood {G436} Moses {G3475}, so {G3779} do {G436} these {G3778} also {G2532} resist {G436} the truth {G225}: men {G444} of corrupt {G2704} minds {G3563}, reprobate {G96} concerning {G4012} the faith {G4102}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In the same way as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moshe, so also these people oppose the truth. They are people with corrupted minds, whose trust cannot pass the test.

Berean Standard Bible

Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth. They are depraved in mind and disqualified from the faith.

American Standard Version

And even as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also withstand the truth; men corrupted in mind, reprobate concerning the faith.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Timothy 3:8, the Apostle Paul issues a solemn warning to Timothy, drawing a vivid parallel between the ancient Egyptian magicians Jannes and Jambres, who vehemently opposed Moses, and contemporary individuals who similarly resist the truth of God. These adversaries are characterized by minds corrupted by sin and a spiritual state described as "reprobate concerning the faith," indicating a profound and deliberate rejection of divine revelation and sound doctrine, rendering them disqualified or worthless in matters of genuine belief.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's final letter to his beloved protégé, Timothy, serving as a crucial warning against the spiritual and moral decay characteristic of the "last days" (2 Timothy 3:1). Paul has just enumerated a litany of vices that will define people in these perilous times, ranging from self-love and greed to a superficial religiosity that denies genuine divine power (2 Timothy 3:2-5). Verse 8 specifically identifies the *active opposition* of such individuals, moving beyond mere character flaws to deliberate resistance against God's truth. The immediate verses that follow (2 Timothy 3:9) promise that the folly of these false teachers will eventually be exposed, just as that of Jannes and Jambres was, providing a glimmer of hope and assurance amidst the dire warning. The broader context of 2 Timothy emphasizes the importance of holding fast to sound doctrine, enduring hardship, and faithfully proclaiming the Word, all of which are essential in confronting the very opposition described here.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's reference to "Jannes and Jambres" is particularly insightful, drawing upon a tradition not explicitly detailed in the Old Testament but well-known within Jewish literature and oral tradition of the time. These two figures are widely identified as the chief magicians or sorcerers in Pharaoh's court who attempted to replicate the miraculous signs performed by Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh (as recounted in [Exodus 7:11-12](/exodus/7-11-12 "Exodus 7:11-12 - Pharaoh's Magicians Imitate Moses") and [Exodus 8:7](/exodus/8-7 "Exodus 8:7 - Magicians Replicate Frogs")). While they could initially mimic some of God's power, their limitations were starkly revealed when they failed to reproduce the plague of gnats, confessing, "This is the finger of God!" (as seen in [Exodus 8:18-19](/exodus/8-18-19 "Exodus 8:18-19 - Magicians Acknowledge God's Power")). By invoking these specific names, Paul taps into a powerful archetype of those who, despite witnessing undeniable divine power and truth, stubbornly resist it through deceptive means, ultimately failing. This historical allusion would have resonated strongly with Timothy, a Jewish Christian, and his audience, providing a clear and universally understood example of spiritual opposition.
* **Key Themes:** The passage powerfully articulates several interconnected themes. Firstly, it highlights the **Persistent Nature of Spiritual Opposition**, underscoring that resistance to God's truth is not a new phenomenon but a recurring pattern throughout redemptive history, from the time of Moses to the "last days" Timothy now faced and believers continue to face. Secondly, it delves into the **Moral and Intellectual Corruption** that fuels such resistance, describing these individuals as having "corrupt minds" and being "reprobate concerning the faith." This speaks to a profound internal spiritual decay that renders them incapable of discerning or accepting divine truth, often leading to a rejection of the very core tenets of the gospel, as seen in [Titus 1:15-16](/titus/1-15-16 "Titus 1:15-16 - Defiled Minds and Reprobate Works"). Lastly, the verse implicitly emphasizes the **Discernment and Steadfastness Required** of believers like Timothy. Just as Moses persevered despite opposition, so too must God's servants remain firm in sound doctrine and righteous living, trusting that the ultimate exposure of falsehood is inevitable, as Paul reiterates in [2 Timothy 3:9](/2_timothy/3-9 "2 Timothy 3:9 - Folly Exposed").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **withstood/resist (Greek, _anthístēmi'_):** This verb, used twice in the verse, signifies "to stand against," "to oppose," or "to set oneself in opposition to." It implies an active, deliberate, and often hostile confrontation. In the context of Jannes and Jambres, it describes their direct challenge to Moses' divine authority and miraculous signs. When applied to the "these also," it denotes a similar, intentional antagonism toward the truth of the gospel. It's not passive ignorance but an active stance against what is right and true.
* **corrupt (Greek, _kataphtheírō'_):** Derived from a verb meaning "to spoil entirely" or "to destroy," this term, when used figuratively, means "to deprave" or "to utterly perish." Here, it describes the state of the minds (`noûs`) of the adversaries. Their intellect and moral understanding are not merely flawed but are thoroughly ruined, depraved, and spiritually decayed, rendering them incapable of sound judgment or reception of truth.
* **reprobate (Greek, _adókimos'_):** This adjective literally means "not standing the test," "unapproved," or "rejected after examination." It was used in contexts like metals that failed to meet a standard of purity or athletes disqualified from a competition. In a theological sense, it describes those who, when tested by the standard of faith and truth, are found wanting and are therefore disapproved or rejected by God. It signifies a state of spiritual worthlessness or disqualification, not necessarily from salvation (which is God's prerogative) but certainly from genuine participation in or understanding of true faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses":** This opening clause establishes the historical precedent and the nature of the opposition. Paul immediately grounds his contemporary warning in a well-known ancient narrative, drawing a direct and powerful analogy. The resistance of Jannes and Jambres to Moses was a direct challenge to God's divinely appointed messenger and His revealed power. Their actions were characterized by an attempt to counterfeit divine works and undermine God's authority.
* **"so do these also resist the truth":** This is the core of Paul's analogy, applying the historical example to the present situation. The "these" refers to the false teachers and morally corrupt individuals Paul has been describing in the preceding verses. Their resistance is not against a person, but against "the truth" itself—the revealed Word of God, the gospel, and sound doctrine. This resistance implies a deliberate choice to stand against divine revelation, often through deception, false teaching, or a rejection of moral and spiritual standards.
* **"men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith":** This final clause describes the internal spiritual condition of those who resist the truth. Their "minds" (intellect, understanding, moral faculty) are "corrupt," meaning they are thoroughly depraved, ruined, or spoiled by sin and falsehood. This corruption prevents them from discerning or accepting truth. Furthermore, they are "reprobate concerning the faith," indicating that in matters of faith, they are found to be disqualified, worthless, or rejected. This is not a statement about God's election but about their demonstrated spiritual bankruptcy and inability to genuinely embrace or live out true, saving faith.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse. The most prominent is **Analogy/Comparison**, where he directly likens the contemporary opponents of truth to the ancient figures of Jannes and Jambres. This comparison serves to clarify the nature of the opposition Timothy faces, providing a historical precedent and suggesting the ultimate outcome. By using Jannes and Jambres, Paul also employs **Archetype**, presenting these figures as symbolic representations of all who stubbornly resist divine truth despite clear evidence. Furthermore, the descriptions "corrupt minds" and "reprobate concerning the faith" function as powerful **Metaphors** for the internal spiritual state of these individuals, painting a vivid picture of intellectual and moral decay that renders them spiritually bankrupt and disqualified from true faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative of spiritual warfare, highlighting the ongoing conflict between truth and falsehood, light and darkness. It underscores that resistance to God's truth is not merely intellectual disagreement but often stems from a deep-seated moral and spiritual corruption. The "reprobate" nature of these individuals points to a state where, having repeatedly rejected God's truth, their capacity for spiritual discernment becomes severely impaired, leading to a divine "giving over" to their own darkened understanding. This serves as a sober warning about the consequences of persistent rebellion against God's revealed will and the importance of guarding one's mind and heart against the insidious influence of error.

* [Exodus 7:11-12](/exodus/7-11-12 "Exodus 7:11-12 - Pharaoh's Magicians Imitate Moses")
* [Titus 1:15-16](/titus/1-15-16 "Titus 1:15-16 - Defiled Minds and Reprobate Works")
* [Romans 1:28](/romans/1-28 "Romans 1:28 - God Gives Them Over to a Reprobate Mind")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's warning in 2 Timothy 3:8 serves as an enduring call for vigilance and discernment for believers in every age. It reminds us that spiritual opposition is an ever-present reality, often manifesting not as overt persecution but as subtle deception and resistance to truth from within the broader spiritual landscape. We are challenged to cultivate minds that are not easily swayed by corrupt ideologies or false teachings, but are instead renewed by the Spirit and anchored in the unshakeable truth of God's Word. This requires not only intellectual engagement with Scripture but also a deep commitment to moral purity and spiritual integrity, recognizing that a corrupt mind and a reprobate faith are often intertwined. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to stand firm, knowing that just as Jannes and Jambres' folly was exposed, so too will the emptiness of all who resist the truth ultimately be made manifest, and God's truth will prevail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the nature of Jannes and Jambres' opposition help us identify and respond to contemporary resistance to truth?**
* **In what ways might our own minds become "corrupt," and what spiritual disciplines can help us guard against such decay?**
* **What does it mean to be "reprobate concerning the faith," and how can we ensure our faith remains genuine and approved by God?**
* **How can we, like Timothy, remain steadfast in upholding truth when confronted by those who actively resist it?**

### FAQ
**Who were Jannes and Jambres, and why does Paul mention them?**

Answer: Jannes and Jambres were, according to ancient Jewish tradition and extra-biblical sources, the chief magicians or sorcerers in Pharaoh's court who opposed Moses and Aaron during the Exodus. While they are not explicitly named in the Old Testament book of Exodus, their involvement is widely accepted in Jewish lore. Paul mentions them in [2 Timothy 3:8](/2_timothy/3-8 "2 Timothy 3:8 - Jannes and Jambres Withstood Moses") to draw a direct parallel between their historical resistance to God's power demonstrated through Moses, and the contemporary resistance to God's truth exhibited by false teachers and morally corrupt individuals in Timothy's day. They serve as an archetype of those who, despite witnessing undeniable divine power, stubbornly resist the truth through deception and imitation, ultimately failing.

**What does it mean to have "corrupt minds" and be "reprobate concerning the faith"?**

Answer: To have "corrupt minds" (Greek: _kataphtheírō noûs_) means that one's intellect, understanding, and moral faculty are thoroughly depraved, spoiled, or ruined by sin and falsehood. This corruption renders them incapable of discerning or accepting spiritual truth. It's not merely a lack of knowledge but a deep-seated moral and intellectual decay. To be "reprobate concerning the faith" (Greek: _adókimos perí pístin_) means to be "unapproved," "disqualified," or "rejected after examination" in matters of faith. This signifies a spiritual state where, when put to the test of genuine faith and sound doctrine, these individuals are found wanting and are therefore disapproved by God. It indicates a fundamental spiritual bankruptcy and an inability to truly embrace or live out authentic Christian faith, often as a consequence of persistent rejection of the truth, as described in [Romans 1:28](/romans/1-28 "Romans 1:28 - God Gives Them Over to a Reprobate Mind").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The resistance to truth and the presence of corrupt, reprobate minds, as described in 2 Timothy 3:8, finds its ultimate contrast and conquest in Jesus Christ. He is not merely a messenger of truth, but the very embodiment of it, declaring, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus Himself faced relentless opposition from those with corrupt minds and reprobate hearts, particularly the religious leaders who, like Jannes and Jambres, resisted the undeniable signs of God's power and the truth of His words ([John 8:44](/john/8-44 "John 8:44 - The Father of Lies") reveals the source of their deception). Their spiritual blindness and hardened hearts prevented them from recognizing the Messiah. However, Christ's victory on the cross and His resurrection utterly disarmed all spiritual adversaries and powers that stand against the truth ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). For believers, our fulfillment lies in Christ, who empowers us to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes" ([Ephesians 6:11](/ephesians/6-11 "Ephesians 6:11 - The Armor of God")). Through Him, we are not only enabled to discern and resist falsehood but are also transformed by the renewing of our minds, allowing us to prove what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewal of Your Mind")). In Christ, the truth always triumphs over every form of resistance and corruption.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 2:20

Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

1 Timothy 6:5

Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

Acts 13:8

But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

Acts 13:11

And now, behold, the hand of the Lord [is] upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.

Exodus 7:11

Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.

Titus 1:16

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny [him], being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

2 Timothy 4:15

Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.