2 Timothy 3:1

Paul had given Timothy some instruction concerning the apostasy of the last days in his first epistle (1 Timothy 4:1-3). Now he gave much more. The "last days" refers to the days preceding the Lord’s return for His own (i.e., the Rapture). [Note: Kelly, p. 193; Earle, p. 406.] They are "last" not because they are few but because they are the final days of the present age. In another sense the entire inter-advent age constitutes the last days (cf. Hebrews 1:2). [Note: Lea, p. 223.] Timothy was already in the last days, but they would continue and grow worse. These times would be "difficult" for all, especially faithful Christians. A list of 19 specific characteristics of these days follows.