One of the great things about the Bible is the breadth of different topics covered. It speaks to every situation and important issue we face in life, giving us wisdom and strength.

You wouldn’t think it, but the Bible even contains a cure for ‘itchy ears’ (figuratively speaking, that is!). Today’s reading from 2 Timothy 3:10 – 4:5 says that some people “will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather round them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.”

Paul is referring to those who claim to be Christians, but reject the plain teaching of God’s Word and allow their views to be shaped by the unbelieving world. Take the recent appointment of a new Archbishop of Canterbury, for example. The Church of England has sadly chosen a leader who supports abortion and the blessing of same-sex unions, thus contradicting Scripture’s teaching on the sanctity of human life and God’s design for sexuality. Who knows what other heresies she will promote while in office? I pray that she repents of this betrayal of her ordination vow to uphold the authority of the Bible. 

There is only one real cure for ‘itching ears’, and that is the faithful teaching of God’s Word. 2 Timothy 3:16 says that “all Scripture is God-breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…” It makes us “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (3:15b). The Bible reveals the magnitude of God’s love and grace, demonstrated in sending His Son so that we might have new, abundant and eternal life. Psalm 19:7-11 says that God’s law is “perfect, refreshing the soul…giving joy to the heart…light to the eyes…more precious than gold…sweeter than honey…”, warning and rewarding those who believe and live by it. So may we set our affections on the God who has given us His life-changing and powerful Word, and by His Spirit hear and obey it each and every day, to the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ.