These verses explain how we are to deal with those in opposition who are in bondage to the devil. We are to be patient and bring gentle correction in hopes that God will grant repentance. Paul warns to avoid speculations which will produce quarrels.

We spend some time showing why speculations easily become common among Christians and why they are harmful. We do know that evil exists and that evil men and impostors will become worse during the church age (2 Timothy 3:13). It is also true that such persons conspire against the truth. It does not follow that conspiracy theories based on speculations are appropriate for the church.

We are not to theorize about what may be happening, but patiently correct error that does happen. We do not know the intents of the heart but do know the difference between truth and error. It is God who grants repentance and this is His means of setting people free from spiritual captivity. Paul’s instructions to Timothy are clearly important for the times we are facing in the world today.