What does 2 Timothy 4:3 mean?
The time when people would not listen to sound teaching and instead amass false teachers was not far away, according to this reference. . Paul was concerned that after his death, false teachers would arise in Ephesus and turn believers from the true faith into error and myths. Paul specifically addresses four concerns in this verse and the next that would lead people away from God's truth.The first two concerns are in this verse. First, people would grow tired of the true gospel and reject it. Instead, they would turn in other directions, looking to replace sound or healthy teaching. This is to be expected when the gospel message begins with a humbling, difficult thought: we are imperfect and in need of saving.
Second, instead of following godly teachers, people would choose to follow teachers who told them what they liked to hear, rather than what was true. The idea of "itching ears" may be that of twitching or moving ears that sought something different from the traditional, true gospel message.
The next verse will add two more descriptions of those who turn away: they will avoid truth, and they will follow myths.
Second Timothy 4:1–8 contains Paul's last ministry instructions to Timothy. Paul knows that he will not survive his current imprisonment. So, he clearly and boldly charges Timothy—commands him—to hold to the faith he has seen and lived. He can do this knowing that Paul has faithfully served God, expecting the heavenly rewards given to all of God's followers. The poignant tone of this passage is made even more bittersweet by the long friendship these two men have shared.
Paul summarizes his instructions to Timothy, through a practical application of his prior teachings. Timothy is "charged" by Paul to defend his faith, against all error and false teaching, at all times. Timothy will face resistance. Paul also openly admits that his life is nearly over, so Timothy will need to soldier on without him. After this, Paul gives some personal updates about his situation, giving Timothy a few instructions and advice about particular people. Paul makes a final appeal for Timothy to visit him, then closes his letter—as he will close his life—focused on the grace of God.