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The story of Jannes and Jambres is recorded in Exodus 7 and 8. Their names are not given, but
the Holy Spirit reveals them here. Religion always opposes grace. These people do not resist
the person, but the truth, the Word of God. They came to a point where they could not and
would not receive the truth. This is the point the Jews have come to in Jerusalem. Paul is being
held by those whose minds have reached corruption and attitudes are reprobate. They can tell
others what to do, but cannot do it themselves (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5;
Galatians 6:13).

Verse 9 -- But they shall proceed (advance) no further: for their folly (anoia: madness, insanity)
shall be manifest (evident) unto all men, as theirs (Jannes and Jambres) also was.

Jerusalem’s religious opposition will be brought into the light before believers and unbelievers
alike. Their madness will be displayed, just as the opposition of Pharaoh’s court was displayed
to the whole world at the Red Sea. His madness is part of recorded history. Paul will list seven
areas in verses 10 and 11, which Timothy has followed in Paul’s ministry.

Verses 10-11; But thou hast fully known (parakoloutheo: followed closely, have understanding)
my doctrine (teaching), manner of life (instruction by example), purpose (goals in the ministry),
faith (lifestyle of faith), long-suffering (endurance), charity (agape: love, this is what makes
everything else work in the Christian life), patience (steadfast during trials), Verse 11
Persecutions (diagmos: opposition by religion), afflictions (sufferings, beatings, attempted
assassinations, stoning), which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what
persecutions I endured (stood up under): but out of them all the Lord delivered me. . .

God is faithful to deliver us from all opposition (Psalm 34:19).

Verse 12; Yea (furthermore), and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

You cannot study and live the Word of God without opposition coming from Satan. When you
live the Word and become a doer of each promise, you become a primary target for Satan.
Sickness, disease, and poverty are not mentioned. This opposition is from religious, legalistic
people who oppose grace. Trouble comes from those who judge your food, clothes, personal
life and actions.

MAIN CHARACTERS

In Acts 24 through 26, Paul will appear before several of the most prominent government
figures in the Roman Empire: Phoenix, Festus, and Agrippa. These three chapters form one trial
before three judges during two years in prison in Caesarea.

The ruler of Rome at this time is Claudius. He does not trust the aristocracy or senate of Rome
and puts three former slaves in power, Felix, Narcissus, and Pallas. Phoenix and Pallas are
brothers. Narcissus is running much of Rome with Pallas who is the lover of Claudius’ wife.
Claudius had two wives, Messalina was the first. She was famous for her promiscuity. She had
a son by Claudius named Britannicus who never came to power. Because of her unfaithfulness,