| Geneva Study Bible Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: {2} from such turn away. (2) We must not tarry with those men who resist the truth not from simple ignorance, but from a perverse mind, (which thing appears by their fruits which he graphically displays here); rather, we must turn away from them. People's New Testament 3:5 Having a form of godliness. This implies that the persons described professed to be religious, worshipers of God in outward form. A godless church is described. But denying the power thereof. Rejecting its power. Their lives are not molded by it. From such turn away. This implies that some of this formal, godless religion had begun to show itself even at that time. Wesley's Notes 3:5 Having a form - An appearance of godliness, but not regarding, nay, even denying and blaspheming, the inward power and reality of it. Is not this eminently fulfilled at this day? Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary 5. form-outward semblance. godliness-piety. denying-rather as Greek, "having denied," that is, renounced. the power-the living, regenerating, sanctifying influence of it. turn away-implying that some of such characters, forerunners of the last days, were already in the Church. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary 3:1-9 Even in gospel times there would be perilous times; on account of persecution from without, still more on account of corruptions within. Men love to gratify their own lusts, more than to please God and do their duty. When every man is eager for what he can get, and anxious to keep what he has, this makes men dangerous to one another. When men do not fear God, they will not regard man. When children are disobedient to their parents, that makes the times perilous. Men are unholy and without the fear of God, because unthankful for the mercies of God. We abuse God's gifts, if we make them the food and fuel of our lusts. Times are perilous also, when parents are without natural affection to children. And when men have no rule over their own spirits, but despise that which is good and to be honoured. God is to be loved above all; but a carnal mind, full of enmity against him, prefers any thing before him, especially carnal pleasure. A form of godliness is very different from the power; from such as are found to be hypocrites, real Christians must withdraw. Such persons have been found within the outward church, in every place, and at all times. There ever have been artful men, who, by pretences and flatteries, creep into the favour and confidence of those who are too easy of belief, ignorant, and fanciful. All must be ever learning to know the Lord; but these follow every new notion, yet never seek the truth as it is in Jesus. Like the Egyptian magicians, these were men of corrupt minds, prejudiced against the truth, and found to be quite without faith. Yet though the spirit of error may be let loose for a time, Satan can deceive the nations and the churches no further, and no longer, than God will permit. | 
