For Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica.
2 Timothy 4:10a NIV
This is, to me, one of the saddest passages in Scripture. Paul wrote this from a Roman prison, likely awaiting execution. He wrote to Timothy, his true son in the faith (1 Tim. 1:2), giving him some final instructions. He encouraged Timothy to visit him as soon as he could, bringing with him some specific items. And he shared with Timothy the disposition of some of Paul’s traveling companions.
His message about Demas is what I find so sad. Demas is mentioned in Colossians 4:14 and Philemon 1:24, sending greetings as Paul’s co-laborer in the faith. Demas was Paul’s trusted companion. One who knew him well and had shared in at least some of the hardships of his journeys. He was a known and respected Christian leader in the early church.
Loving the World
But something happened to Demas. He left Paul sitting in his prison. He turned his back on the work he had been doing. Did he turn his back on the faith? We cannot know from this brief comment, but it seems that way to me. He left Paul because he loved this world. In 1 John 2:15, love of this world is contrasted with love for God. You cannot have both.
That’s why this is so sad. Demas probably did not suddenly decide he loved the world. He likely loved it all along. But something about the gospel message appealed to him, and he followed it for a while. Until he became disillusioned, turned his back on it, and went back to the world.
All too many people are like Demas. They may look committed to Christ and may be active in serving Him. But something happens, and they return to their first love, the world. The world’s lure and appeal are strong. And unfortunately, it draws many back into that life and away from the kingdom.
