by A. W. Pink
"Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them!" 2 Timothy 3:5
There are a multitude of such today!
"Having a form of godliness" This means that they have a religious veneer. They bear the name of Christ, belong to some so-called evangelical church, and seek to create the impression that they are regenerate people. But like the foolish bridesmaids of Matthew 25, they "took their lamps—but took no oil with them." These professors are neither indwelt by the Holy Spirit, nor made partakers of the transforming grace of God.
It is said of them, secondly, "but denying its power." The reality of vital godliness is lacking, the beauties of holiness are not found in them. By their lips, they claim to be godly—but by their lives, they give the lie to it. "They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good!" (Titus 1:16)
"Have nothing to do with them!" With such people, the children of God are to have nothing to do with—but are to shun them as they would the plague!