Second Timothy 3:6 indicates that the apostate men direct their attention chiefly to “weak women.” This does not refer to women in general as being ‘weaker vessels’ in contrast to men, as at 1 Peter 3:7. Instead, it refers to women who are weak spiritually or morally, as the context indicates. The apostates do not openly advance their wrong views in a manly way, but “slyly work their way into households.” They curry the favor of such “weak women” and, through these, endeavor to influence the rest of the household. Not being well-grounded in Christian teaching, such “weak women” readily succumb to false teachers who perhaps by a graceful manner and flattering speech make themselves appear to be ministers of righteousness.

These “weak women” are also described as being “loaded down with sins” and “led by various desires.” This evidently means that sinful inclinations and desires weigh heavily upon them. They do not really hate what is bad nor do they have a genuine love for righteousness. Their sinful inclinations make them easy prey for false teachers, some of these women no doubt even allowing themselves to be talked into committing sexual immorality on the basis that God understands human weaknesses and is very merciful and forgiving.

It becomes readily apparent why such “weak women” would ‘always be learning and yet never be able to come to an accurate knowledge of truth.’ Not having the needed motivation to acquire a full understanding and appreciation of Christian truth, they never improve their spiritual standing. They may continue to learn things, but they never come to know and appreciate the sense of the entire body of Christian teachings so as to conduct themselves accordingly. They allowing themselves to come under the influence of false teachers, their situation only worsens.

Since corrupt men can also slip into a congregation of God’s people in these “last days,” Paul’s words emphasize the need for true Christians to be alert to discern false teaching and improper reasoning. (2 Tim. 3:1) A person who desires to maintain an acceptable standing before Jehovah God should put forth every effort to ‘go on walking in union with Christ Jesus, rooted and being built up in him and being stabilized in the faith.’ (Col. 2:6, 7) This calls for study of the entire body of Christian teaching as set forth in the Holy Scriptures and application of the things learned. Then, when individuals present thoughts contrary to God’s Word, one will not be deceived and ensnared by sinful inclinations.