Introduction:
Jannes and Jambres are figures mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Second Epistle to Timothy. They are traditionally identified as the magicians who opposed Moses during the events leading up to the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. Their account, while not explicitly detailed in the Old Testament, has been preserved through Jewish and early Christian traditions.

Biblical Reference:
The primary biblical reference to Jannes and Jambres is found in 2 Timothy 3:8-9 : "Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth. They are depraved in mind and disqualified from the faith. But they will not advance much further. For just like Jannes and Jambres, their folly will be plain to everyone."

Historical and Traditional Context:
Jannes and Jambres are not named in the Old Testament, but they are traditionally associated with the Egyptian magicians who challenged Moses and Aaron in the court of Pharaoh. In Exodus 7:11-12 , it is recorded: "Then Pharaoh also summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the magicians of Egypt, and they also did the same things by their magic arts. Each one threw down his staff, and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs."

The names Jannes and Jambres are found in extra-biblical Jewish literature, such as the Targum of Jonathan and the Babylonian Talmud, which identify them as the leading magicians who resisted Moses. These sources provide a backdrop for their mention in the New Testament, illustrating their role as archetypal opponents of God's truth.

Theological Significance:
In 2 Timothy, the Apostle Paul uses Jannes and Jambres as examples of those who resist the truth and are corrupt in their thinking. Their opposition to Moses is likened to the false teachers and deceivers in the early Christian community. Paul warns Timothy about such individuals, emphasizing that their resistance to the truth is ultimately futile and will be exposed.

The example of Jannes and Jambres serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of opposing God's work and truth. Their account underscores the theme of divine authority and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes over human deceit and rebellion.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons:
1. Resistance to Truth: Jannes and Jambres symbolize the futility of resisting God's truth. Their opposition to Moses, a prophet of God, highlights the peril of standing against divine authority.

2. Deception and Folly: The magicians' initial success in replicating Moses' miracles through their arts is short-lived, illustrating that deception and falsehood cannot withstand the power of God. Their folly becomes evident, serving as a warning against relying on human wisdom and deceit.

3. Divine Vindication: The narrative of Jannes and Jambres reassures believers that God will ultimately vindicate His truth and expose the folly of those who oppose Him. This encourages faithfulness and perseverance in the face of opposition.

4. Spiritual Discernment: The mention of Jannes and Jambres in the New Testament calls for discernment among believers to recognize and resist false teachings and to remain steadfast in the truth of the Gospel.

Conclusion:
The example of Jannes and Jambres, though briefly mentioned in Scripture, provides a profound lesson on the consequences of opposing God's truth. Their account, preserved through tradition and referenced by Paul, serves as a timeless reminder of the ultimate victory of divine truth over human deception.