Divine Inspiration of Scripture.2 Timothy 3:16-17.
All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, That the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
Dear Children of the King,
The scriptures have been commended to Timothy as being being able to bring one to salvation. We now turn to the source of that power.
Entire (v. 16a). All scripture means the Old Testament because that is what they had then. It is also quite possible that Paul is including the writings of the New Testament that were available then. Earlier, Paul referred to a quote from one of the gospels as scripture (1 Timothy 5:18, compare Luke 10:7), and Peter refers to Paul’s letters as scripture (2 Peter 3:15-16).” Breathed out by God” means it comes from God. It also implies that just as God gave man life by breathing “into his nostrils the breath of life,” so scripture has life, in a manner of speaking. The Bible is God speaking. If we ignore the Bible, we ignore God.
Enriching (v. 16b). Scripture has many profitable uses. Teaching. Once born again, a person needs instruction on how to live a life that pleases God. Scripture is good for that. Reproof. When we stray from the path of righteousness, the scripture will point out the wrong to us. It will rebuke us. Correction. Not only does scripture rebuke, but it also shows us how we may make right what we have done wrong. Training in Righteousness. We are sinners by nature, so righteousness does not come to us naturally. As we engage scripture through hearing, reading, memorizing, and meditating, we learn how to live by what is right.
Enabling (v. 17).The purpose of training in righteousness is so that we as God’s people can be equipped fully, to do everything that God wants us to do. The work of God is always good, so we will be equipped and not lacking the means to do the good that we ought. Engage scripture and be empowered to do what pleases God.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.