2 Timothy 3:1-17
Wednesday, 14 July 2021
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work. -2 Timothy 3:16-17)
The divine authorship of the Bible makes it unique to all other books. The unity, consistency and harmony of Scripture revealed in the 66 books of the Holy Bible proves that it is the inspired Word of God. It would have been an impossible human task for 40 authors with varied skills, languages and different cultures and historical backgrounds writing over a period 1500 years to bring out the unity of scripture unless the Holy Spirit guided them. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, all scripture is ‘God-breathed.’ The Greek word theopneustos used here is translated as ‘Theo’ - God and ‘pneustos’ - breath literally meaning ‘breathed into by God’ or ‘by the inspiration of God.’ Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed to these authors who He is, His plans and directions for His people. The Bible has a life-saving message for everyone “…you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith that is in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:15) We should treasure the inspired word of God which is absolutely truthful, instructing us in everything for our faith, salvation and life.
The Purpose of the Word is
Command: The Word of God is given for teaching and instruction, authoritatively giving us the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith. The Bible teaches us who God is and His plan for salvation through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Every man of God has the duty to teach the scripture in truth (2 Timothy 4:1-2) and every believer has the responsibility to examine the scriptures and ensure that the word that is taught is true (Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21)
Conviction: The Word of God is profitable for reproof and conviction. The deeper our revelation of God from the scripture, the more we understand the areas of our shortcomings. It brings a conviction of our sins. In our daily Christian life, scripture highlights area where we are not living according to the truth of God’s Word. Take for instance, Ephesians 6:1-4 that instructs us on the relationship of parents and children, If children are disobedient to their parents or if parents have been harsh to their children, the Bible convicts us of the wrong we are in.
Correction: As we understand God’s word and come to realize where we have gone wrong, a correction is required. When we accept the reproof, God’s Word guides us to correct our ways and walk in the right path with Him. If we should confess our sins, He is faithful and just, that He may forgive us our sins and might cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
Cultivate: When our ways have been corrected, the Word of God “cultivates” (train) us in righteousness – that is to continue in a right relationship with God. The Bible guides and cultivates in us a life pleasing to God and constantly glorifying Him through our lives. “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:1-2)
The Outcome of the Word of God:
The Bible is rich with knowledge and wisdom for salvation and godly living for all who meditate on it. When we study and apply the living word in our lives we become mature servants of God, thoroughly prepared and equipped to serve the Lord according to His calling. The Bible is relevant in all circumstances and gives us every resource we need to serve Him. In our weakest moments, God’s word hidden in our heart is able to sustain us. In times of spiritual warfare, the scripture is alive and active, a powerful weapon to wield against any stronghold. When ministering to others, God’s word reveals His great love and mercy that can comfort and strengthen the broken heart. Let’s treasure the resourceful Word and be prepared to fulfil the mission He calls us to.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your infallible Word given to us. Help us to know You more each day by studying Your Word and sharing the joy of Your love and salvation with others. Amen.