Unlocking the Power of Scripture
As believers, we often turn to the Bible for guidance, comfort, and wisdom. But have you ever stopped to consider the significance of Scripture itself? In 2 Timothy 3:16, Paul writes that “all Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Let’s break down what this means and why it matters.
What Does “God-Breathed” Mean?
The phrase “breathed out by God” is a translation of the Greek word theopneustos. This compound word combines “God” (theos) and “breathe” (pneō), emphasizing the divine authority of Scripture. In other words, when we read the Bible, we’re not just reading human words – we’re reading the very words of God.
The Profitability of Scripture
Paul says that Scripture is “profitable” for four specific tasks:
- Teaching: Scripture tells us what to believe, providing sound doctrine.
- Reproof: Scripture corrects us when we’re wrong, disabusing us of unsound doctrine.
- Correction: Scripture shows us how to live right, setting us straight on our conduct.
- Training in righteousness: Scripture teaches us how to live a godly life, educating us in right living.
These four tasks form a chiasm, with the negative terms (reproof and correction) sandwiched between the positive terms (teaching and training). John Stott notes that these tasks address both creed (what we believe) and conduct (how we live).
Equipped for Every Good Work
Scripture is not just a collection of words on a page; it’s a powerful tool that equips us for every good work. In 2 Timothy 3:17, Paul writes that Scripture makes the “man of God” (or any person of God) complete, capable, and proficient. The Bible enables us to meet all demands, performing the good works that God has called us to do.
Beware the Wedge
We must be careful not to drive a wedge between the Bible and what God is doing in the world or in us. If we have God’s Word, we have everything we need for life and godliness. We have everything we need to be faithful and fruitful in the gospel.
In conclusion, Scripture is not just a book – it’s the very breath of God, equipping us for every good work. Let’s cherish it, study it, and live by its words.
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