2 Tim 3:16
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God."
The Greek word for "inspiration" is theopneustos, which is made up of theos (God) and pneo (to breathe), thus God-Breathed. This signifies that every word of Scripture is not merely the product of human effort but is divinely inspired and carries the authority of God Himself.
When Paul wrote these words, he was referring to all the Scripture written up to that time, which includes the Bible as we have it today, with the exception of 2 Timothy itself. Although some may debate the inclusion of the Apocrypha, it is important to note that Paul's focus was on the Hebrew Scriptures, as the Apocrypha was introduced along with the LXX and is not part of the original Hebrew canon.
In the preceding verse, Paul reminds Timothy of his upbringing in The Holy Scriptures, which have the power to make one wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Tim. 3:15). Timothy had access to all the Scriptures except for this final Epistle, which now he had in his possession.
The fact that all the Scriptures are God-Breathed emphasizes their divine origin and authority. Furthermore, Paul adds that they are profitable for various purposes:
"And is profitable..." (2 Tim 3:16)
The profitability of the Scriptures lies in their ability to reveal the unsearchable riches of Christ and to provide guidance, instruction, and equipment for believers.
The Scriptures are profitable in the following ways:
1. For Doctrine: The Scriptures contain essential teachings and principles. For example, the Book of Ephesians, especially chapters 1-3, provides profound insights into The Dispensation of The Mystery, while Colossians expounds on various doctrinal truths.
2. For Reproof: The Word of God has the power to convict and reprove when it is believed and accepted. It serves as a source of conviction and correction, leading to a transformation of heart and mind.
3. For Correction: The Scriptures have the ability to set things right and restore what is broken or misguided. Just as a rudder and compass can correct the course of a ship, the inspired Word of God corrects and guides believers back to the right path.
4. For Instruction in Righteousness: The Scriptures provide discipline and teaching that enable believers to live in accordance with God's righteousness. While the law revealed God's righteousness to Israel, the work of Christ ushered in a new era of grace where believers are imputed with the righteousness of Christ. However, there is also practical righteousness to be practiced in the daily walk of a Christian.
"That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." (2 Tim 3:17)
The ultimate goal of the Scriptures is to equip believers for every good work and to bring them to a state of spiritual maturity. The term "perfect" here means to be filled, while "furnished" means equipped. Thus, the Scriptures are designed to fill and equip believers for a life of righteousness and good works.
For a clearer understanding, let us combine the first and last verses:
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, . . .
. . . that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." (2 Tim 3:16-17)
By exploring the divine inspiration and profitability of Scripture, we can deepen our understanding of its significance in our lives. The Word of God serves as a guide, a teacher, and a source of wisdom that enables us to live out our faith and fulfill God's purposes. Let us cherish and study the Scriptures, allowing them to transform us and equip us for every good work.
