“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NKJV)

The primary reference of “all scriptures” is to the Old Testament, since some of the New testament books had not even been written at this period. “Given by inspiration” (v.16) in Greek is God-breathed or God-inspired. it conveys the idea of “breathing upon, or breathing into the soul.” The idea seems to have been, that the life was in the breath, and that an intelligent spirit was communicated with the breath.

The language however, must be figurative; for God does not breathe, though we can fairly infer that those Scriptures are as much the production of God, or are as much to be traced to him, as life is. Thus, God has an active involvement in the production of those Scriptures.

Paul affirms such active involvement in the production of Scripture, an involvement so powerful and pervasive that what is produced is the infallible and authoritative word of God.

The immediate context of the passage leads us to Paul’s final appeal to Timothy. From childhood Timothy has been guided by the Scriptures, and his faith in those Scriptures gives him assurance in his salvation. He must maintain this confidence, knowing that God was actively involved in the writing of Scriptures and that they are God’s means of instructing people in right belief and right living.

Those who are well instructed in the Scriptures will always be ready when an opportunity arises to do good. In the same way, we must uphold our confidence in the Bible for it is God’s way to teach, train and instruct us so we will be equipped to do good.

Sources:

Fee, Gordon D. Stuart, Douglas. How t Read the Bible Book by Book. A Guided Tour. Manila, Philippines: OMF Literature, Inc., 2004.

MySword for Android. Riversoft Ministry, 2011-2019.

Olive Tree Bible Software, 1998-2020

Zondervan NASB Study Bible. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1999.

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