The All-Sufficient Word.
by Tim Ayers.
“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 perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ).
by Tim Ayers.
“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 perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ).
Paul tells us here that God’s word meets man’s every need.
Notice these five areas of guidance for our lives:
Doctrine.
This is teaching or instruction concerning God and our duty toward Him. The Bible emphasizes doctrine (2 John 9-11 ; 1 Timothy 1:10 ; 4:6; 6:3). Only when man is willing to obey the doctrine of the Bible will he be saved (Romans 6:17-18 ).
Reproof.
This means to call to account, or point out a fault so as to convict of wrongdoing. The Bible does this when we study it, and then realize that we are all guilty of sin (Romans 3:23 ). This realization is absolutely necessary as the first step in salvation. Until one realizes his condition without God, he will put forth no effort to reach His grace and mercy through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-12 ).
Correction.
After being convicted of sin, we must then realize that the word has the power to correct us or put us back in the right way (Romans 1:16 ; Hebrews 4:12 ). The Bible shows man a better way of life which is available through obedience to God, and it encourages us to follow the path of faithful service to the Lord (Romans 12:1 ; Galatians 5:13 ).
Instruction in Righteousness.
Righteousness is right living. The Bible will urge us (if we study and listen to it) to more spiritual things and a more holy way of life (1 Peter 1:15-16 ; 2 Corinthians 7:1 ).
Perfection in God’s Service.
This does not refer to sinless perfection, but rather through obedience to the word we will receive all the necessary abilities and attributes which we must have to serve God acceptably (2 Peter 1:3 ; 1 Thessalonians 4:1 ).
Because the Bible is our sole authority and guide, we should grow in our love and appreciation for it. We must give ourselves to a more serious study of its pages (2 Timothy 2:15 ). Let us say with Samuel, “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth” (1 Samuel 3:1-10 ).
Notice these five areas of guidance for our lives:
Doctrine.
This is teaching or instruction concerning God and our duty toward Him. The Bible emphasizes doctrine (2 John 9-11 ; 1 Timothy 1:10 ; 4:6; 6:3). Only when man is willing to obey the doctrine of the Bible will he be saved (Romans 6:17-18 ).
Reproof.
This means to call to account, or point out a fault so as to convict of wrongdoing. The Bible does this when we study it, and then realize that we are all guilty of sin (Romans 3:23 ). This realization is absolutely necessary as the first step in salvation. Until one realizes his condition without God, he will put forth no effort to reach His grace and mercy through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-12 ).
Correction.
After being convicted of sin, we must then realize that the word has the power to correct us or put us back in the right way (Romans 1:16 ; Hebrews 4:12 ). The Bible shows man a better way of life which is available through obedience to God, and it encourages us to follow the path of faithful service to the Lord (Romans 12:1 ; Galatians 5:13 ).
Instruction in Righteousness.
Righteousness is right living. The Bible will urge us (if we study and listen to it) to more spiritual things and a more holy way of life (1 Peter 1:15-16 ; 2 Corinthians 7:1 ).
Perfection in God’s Service.
This does not refer to sinless perfection, but rather through obedience to the word we will receive all the necessary abilities and attributes which we must have to serve God acceptably (2 Peter 1:3 ; 1 Thessalonians 4:1 ).
Because the Bible is our sole authority and guide, we should grow in our love and appreciation for it. We must give ourselves to a more serious study of its pages (2 Timothy 2:15 ). Let us say with Samuel, “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth” (1 Samuel 3:1-10 ).
Comments
Post a Comment