"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
As Christians we believe that the Bible is the Word of God. However, do you know why? And if so, what are the implications of such a fact? Over the coming weeks we will look at the Word of God and see how this belief impacts our lives.
Fully Inspired
Paul, in his letter to the young pastor Timothy, makes a declaration that "All Scripture is inspired by God." In Paul's day, he would only have been referring to the Old Testament, as the New Testament was not yet finished. However, when the last book of the New Testament was written, the Canon of Scripture was considered complete, therefore, by implication the New Testament writings are included.
This means that when it comes to what we as Christians should be studying and applying to our lives is the entire Bible. All sixty-six books. Not just to parts of it we like or think are relevant for today. All is relevant.
"Inspired" is an interesting word. In fact, I prefer the ESV rendering here as it is closer to the Greek meaning of the word "breathed out by God." The Bible that we have is not just inspired by God as we tend to use the word today as merely implying that a person has been moved or roused to do something. The writers of the Bible were not merely moved to record the things of God. In terms of the modern definition, we could therefore include all writing concerning God to be inspired. No matter how good or bad the theology.
But the Bible is different. The words that we read in modern Bibles, are translations and interpretations of the very words of God breathed out by Him to the many writers of the original texts. That is why when you study the Bible from cover to cover there is a common thread that is woven throughout, there are no contradictions, and a clear message of redemption is seen from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21. No human could ever have done this if he was merely motivated to write. Just a cursory look at the many books on the market today shows thousands of variations in message and meaning. But not with the Bible.
All Aspects of Life
Paul also makes sure that there is no misunderstanding as to what areas of life the Bible applies to. Take a look at these areas of our lives it profitable for:
- Teaching: The Bible teaches us our doctrine. It is not something that we can learn from a person or from other books. The Bible is the ultimate source of all valuable knowledge. It contains scientific and historical facts, but more importantly, it gives us all the facts we need about God and how to relate to Him.
- Reproof: This is rebuking. This is a tough area for some, but when a person comes to you using God's Word to point out an error in your life, whether it be in doctrine or action, take heed, for it is God speaking to you through the Word through a person. And if you rebuke someone, make sure it is from God's Word and not your own desires or ego.
- Correction: This applies to how the Bible deals with us personally. When we read a passage that speaks directly to our heart, convicting us of sin.
- Training in Righteousness: The Bible serves as a guide to making us into the holy people God desires us to be.
Finally Paul tells us that the ultimate goal of God's Word is so that we will be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Clearly, no area of our lives are exempt from God's Word. It applies to everything, all the time.
How Do You View God's Word?
Is the Bible your guide for all areas of life or is it just something to lift your spirits? A book you read only when feeling down or at church? Does it determine your theology, thoughts, words and deeds? And do you allow it to mould you into the person God intends you to be? According to Paul, it should.
Just a Thought!
© 2012
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