2 Timothy 3:16
Verse
Context
All Scripture Is God-Breathed
15From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness,17so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God - This sentence is not well translated; the original πασα γραφη θεοκνευστος ωφιλιμος προς διδασκαλιαν, κ. τ. λ. should be rendered: Every writing Divinely inspired is profitable for doctrine, etc. The particle και, and, is omitted by almost all the versions and many of the fathers, and certainly does not agree well with the text. The apostle is here, beyond all controversy, speaking of the writings of the Old Testament, which, because they came by Divine inspiration, he terms the Holy Scriptures, Ti2 3:15; and it is of them alone that this passage is to be understood; and although all the New Testament came by as direct an inspiration as the Old, yet, as it was not collected at that time, not indeed complete, the apostle could have no reference to it. The doctrine of the inspiration of the sacred writings has been a subject of much discussion, and even controversy, among Christians. There are two principal opinions on the subject: 1. That every thought and word were inspired by God, and that the writer did nothing but merely write as the Spirit dictated. 2. That God gave the whole matter, leaving the inspired writers to their own language; and hence the great variety of style and different modes of expression. But as I have treated this subject at large in my Introduction to the Four Gospels and Acts of the Apostles, I must refer the reader to that work. Is profitable for doctrine - To teach the will of God, and to point out Jesus Christ till he should come. For reproof - To convince men of the truth; and to confound those who should deny it, particularly the Jews. For correction - Προς επανορθωσιν· For restoring things to their proper uses and places, correcting false notions and mistaken views. Instruction in righteousness - Προς παιδειαν την εν δικαιοσυνῃ. For communicating all initiatory religious knowledge; for schooling mankind. All this is perfectly true of the Jewish Scriptures; and let faith in Christ Jesus be added, see Ti2 3:15, and then all that is spoken in the following verse will be literally accomplished.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
All scripture--Greek, "Every Scripture," that is, Scripture in its every part. However, English Version is sustained, though the Greek article be wanting, by the technical use of the term "Scripture" being so well known as not to need the article (compare Greek, Eph 3:15; Eph 2:21). The Greek is never used of writings in general, but only of the sacred Scriptures. The position of the two Greek adjectives closely united by "and," forbids our taking the one as an epithet, the other as predicated and translated as ALFORD and ELLICOTT. "Every Scripture given by inspiration of God is also profitable." Vulgate and the best manuscripts, favor English Version. Clearly the adjectives are so closely connected that as surely as one is a predicate, the other must be so too. ALFORD admits his translation to be harsh, though legitimate. It is better with English Version to take it in a construction legitimate, and at the same time not harsh. The Greek, "God-inspired," is found nowhere else. Most of the New Testament books were written when Paul wrote this his latest Epistle: so he includes in the clause "All Scripture is God-inspired," not only the Old Testament, in which alone Timothy was taught when a child (Ti2 3:15), but the New Testament books according as they were recognized in the churches which had men gifted with "discerning of spirits," and so able to distinguish really inspired utterances, persons, and so their writings from spurious. Paul means, "All Scripture is God-inspired and therefore useful"; because we see no utility in any words or portion of it, it does not follow it is not God-inspired. It is useful, because God-inspired; not God-inspired, because useful. One reason for the article not being before the Greek, "Scripture," may be that, if it had, it might be supposed that it limited the sense to the hiera grammata, "Holy Scriptures" (Ti2 3:15) of the Old Testament, whereas here the assertion is more general: "all Scripture" (compare Greek, Pe2 1:20). The translation, "all Scripture that is God-inspired is also useful," would imply that there is some Scripture which is not God-inspired. But this would exclude the appropriated sense of the word "Scripture"; and who would need to be told that "all divine Scripture is useful ('profitable')?" Heb 4:13 would, in ALFORD'S view, have to be rendered, "All naked things are also open to the eyes of Him," &c.: so also Ti1 4:4, which would be absurd [TREGELLES, Remarks on the Prophetic Visions of the Book of Daniel]. Knapp well defines inspiration, "An extraordinary divine agency upon teachers while giving instruction, whether oral or written, by which they were taught how and what they should speak or write" (compare Sa2 23:1; Act 4:25; Pe2 1:21). The inspiration gives the divine sanction to all the words of Scripture, though those words be the utterances of the individual writer, and only in special cases revealed directly by God (Co1 2:13). Inspiration is here predicated of the writings, "all Scripture," not of the persons. The question is not how God has done it; it is as to the word, not the men who wrote it. What we must believe is that He has done it, and that all the sacred writings are every where inspired, though not all alike matter of special revelation: and that even the very words are stamped with divine sanction, as Jesus used them (for example in the temptation and Joh 10:34-35), for deciding all questions of doctrine and practice. There are degrees of revelation in Scripture, but not of inspiration. The sacred writers did not even always know the full significancy of their own God-inspired words (Pe1 1:10-12). Verbal inspiration does not mean mechanical dictation, but all "Scripture is (so) inspired by God," that everything in it, its narratives, prophecies, citations, the whole--ideas, phrases, and words--are such as He saw fit to be there. The present condition of the text is no ground for concluding against the original text being inspired, but is a reason why we should use all critical diligence to restore the original inspired text. Again, inspiration may be accompanied by revelation or not, but it is as much needed for writing known doctrines or facts authoritatively, as for communicating new truths [TREGELLES]. The omission here of the substantive verb is,' I think, designed to mark that, not only the Scripture then existing, but what was still to be written till the canon should be completed, is included as God-inspired. The Old Testament law was the schoolmaster to bring us to Christ; so it is appropriately said to be "able to make wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus Christ": the term wisdom being appropriated to a knowledge of the relations between the Old and New Testaments, and opposed to the pretended wisdom of the false teachers (Ti1 1:7-8). doctrine--Greek, "teaching," that is, teaching the ignorant dogmatic truths which they cannot otherwise know. He so uses the Old Testament, Rom 1:17. reproof--"refutation," convicting the erring of their error. Including polemical divinity. As an example of this use of the Old Testament, compare Gal 3:6, Gal 3:13, Gal 3:16. "Doctrine and reproof" comprehend the speculative parts of divinity. Next follow the practical: Scripture is profitable for: (1) correction (Greek, "setting one right"; compare an example, Co1 10:1-10) and instruction (Greek, "disciplining," as a father does his child, see on Ti2 2:25; Eph 6:4; Heb 12:5, Heb 12:11, or "training" by instruction, warning, example, kindnesses, promises, and chastisements; compare an example, Co1 5:13). Thus the whole science of theology is complete in Scripture. Since Paul is speaking of Scripture in general and in the notion of it, the only general reason why, in order to perfecting the godly (Ti2 3:17), it should extend to every department of revealed truth, must be that it was intended to be the complete and sufficient rule in all things touching perfection. See Article VI, Common Prayer Book. in--Greek, "instruction which is in righteousness," as contrasted with the "instruction" in worldly rudiments (Col 2:20, Col 2:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That the man of God may be perfect,.... By the man of God may be meant everyone that in a special relation belongs to God; who is chosen by God the Father, redeemed by the Son, and called by the Spirit; but more especially a minister of the Gospel; for as it was usual to call a prophet under the Old Testament by this name, it seems to be transferred from thence to a minister of the New Testament, see Ti1 6:11 and the design of the Scriptures and the end of writing them are, that both preachers of the word, and hearers of it, might have a perfect knowledge of the will of God; that the former might be a complete minister of the Gospel, and that nothing might be wanting for the information of the latter: thoroughly furnished unto all good works, or "every good work"; particularly to the work of the ministry, which is a good one; and to every part and branch of it, a thorough furniture for which lies in the holy Scriptures; from whence, as scribes well instructed in the kingdom of heaven, do Gospel ministers bring forth things new and old, both for delight and profit: though this may be also applied to all good works in common, which the Scriptures point unto, give directions about, as well as show where strength is to be had to perform them. Next: 2 Timothy Chapter 4
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:16-17 These verses elaborate on 3:15 by explaining Scripture’s effectiveness, its source, and the ways that it gives wisdom to live out our salvation. Paul was speaking of the Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament), but his statement can now apply to all Scripture, including the New Testament (see, e.g., 2 Pet 3:15-16). 3:16 The fact that Scripture is inspired by God (literally God-breathed, breathed out by God’s own speech; see also Heb 4:12-13; 2 Pet 1:20-21) does not negate the active involvement of the human authors. But it does affirm that God is fully responsible for his word. Scripture is true, reliable, authoritative, permanent, and powerful because it comes from God himself. Its message is coherent, and it is consistent in its testimony about Jesus Christ (see Luke 24:25-27, 44; John 5:39-40; Acts 3:24; 1 Cor 15:3-4). Thus it has the power to bring salvation and elicit faith. It must not be abused, as the false teachers had been doing (2 Tim 4:2-4; 1 Tim 1:4-7; cp. 2 Pet 3:16), but must be taught properly (2 Tim 2:2, 15). • As a consequence of inspiration, all Scripture is useful. Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are together our guide and teacher in life.
2 Timothy 3:16
All Scripture Is God-Breathed
15From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness,17so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews) 6-Noah
By Leonard Ravenhill15K1:16:04NoahGEN 6:132TI 3:16HEB 2:1HEB 3:1HEB 11:1HEB 11:6REV 1:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of faith in pleasing God. He emphasizes that without faith, it is impossible to please God. The speaker also highlights the concept of worshiping God by gazing upon His attributes and redemptive work in Jesus Christ. The sermon mentions the example of Enoch, who cried out to the people about God's judgment, but was ignored. The speaker concludes by reminding the audience that faith is what enables individuals to achieve great things and overcome challenges.
No Man Is Greater Than His Prayer Life
By Leonard Ravenhill15K1:24:25Prayer Life1KI 17:1LUK 11:12TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the life of Elijah, whom he considers one of the greatest men in history. He highlights the miraculous events and accomplishments of Elijah, such as changing the climate, raising the dead, and subduing armies. Despite these extraordinary feats, the speaker emphasizes that God summarizes Elijah's life in two simple words: "he prayed." The speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in a person's life and believes that a person's greatness is determined by their prayer life.
Knowing Jesus
By Major Ian Thomas14K46:15KnowingMAT 6:33MAT 13:53ACT 17:11ROM 10:17EPH 1:72TI 3:16HEB 9:22In this sermon, the preacher addresses the idea that many people have been "house trained" or "brainwashed" into thinking that once they make a decision to follow God and attend church on Sundays, that is all that is required of them. However, the preacher emphasizes that true Christian faith goes beyond just attending church and making a decision. He encourages those who are truly interested in the Christian life to seek a deeper understanding of their faith and to let God work through them to impact the lives of others. The preacher also highlights the importance of trusting in Jesus Christ and allowing Him to guide every aspect of our lives. He warns that there may be some who will not continue on this journey and will never return, but he is hopeful to meet those who are genuinely seeking to know Jesus and live out their faith fully.
The Power of God - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman11K30:04PowerISA 40:9LUK 12:48JHN 4:24ACT 2:17ROM 8:261CO 15:532TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the power of the Holy Spirit and the need for believers to be led by the Spirit. They emphasize the importance of humility and caution against spiritual pride and bigotry. The speaker also encourages listeners to have a positive mindset and see their current time as their greatest hour. They mention the manifestation of miracles and the closing moments of this dispensation, suggesting that the Holy Spirit is at work in these times.
Authority and God's Word - Part 1
By Derek Prince10K26:06PSA 12:6MAT 4:4MAT 5:17JHN 10:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:13EPH 6:172TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the authority of Scripture, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit. It discusses the importance of accepting the entire Bible as profitable and authoritative, not just selective parts. The sermon also delves into Jesus' attitude towards Scripture, showcasing how He used it to overcome temptation and fulfill God's Word. Additionally, it explores the role of the Holy Spirit as the ultimate interpreter and guide in understanding Scripture.
An Habitation of God
By David Wilkerson8.5K1:01:27Habitation of GodPSA 119:105JER 3:12EPH 2:182TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes Jesus' anticipation and delight in the future. Jesus rejoices over those who forsake all others and cling only to him, seeking him daily and spending quality time with him. He shares his secrets with them and promises to bring them up and be with them. The preacher encourages the audience to study the word of God, particularly the Psalms and the epistles, and to make room for God to work miracles in their lives. The sermon concludes with a call for confession and a plea for forgiveness and spiritual awakening.
The Man Who Kept on Running
By Warren Wiersbe7.8K44:252TI 3:16HEB 1:1HEB 2:9HEB 6:1HEB 12:2HEB 13:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of living a life of faith and surrendering to God. He uses examples from the Bible, such as Isaac and Jacob, to show that even though they faced challenges and doubts, God still used them for His purposes. The speaker also emphasizes the need to lay aside any burdens or weights that hinder our spiritual growth. He encourages listeners to focus on the joy that awaits them in heaven and the place that Jesus has prepared for them.
If My People
By Curtis Hutson7.6K39:13Revival2CH 7:14PSA 51:17MAT 6:33JHN 15:52TI 3:16HEB 13:8JAS 4:6In this sermon, the preacher shares two stories to emphasize the importance of approaching the platform with confidence and faith. He encourages the congregation to start a fire in their hearts and unite in prayer to bring revival to their church and nation. The preacher emphasizes that God is still powerful and capable of working miracles today. He references 2 Chronicles 7:14, where God promises to hear and heal if His people humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their wicked ways. The preacher challenges the congregation to believe in the power of God's promises and take action to bring about revival.
Ii Timothy - Part 2 - Proclaim the Gospel
By John Stott7.4K48:20ProclaimPRO 15:1MAT 6:332TI 3:162TI 4:22TI 4:7In this sermon, Reverend John R. focuses on the importance of preaching the word of God. He emphasizes that our proclamation should be urgent, never losing our sense of urgency in sharing the message. The word of God, which consists of the Old Testament scriptures and the gospel, is a treasure that we are charged to proclaim. Reverend John R. concludes by reminding us of Paul's last words, expressing the desire for the Lord to be with us and for grace to be with us.
A Bad Family Tree
By Jim Cymbala6.6K33:56FamilyPSA 32:5MAT 2:4JHN 3:162TI 3:16REV 5:5REV 21:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the reason why Jesus had to come. He highlights the guilt and shame that sin brings and uses the story of Tamar to illustrate this. The speaker also discusses how Jesus can not only forgive our past sins but also transform us into new people. He concludes by emphasizing that it doesn't matter what we have been or what our current state is, what matters is what God can make us into.
Knowing God
By Anne Graham Lotz5.5K1:12:40Knowing GodGEN 1:1MAT 6:33ACT 17:112TI 3:161JN 1:11JN 2:1The video is a sermon on the topic of knowing God, with four main points. The first point is that knowing God begins with a personal experience with Jesus Christ, as stated in 1 John 1:1-4. The speaker emphasizes that John, the Apostle, had personally seen, heard, and touched Jesus, whom he refers to as the "word of life." The second point is that God has revealed Himself through His Word, the Bible, allowing us to know His character. The speaker mentions Revelation 4:1-3, where John describes a vision of heaven, highlighting the importance of immersing ourselves in God's Word. The third point is that as believers living in the last days, we should eagerly anticipate the return of Jesus Christ, as mentioned in numerous verses in the New Testament. The fourth point is a personal testimony from the speaker, who witnessed the unjust treatment and crucifixion of Jesus, emphasizing the sacrifice and suffering He endured for humanity.
Shocking Youth Message Stuns Hearers
By Paul Washer5.4K1:03:561SA 6:19MAT 6:33MAT 7:13MAT 7:16ACT 17:302TI 3:161JN 2:15In this sermon, the preacher questions why so many people claim to have encountered Jesus Christ but are not permanently changed. He emphasizes the importance of genuine transformation and warns against repeatedly rededicating one's life without true fruit-bearing. The preacher highlights the need to bear good fruit and warns that those who do not bear fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. He concludes by urging the audience to build their lives on the rock of Jesus' teachings and not on the shifting sands of the world.
Death & Resurrection
By T. Austin-Sparks5.4K30:55DeathNEH 8:8PSA 119:18PSA 119:105ISA 43:25JHN 16:13ACT 1:82TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the central message of the New Testament is about Jesus Christ. The focus is on his crucifixion and resurrection, which is highlighted in all four narratives of his life. The speaker also points out that while only a few people claim to have seen Jesus after his resurrection, the majority of early Christians lived their lives based on the reality of this event. The sermon emphasizes the importance of personally experiencing the power of Jesus' resurrection and continually seeking to know him more deeply.
Being a Witness: How to Do It?
By Paul Washer5.4K1:29:46Witnessing2TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building relationships and taking the time to explain the gospel clearly to others. He shares an example of a pastor working in a Muslim country and highlights the need for believers to love the Lord with all their heart and love their neighbor as themselves. The speaker emphasizes the sufficiency of the Bible in addressing spiritual problems and encourages the use of scripture in helping others. He also challenges listeners to prioritize the great commission over personal desires and to use their gifts and strengths for the sake of spreading the gospel.
The Roots of the Emergent Church
By Francis Schaeffer5.3K06:35PSA 119:105JHN 14:6JHN 17:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12This sermon delves into the historical shift away from the early church's emphasis on the Bible as the sole authority to the Middle Ages where authority was divided between the Bible and the church. It explores the impact of Thomas Aquinas' reintroduction of Aristotle's teachings, leading to a blend of biblical and non-Christian philosophy, and the subsequent questioning of the necessity of the Bible. The sermon highlights the importance of returning to the foundational belief in the Bible as the supreme authority, as exemplified by figures like John Wycliffe and John Hus, emphasizing the centrality of Christ's work and the absolute truth found in God's Word.
(Job: An Epic in Brokenness) 1. in the Crucible of Suffering
By Roy Hession5.2K51:58BrokennessJOB 1:1JOB 42:12PRO 3:5MAT 6:332TI 3:162PE 2:211JN 1:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fourth test that Job faced, which was the counsel of his three friends. These friends, who were oriental philosophers, constantly implied that Job had done something wrong to deserve his suffering. Despite the loss of his wealth, children, and health, the words of his friends proved to be a greater trial for Job. The sermon also mentions the dialogue between Job and his friends, as well as the introduction of another voice, Elihu, and ultimately God himself.
The Human Face of God
By David Wilkerson4.9K55:00MAT 23:33JHN 20:19JHN 21:1ROM 2:41TI 2:42TI 3:162TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching both the goodness and severity of God to produce a healthy congregation. He highlights the human face of God as seen in Christ, which is characterized by unconditional love and kindness. The preacher emphasizes the need for a personal relationship with God, where we are called to love Him above all else. He shares the testimony of Nikki Cruz, who attributes his long-lasting faith to his love for Jesus. The preacher also mentions that Jesus chose three special manifestations to reveal who God is to his disciples. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to express their love for Jesus and acknowledge His faithfulness.
Every Branch in Me That Beareth Not Fruit
By Keith Daniel4.8K1:08:28Bearing FruitMAT 6:33JHN 15:22TI 3:16HEB 12:61PE 5:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the transformative power of the word of God, stating that it can change every priority in one's life. The speaker highlights the importance of being cleansed by God's word and emphasizes a crucial verse in the Bible that is vital for every Christian. The sermon then delves into the concept of abiding in Christ, even in the midst of sorrows and trials. The speaker shares a personal experience of feeling down and smashed, but ultimately finds solace in the passage from John 15, where Jesus refers to himself as the true vine and believers as branches. The sermon concludes by discussing the refining process of trials and the assurance that no power of darkness or evil can touch believers unless permitted by God.
Authority and the Power of God's Word - Part 1
By Derek Prince4.5K26:06GEN 3:1PSA 12:6MAT 4:4MAT 5:18MAT 22:31JHN 10:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:13EPH 6:172TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the authority of the Bible, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit, making it profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. It stresses the importance of consulting the author, the Holy Spirit, for interpreting Scripture and addresses the fallibility of human authors by showcasing how the Word of God is purified by the Holy Spirit. Jesus' attitude towards the Bible is examined, showcasing His reliance on Scripture to combat temptation and His acknowledgment of the written Word's absolute authority. The sermon also delves into how Jesus' life fulfilled Scripture and the authority behind the New Testament, which is the Holy Spirit guiding the apostles into all truth.
A Call to Return to God
By A.W. Tozer4.1K51:07Return To GodISA 30:21LUK 4:27ROM 8:1ROM 8:282TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's word in our lives. He refers to a verse in the Bible that talks about God's promise to bring rivers to the mountains and streams to the hills for His people. The preacher believes that God will perform miracles for His people and make their lives brighter than ever before. He also discusses the tendency to overlook what is right with us and encourages the congregation to take time out to reflect on their spiritual state.
Puritan Evangelism
By Al Martin4.0K1:20:28GEN 1:1ISA 59:2MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 3:241CO 3:132TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing his personal journey into ministry and the importance of preaching the word of God. He then quotes J.I. Packer and Thomas Manton to emphasize the true essence of the gospel, which involves repentance, faith, reconciliation with God, and the promise of eternal happiness for believers. The speaker highlights the symmetry and doctrinal depth of Puritan evangelism, contrasting it with the shortcomings of modern evangelism. He emphasizes the need for a scriptural and theological approach to preaching, clearly defining concepts such as sin and its consequences.
(Titus - Part 9): Qualifications for Church Leadership Iii
By A.W. Tozer4.0K33:31TitusPSA 19:1MAT 6:33JHN 14:61CO 2:9EPH 4:142TI 3:16TIT 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the absolute nature of the word of God. He describes it as a divine revelation that tells us what we need to know about God, although it does not reveal everything. The preacher emphasizes the importance of not compromising or modifying the teachings of the Bible. He also criticizes the tendency of some Americans to take their democracy for granted and adopt borrowed convictions without critical thinking. The preacher concludes by stating that true faith is not mere conformity, but a personal belief that is passed down from generation to generation.
Holy Spirit Given From Heaven
By A.W. Tozer3.7K43:41Holy SpiritJHN 3:271CO 2:91CO 2:141CO 2:162TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obeying God and following the teachings of the scriptures. He shares a personal anecdote about a man who was converted to Christianity during one of his sermons. The preacher also mentions a time when he preached on a different topic but still had a powerful impact on the audience. He highlights the need for the Holy Spirit to reveal spiritual truths to us, as our natural intellect is unable to comprehend them. The preacher encourages listeners to open their hearts to God and seek His guidance in understanding spiritual matters.
A Godly Pattern
By Bill McLeod3.6K57:00Godly PatternMAT 6:33MRK 11:221TI 4:122TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the trials and sufferings that believers may face in their lives. He emphasizes the importance of having faith and not complaining, as everything is in the hands of God. The speaker also highlights the verse that states that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in believers. He encourages listeners to be content with food and clothing and to not neglect the needs of others. The sermon concludes with the reminder that believers are constantly being watched and should strive to live in a way that reflects their faith.
Where Does It Lie
By A.W. Tozer3.6K42:36Christian LifeISA 1:2ISA 2:22MAT 16:24JHN 14:15ROM 3:23ROM 6:232TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker uses a metaphor of a ship carrying valuable cargo to illustrate the dangers of being led astray by false teachings and sinful behaviors. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to the word of God and not being swayed by worldly influences. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about a confrontation with a policeman to highlight the need for authority to meet certain conditions and for individuals to stand up for their rights. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of seeking truth and avoiding traps that can lead us away from God's path.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God - This sentence is not well translated; the original πασα γραφη θεοκνευστος ωφιλιμος προς διδασκαλιαν, κ. τ. λ. should be rendered: Every writing Divinely inspired is profitable for doctrine, etc. The particle και, and, is omitted by almost all the versions and many of the fathers, and certainly does not agree well with the text. The apostle is here, beyond all controversy, speaking of the writings of the Old Testament, which, because they came by Divine inspiration, he terms the Holy Scriptures, Ti2 3:15; and it is of them alone that this passage is to be understood; and although all the New Testament came by as direct an inspiration as the Old, yet, as it was not collected at that time, not indeed complete, the apostle could have no reference to it. The doctrine of the inspiration of the sacred writings has been a subject of much discussion, and even controversy, among Christians. There are two principal opinions on the subject: 1. That every thought and word were inspired by God, and that the writer did nothing but merely write as the Spirit dictated. 2. That God gave the whole matter, leaving the inspired writers to their own language; and hence the great variety of style and different modes of expression. But as I have treated this subject at large in my Introduction to the Four Gospels and Acts of the Apostles, I must refer the reader to that work. Is profitable for doctrine - To teach the will of God, and to point out Jesus Christ till he should come. For reproof - To convince men of the truth; and to confound those who should deny it, particularly the Jews. For correction - Προς επανορθωσιν· For restoring things to their proper uses and places, correcting false notions and mistaken views. Instruction in righteousness - Προς παιδειαν την εν δικαιοσυνῃ. For communicating all initiatory religious knowledge; for schooling mankind. All this is perfectly true of the Jewish Scriptures; and let faith in Christ Jesus be added, see Ti2 3:15, and then all that is spoken in the following verse will be literally accomplished.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
All scripture--Greek, "Every Scripture," that is, Scripture in its every part. However, English Version is sustained, though the Greek article be wanting, by the technical use of the term "Scripture" being so well known as not to need the article (compare Greek, Eph 3:15; Eph 2:21). The Greek is never used of writings in general, but only of the sacred Scriptures. The position of the two Greek adjectives closely united by "and," forbids our taking the one as an epithet, the other as predicated and translated as ALFORD and ELLICOTT. "Every Scripture given by inspiration of God is also profitable." Vulgate and the best manuscripts, favor English Version. Clearly the adjectives are so closely connected that as surely as one is a predicate, the other must be so too. ALFORD admits his translation to be harsh, though legitimate. It is better with English Version to take it in a construction legitimate, and at the same time not harsh. The Greek, "God-inspired," is found nowhere else. Most of the New Testament books were written when Paul wrote this his latest Epistle: so he includes in the clause "All Scripture is God-inspired," not only the Old Testament, in which alone Timothy was taught when a child (Ti2 3:15), but the New Testament books according as they were recognized in the churches which had men gifted with "discerning of spirits," and so able to distinguish really inspired utterances, persons, and so their writings from spurious. Paul means, "All Scripture is God-inspired and therefore useful"; because we see no utility in any words or portion of it, it does not follow it is not God-inspired. It is useful, because God-inspired; not God-inspired, because useful. One reason for the article not being before the Greek, "Scripture," may be that, if it had, it might be supposed that it limited the sense to the hiera grammata, "Holy Scriptures" (Ti2 3:15) of the Old Testament, whereas here the assertion is more general: "all Scripture" (compare Greek, Pe2 1:20). The translation, "all Scripture that is God-inspired is also useful," would imply that there is some Scripture which is not God-inspired. But this would exclude the appropriated sense of the word "Scripture"; and who would need to be told that "all divine Scripture is useful ('profitable')?" Heb 4:13 would, in ALFORD'S view, have to be rendered, "All naked things are also open to the eyes of Him," &c.: so also Ti1 4:4, which would be absurd [TREGELLES, Remarks on the Prophetic Visions of the Book of Daniel]. Knapp well defines inspiration, "An extraordinary divine agency upon teachers while giving instruction, whether oral or written, by which they were taught how and what they should speak or write" (compare Sa2 23:1; Act 4:25; Pe2 1:21). The inspiration gives the divine sanction to all the words of Scripture, though those words be the utterances of the individual writer, and only in special cases revealed directly by God (Co1 2:13). Inspiration is here predicated of the writings, "all Scripture," not of the persons. The question is not how God has done it; it is as to the word, not the men who wrote it. What we must believe is that He has done it, and that all the sacred writings are every where inspired, though not all alike matter of special revelation: and that even the very words are stamped with divine sanction, as Jesus used them (for example in the temptation and Joh 10:34-35), for deciding all questions of doctrine and practice. There are degrees of revelation in Scripture, but not of inspiration. The sacred writers did not even always know the full significancy of their own God-inspired words (Pe1 1:10-12). Verbal inspiration does not mean mechanical dictation, but all "Scripture is (so) inspired by God," that everything in it, its narratives, prophecies, citations, the whole--ideas, phrases, and words--are such as He saw fit to be there. The present condition of the text is no ground for concluding against the original text being inspired, but is a reason why we should use all critical diligence to restore the original inspired text. Again, inspiration may be accompanied by revelation or not, but it is as much needed for writing known doctrines or facts authoritatively, as for communicating new truths [TREGELLES]. The omission here of the substantive verb is,' I think, designed to mark that, not only the Scripture then existing, but what was still to be written till the canon should be completed, is included as God-inspired. The Old Testament law was the schoolmaster to bring us to Christ; so it is appropriately said to be "able to make wise unto salvation through faith in Jesus Christ": the term wisdom being appropriated to a knowledge of the relations between the Old and New Testaments, and opposed to the pretended wisdom of the false teachers (Ti1 1:7-8). doctrine--Greek, "teaching," that is, teaching the ignorant dogmatic truths which they cannot otherwise know. He so uses the Old Testament, Rom 1:17. reproof--"refutation," convicting the erring of their error. Including polemical divinity. As an example of this use of the Old Testament, compare Gal 3:6, Gal 3:13, Gal 3:16. "Doctrine and reproof" comprehend the speculative parts of divinity. Next follow the practical: Scripture is profitable for: (1) correction (Greek, "setting one right"; compare an example, Co1 10:1-10) and instruction (Greek, "disciplining," as a father does his child, see on Ti2 2:25; Eph 6:4; Heb 12:5, Heb 12:11, or "training" by instruction, warning, example, kindnesses, promises, and chastisements; compare an example, Co1 5:13). Thus the whole science of theology is complete in Scripture. Since Paul is speaking of Scripture in general and in the notion of it, the only general reason why, in order to perfecting the godly (Ti2 3:17), it should extend to every department of revealed truth, must be that it was intended to be the complete and sufficient rule in all things touching perfection. See Article VI, Common Prayer Book. in--Greek, "instruction which is in righteousness," as contrasted with the "instruction" in worldly rudiments (Col 2:20, Col 2:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That the man of God may be perfect,.... By the man of God may be meant everyone that in a special relation belongs to God; who is chosen by God the Father, redeemed by the Son, and called by the Spirit; but more especially a minister of the Gospel; for as it was usual to call a prophet under the Old Testament by this name, it seems to be transferred from thence to a minister of the New Testament, see Ti1 6:11 and the design of the Scriptures and the end of writing them are, that both preachers of the word, and hearers of it, might have a perfect knowledge of the will of God; that the former might be a complete minister of the Gospel, and that nothing might be wanting for the information of the latter: thoroughly furnished unto all good works, or "every good work"; particularly to the work of the ministry, which is a good one; and to every part and branch of it, a thorough furniture for which lies in the holy Scriptures; from whence, as scribes well instructed in the kingdom of heaven, do Gospel ministers bring forth things new and old, both for delight and profit: though this may be also applied to all good works in common, which the Scriptures point unto, give directions about, as well as show where strength is to be had to perform them. Next: 2 Timothy Chapter 4
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:16-17 These verses elaborate on 3:15 by explaining Scripture’s effectiveness, its source, and the ways that it gives wisdom to live out our salvation. Paul was speaking of the Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament), but his statement can now apply to all Scripture, including the New Testament (see, e.g., 2 Pet 3:15-16). 3:16 The fact that Scripture is inspired by God (literally God-breathed, breathed out by God’s own speech; see also Heb 4:12-13; 2 Pet 1:20-21) does not negate the active involvement of the human authors. But it does affirm that God is fully responsible for his word. Scripture is true, reliable, authoritative, permanent, and powerful because it comes from God himself. Its message is coherent, and it is consistent in its testimony about Jesus Christ (see Luke 24:25-27, 44; John 5:39-40; Acts 3:24; 1 Cor 15:3-4). Thus it has the power to bring salvation and elicit faith. It must not be abused, as the false teachers had been doing (2 Tim 4:2-4; 1 Tim 1:4-7; cp. 2 Pet 3:16), but must be taught properly (2 Tim 2:2, 15). • As a consequence of inspiration, all Scripture is useful. Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are together our guide and teacher in life.