The Word of God (2 Timothy 3:14-17)

The Bible stands as the greatest document known to man. It has changed more lives than any other book. It bears testimony to the God of the universe.

Immanuel Kant said, “The existence of the Bible is the greatest blessing which humanity has ever experienced.”

Paul points out some lessons we need to learn about Scripture.

Scripture is Knowable, vv 14-15

Paul had just recounted his persecutions and the deeds of evil men. Paul encourages Timothy to remain steadfast in what he has learned.

Timothy had known the Scripture [the Old Testament] from his childhood. This testifies to the need for parents to teach their children. Timothy’s grandmother and mother had taught him (2 Tim. 1:5). We need parents to teach Scripture today. The Jews saw this as one of their primary responsibilities (Deut. 6:6-7). Scripture still testifies of this need (Eph. 6:4). A father can do no greater thing.

This shows that indeed the Scriptures are knowable. Some want to say that we can’t know the Scriptures, that there is no such thing as truth. They say everyone has his own interpretation. Scripture only recognizes one valid interpretation (2 Pet. 1:20-21).

Provides Salvation, v 15

Scripture can make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ. We recognize this is talking about the Old Testament. John 5:39. The Old Testament paved the way for Jesus.

The Scriptures—the Old and New Testaments—produce faith in Christ. Romans 10:17. John 20:30-31. Many people are atheists because they don’t know the Scriptures.

Salvation comes faith in Jesus. John 8:24. Hebrews 11:6.

Is God’s Message, v 16

“Inspired by God” means “God breathed.” God breathed what he wanted us to know.

The inspiration of Scripture applies even to the words of the original text. 1 Corinthians 2:13. Galatians 3:16.

Is Profitable, v 16

Scripture is useful for:

• Teaching—It can (and must be) used the teach the truth.
• Reproof—It can be used to convict a sinner.
• Correction—It can be used to show people they’re not living properly.
• Training in righteousness—It can be used as a guide to help us be better people.

Makes the Man of God Complete, v 17

Using Scripture, the man of God has what he needs to fight all the battles he faces, e.g. false doctrine, moral errors, etc.

If the Bible, makes the man of God “complete, equipped for every geed work,” why do we need anything else?

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This sermon was originally preached by Dr. Justin Imel, Sr., at the Main Street church of Christ in Pikeville, Kentucky.