The Value of The Scriptures

II Timothy 3:13–17
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Truth
The basis of truth is not only in Paul’s example, but also in the scriptures that we now call the Old Testament. Timothy was brought up to know these scriptures by his Jewish mother and grandmother. He has also learned from Paul, whose teaching and letters will become part of the New Testament. All these scriptures are ‘God-breathed’ and expressed by His Holy Spirit through human writers. Timothy’s grandmother and mother had faithfully taught him the Old Testament Scriptures (vv. 14-15). God says that His Word offers us four eternally beneficial guideposts (vv. 16-17):

    1. Doctrine - God telling us what is right.

    2. Reproof - God showing us where we are wrong.

    3. Correction - God explaining to us how to get right with Him.

    4. Instruction in righteousness - God teaching us how to stay right with Him.

The scriptures show us the whole plan of God’s salvation. This is something we would never discover or guess by ourselves. God has always loved the world and been grieved by human sin. First he called a people, Israel, to know him. Then he gave them His law to guide them, His kings to rule them and His prophets to deliver His word. Finally He has sent His Son, Jesus, to be the Saviour of all. The scriptures not only tell us that God saves, but teach us how to live the good life. The scriptures are the main means of knowing God’s truth. They correct what is wrong and commend what is right. They lead us to a mature understanding of God’s will, and equip us for his service.

Application

It is one thing to know truth. It is another thing to live truth. It is easy to be seeking new truth but not living the truth we already know. I need the Lord’s help to be a living example of how truth needs to be lived out in each of our lives. I so desire that others might see me not only as a man who knows the Word of God but walks his talk.

II Timothy 3:13-17 (English Standard Version)


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