Powerful Words -

The second letter from Paul to Timothy in the Scriptures includes a clear statement on the authority of God's Word, "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 complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16) Because the Holy Scriptures are "God-breathed," they are infallible and true in all that they affirm. His Word is sufficient to grant eternal life; "it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes." (Romans 1:16) Our faith in God is emboldened by the very reading or hearing of His Word; we ought to be stirred to greater faith and a solemn determination to walk in His ways.

The Reformation Study Bible includes this comment on the authority of Scripture, "Our ideas about God and our conduct should be measured, tested, and where necessary corrected and enlarged, by reference to the Bible." There is no aspiration or effort which comes not under the authority of the Bible.

Paul instructs Timothy, "Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching." (2 Timothy 4:2) These words are stong and gentle at the same time. Paul is clear that the Word of God should not be an interesting reading, the Scriptures are useful to convince, rebuke, and exhort; otherwise stated, God's Word should impact hearts and change lives. But Paul doesn't stop with such strong language, he urges patience and teaching. The Bible is not a club with which to knock the heads of sinners. With prayer and deliberation, we present the Truth in a manner which does not suppress the power of the Word, but our manner urges a proper reverence for God and need of conformity to His desires.

As we strive toward faithfulness in communicating the God-inspired Scriptures, may we diligently pray that He would be glorified and exalted and that we would not distract, with our manner, from His Truth.