In the matter of spiritual growth, there are two distinct aspects to consider. The first is that of personal salvation, a one-time historical event, occurring when one receives Christ in repentance and faith, according to Acts 20:21. It is then that we see in John 1:12, that we become the sons of God.

Thereafter, the process of conformity to Christ, described as God's good goal for His children, called progressive sanctification, is the life- long journey on the road to spiritual maturity. Looking at 2 Timothy 3:15-17, we can see this process as the bridge (verse 16) between salvation (verse 15)and stable maturity (verse 17).

Understanding that the God breathed Scriptures are profitable for doctrine and reproof, we are able to LEARN God's ways. Thereafter, as the Scriptures reprove, we have opportunity to CHANGE the direction of our thoughts and actions in repentance. Only then are we able to follow the instruction in righteousness to GROW that is provided there, as we restructure our personal habit patterns so that we walk in the Spirit.

What a blessing to know that victory is available through Christ! (

C) 1993 N.A.Collins Copy permission limited to one personal file copy

In the marvelous mercy and grace of our loving Lord, He offers salvation from sin and eternal life in His Presence to anyone who responds to the incredible gift of His Son.  Jesus Christ, crucified, buried and risen again - the good news of the gospel!

When one has, in faith believing, received Christ as their personal Savior, the following is true regarding their position in Christ.

Isaiah 61:10 - wrapped in the robe of righteousness
Ephesians 1:6 - accepted in the Beloved
John 3:16 - everlasting life
John 1:12- child of God
Ephesians 1:7 - redemption, forgiveness
2 Peter 1:4 - partaker of the divine nature
Colossians 2:10 - complete in Christ
1 Corinthians 3:11 - solid foundation
John 8:31 - privilege of prayer
Romans 15:13 - hope, joy, peace

What mercy!  What love!  What grace!


(C) 1993 N.A.Collins - copy permission limited to one personal file copy
      (Excerpts from God's Word - My Guide - (c) 1980 N.A. Collins)

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 perfect, throughly furnished unto all goodworks.                                                                                                2 Timothy 3:16-17

All of us desire to grow spiritually, and yet, we often struggle with the "how-to" of doing so. In the ministry of intensive discipleship, to which God has called me, I have found 2 Timothy 3:16 to be invaluable in my own quest for continuing spiritual growth, as well as assisting others in that goal.  The foundational premise in that passage is that all Scripture is given by the very breath of God, and is profitable.

In what ways is it profitable? God gives 4 clear steps of action that are to be taken from his description of its profitability. The end result of those practical applications is found in verse 17...it is that the man of God might demonstrate maturity and stability.

What are the profits, and how might we employ them?

1. DOCTRINE - that which is right (seeing God as He is)

2. REPROOF - that which is wrong (seeing myself as God sees me)

3. CORRECTION - a directional turn-around (repentance)

4. INSTRUCTION - walking in the Spirit ( restructuring habit patterns)

What a blessing that God has given us the premise and the plan of the profit of His Word for His glory!!

(C) 1993 N.A.Collins Copy permission limited to one personal file copy