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
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