2 Timothy 3:16-17
NCV: All Scripture is given by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right. Using the Scriptures, the person who serves God will be capable, having all that is needed to do every good work.
KJV: “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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
“Scripture” as used in 2 Tim. 3:16 referred to the Old Testament writing (3:15). The New Testament writings came later to put together with Old Testament, called “the Bible.” For us today, Scripture refers to the authoritative writings of the O.T. and N.T., “the Bible.” So Paul affirms that all Scripture is inspired by God. The word “inspired” comes from two Greek words: theos, meaning “God,” and pneo, meaning “to breathe.” So, “inspired” means “God-breathed.” All Scripture is therefore God-breathed; it is the very life and Word of God. [Some note from Zondervan].
Dorothy: I want to know what the dictionary would define the inspiration so I looked it up. The root meaning of the word inspire is to put thought, feeling, life, force into something. It is like arouse or influence by a divine force. The inspiration is a noun and it is more of influence of thought and strong feelings on good actions. So the commentaries note seems clearer and very exciting to realize that it is “God-breathed.” When I study this topic, I thought ‘wow, God-breathed’? I remember Peter mentioned that the “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” [2 Pet.1:21b]. I think I will continue this study on the next Fresh Manna.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, amazing that all Scripture is God-breathed from You. So studying Your Word is God-breathed. No wonder You want us to study Your Word, God-breathed. Studying Your Word cause us to feel alive, active and motivate to worship You, to love You, to sing to You and be in the fullness of Your Holy Spirit. I pray for my friends and families to get to know You as a personal God and stay in the union with You through Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!
Note: Donald C. Stamps who was a missionary in Brazil, the writer of study notes and articles and the co-workers put together The Full Life Study Bible. Donald died November 7, 1991. This Bible was a precious gift from a friend and it became a blessing to me and Tony. God bless you.
