FBC Daily Devotions

THE VALUE OF THE SCRIPTURES

Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Back when this letter was written to Timothy, the Bible as we know it today did not exist in collected and printed form. The New Testament had not yet been compiled at this time. Therefore, when Paul tells Timothy that “all Scripture is inspired by God,” he is, as in v. 15, perhaps referring to the Old Testament. Some have suggested that 2 Peter 3:16, by referring to Paul’s letters as “scripture”, Paul’s writings were placed on par with Old Testament Scripture. That view is also supported by the fact that v. 16 could equally be translated, “all inspired Scripture is God-breathed…” (rather than “all Scripture is inspired by God”). This discussion could go on for many, many pages. Regardless, at the very least, the Scriptures of the Old Testament are to be seen as valuable to us because they are “God-breathed” (NIV) or “inspired by God” (NAS). Anything that is by the hand of God (or breath for that matter) is of the utmost value to us. How sad to treat the Scriptures as manmade. In fact, when we see the Scriptures as merely scriptures (little “s”), their importance and influence begin to diminish in our lives. Think about that. The things that are most important to us will influence our decisions and our character. When God’s Holy Scriptures are seen as the very words of God to us (and whether or not this passage includes the NT is irrelevant because this principle applies to all of Scripture), we will begin to live the way God intended.

How do the Scriptures affect us? Paul says they are:

useful for teaching            
     (God’s way, KJV – doctrine)

rebuking                    
     (or reproving – the standard by which we are proven or tested)

correcting                         
     (for the purposes of restoration)

training in righteousness    
     (the equipment that helps us develop righteous living)

For what purpose?

so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Note that we are not merely equipped, but we are thoroughly equipped for every good work.

To consider: How important is God’s word in your life? Does it guide your life? Do you recognize its standard? Has it ever convicted you to change something in your life? Is it a regular part of your week to help improve your walk? When God’s word begins to soak into our minds and hearts, I suspect it affects you more than you may realize.

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Questions for Home Groups

1) Do you agree that the things we value most will influence our decisions and character? Why or why not?

2) How have you seen the Scriptures help you live a Christ-centered life?