A Tribute to the Bible Part 1
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible is the most precious book ever given to mankind. Every chapter, verse and word is given to us for a specific purpose and each has a distinct meaning. Man has tried to alter its meaning to fit their lifestyles throughout the ages but, “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” (Psalm 119:89)
I will begin this series of writings with the definitions of the four uses that Paul wrote of in 2nd Timothy chapter 3 verse 16 and then will continue with some other writings that will pertain to this subject.
Doctrine - What is taught (“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32) It is important to teach and believe the truth for this is the only way that we may be saved. Christ said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Reproof - Blame directed to one personally because of being guilty. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God: (Romans 3:23) Reproof is given that we may know that we need the Lord Jesus Christ to forgive us of our sins and that we may walk a Christian life that is pleasing unto him. The Bible says in 1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Correction - The act of bringing back from error or sin. To chastise and discipline. To rebuke. (1Timothy 5:20 “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.”) Correction, when accepted and acknowledged, will restore things to their proper uses and place. After King David had committed sin with Bathsheba, the Lord sent him rebuke for his sin by the prophet Nathan. David acknowledged his sin that he had committed and wrote Psalm 51 in which he acknowleged it unto God, repented, and asked the Lord to restore his joy of thy salvation, which the Lord did.
Instruction in righteousness - The act of informing or communicating religious and spiritual knowledge. The Apostle Paul wrote in several places about how to communicate. Ephesian 4:29, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers.” 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.” As Christians, we should be able to communicate to those that are lost the way of salvation and to be able to encourage the weak that our strength and help cometh from the Lord. We get this from the Scripture.
God Bless each of you and we will continue with Part 2 next. Bro. Shayne
