2
Timothy 3:16-17 “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.”
The 1828 Webster’s dictionary
defines the word “perfect” as; To finish or complete so as to leave nothing
wanting; consummate; not defective; having all that is requisite to its nature
and kind. Fully informed; completely skilled; as men perfect in the use of
arms; perfect in discipline. Complete in moral excellencies. This Bible Study that I attended said that the word “perfect” in
this verse is Greek word “artios”, and it is used only this one time in
the Bible. Its basic meaning seems to be “fitted.” Then, the words “thoroughly
furnished” are one word, “exartizo”, in the original, which, interestingly
enough, is essentially this same rare word (artios) with the prefix ex (meaning
“out of”) added. It is only used one other time, where it is translated
“accomplished” in Acts 21:5.
Putting
these concepts together, Paul seems to be saying that the “man or woman of God”
is not necessarily a person who is “sinlessly perfect”, but one who is both
fresh (ready to meet present needs) and fully equipped (able to meet
present needs). And, of course, it is significant that this splendid testimony
to what a man and woman of God can be—and should be—follows
immediately upon Paul’s grand testimony to the inspiration and power of the
Holy Scriptures. The Scriptures, first of all, “are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in
Christ Jesus” – 2 Timothy 3:15. Then, they are “profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”.
“Doctrine,”
more specifically, is teaching. “Reproof” is evidence or conviction.
“Correction” is a word used only this one time, and it means setting straight.
“Instruction” is chastening – to correct, and to purify from errors or
faults for the purpose of retoring one to an upright position. Then, the end
result of the perfect teachings, the convicting evidences, the correcting
influences, and the chastening cleansing of the Holy Scriptures is to produce
men and women of God who are both ready and able to meet the critical
needs of the times in which they live. By the same token, the large numbers of
nominal Christians who do not diligently study, obey, and apply the Holy
Scriptures in their lives are not either ready or able to face the awful
challenges of these last days.
Have a blessed day, Brian
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