Daily Devotions
2 Timothy
"Profitable for doctrine..."
Text: 2 Timothy 3:16
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BENEFITS
The apostle Paul wanted Timothy to recognise the importance of the Scriptures in life and ministry. He highlighted four areas in which the Scriptures would benefit the careful and diligent reader! It will be worthwhile to look carefully at each of the areas highlighted.
PROFITABLE FOR DOCTRINE
Once again the word “doctrine” is mentioned first (2 Timothy 3:10). What did Paul have in mind when he highlighted how the Scriptures help in determining doctrine?
1. “For doctrine”
a) A preposition was used with the word “doctrine”.
b) In such a construction there is no need for an article to be used to make the word “doctrine” definite.
c) The preposition is well translated as “for”.
d) Another way of appreciating the preposition is to understand that it communicates a sense of purpose.
i) The Scriptures were designed for the purpose of giving doctrines or teachings.
ii) One of the goals is to establish the right doctrines to believe in.
2. The Need of good Scriptural doctrines
a) As a foundation for the Church.
i) The church needs this Biblical foundation.
ii) Where there is no foundation the structure would be weak.
iii) The Teachings of Jesus were meant to be the rock foundation for faith and life (Matthew 7:24-26).
b) As the defence of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
i) A solid defence against false teachings.
ii) A solid refuge when hard times come around.
c) As a vital source of instruction.
i) For the growth of faith.
ii) For the cultivation of a strong character.
READING THE SCRIPTURES DILIGENTLY
This is a spiritual discipline that we must seek to cultivate. Sadly, few have taken up the challenge of reading the Scriptures with great diligence. The example of the Lord Jesus stands out significantly. From a very young age, He showed great interest in acquiring knowledge of the Scriptures. By the time He ventured into public ministry He was able to speak with tremendous power and authority. Let us be deeply challenged to set aside time to read the Scriptures diligently so that we too may be greatly benefitted!