Bible Pathway - Dec. 10, 2011
Read 2 Timothy 1
Highlights:
Be not thou . . . ashamed of the testimony of our Lord . . . but be thou (a faithful) partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel (II Tim. 1:8). Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness (2:22). Men shall be . . . covetous . . . more than lovers of God (3:2,4). All the Bible is given as our Guide to help us gain the best God has for our lives (3:16-17).
When Paul wrote this Epistle, he knew that his life would soon end (II Tim 4:6-8), and he was deeply concerned that Timothy, his son in the faith (I Tim. 1:2), remain faithful to God. Paul knew that the Scriptures would prepare Timothy to carry out the Lord's commands (II Tim. 2:3).
The Book of II Timothy points out the all-sufficiency of the Scriptures — through the indwelling Holy Spirit — to reveal the answers to all of life's problems. Because of this, it emphasizes the importance of thoroughly studying all the Bible. As a good soldier of Jesus Christ, Timothy should expect trials and sufferings (2:3). Paul knew that for Timothy to remain faithful and strong in the midst of certain difficulties, he would need to diligently study the Word of God to gain spiritual wisdom.
The Apostle Paul left no room for doubt as to his one source of strength and guidance when he wrote: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (2:15). How emphatic! Study . . . rightly dividing the Word of Truth. We invest time, discipline, and effort in pursuing life's vocation. But our first commitment should be to God — to study His Word, that we may gain His approval.
We also must have integrity and sincerity to rightly . . . (divide) the Word so that our personal life may be brought into harmony with the will of God. Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them . . . thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (3:14-15).
The power of God is found in the Holy Scriptures. Those who choose to read through the Bible as God arranged it gain a fuller revelation of every subject. It is of utmost importance to read all of it to obtain a fuller understanding of its doctrines.
Paul also emphasized that all Scripture is necessary in order for Christians to be fully prepared to fulfill the will of God in their lives when he wrote: 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, throughly (thoroughly) furnished unto all good works (II Tim. 3:16-17).
Thought for Today:
Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (II Tim. 2:1).
Cross Reference:
For II Tim. 2:19: See Num. 16:5; also Nah. 1:7.
Word Studies:
2:4 entangleth himself, becomes involved; 2:23 gender strifes, create or initiate quarrels or arguments; 3:3 incontinent, without self-control; 4:15 be thou ware, be aware, be on guard.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Officials: Sen. John Boozman (AR), Rep. Austin Scott (GA), and Rep. Luis Gutierrez (IL) • Country: Iraq (22 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and Kurdish • Fierce harassment of non-Muslims • 96% Muslim; 3% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: The promises of God should be an encouragement to you to seek God in prayer (Amos 5:4,6).
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Corinthians 13:1
