Circular Reasoning

2 Ti 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:     KJV

This verse is normally used to prove the inspiration of the Bible. Of course, that is circular reasoning and will never persuade an intelligent person.

That is basically the same as saying, “Of course I am right. I said it, didn’t I?” Just won’t wash.

(Some people, who are not able to follow simple logic, but feel they must ‘read between the lines,’ will arrive at the conclusion that I do not believe in the inspiration of the Bible. Nothing could be further from the truth!! If that is true for you, then please read again the statement that you find objectionable.)

The Bible is the inspired word of God. It contains one of the aspects I wrote about yeterday–Every Word of God. And we need to have every word of God in order to live (Matt. 4:4).

Notice the value of the Word: it is profitable, or advantageous.

It is profitable for use in four areas: doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction.

When you spend your daily time in the Word, (you do spend daily time, don’t you?) you should be looking to have at least one of these experiences from your reading/study:

• You should come away with an “Aha!” or
• You should come away with an “Ouch!” or
• You should come away with an “Uh-oh” or
• You should come away with an “Ahh.”

Same thing said another way:

• doctrine–reveals the path
• reproof–for getting off the path
• correction–help in aligning on the path
• instruction–how to stay on the path

Now, many think this passage refers to preachers as they try to prepare their sermons. Let’s look just a little deeper into this.

Verse 16 is certainly joined by verse 17–

2 Ti 3:17
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.   KJV

We have made the mistake and joined the error that accepts “man of God” as preacher, thereby excluding others.

Why such a limitation? If you are following the Lord, is it not your desire to be a man or woman of God? Don’t you desire to be perfect? Don’t you desire to have what you need for every good work?

2 Timothy 3:16-17 is a great Bible passage for ALL believers.