2 Tim.3:16- "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness"
---NKJV
Biblical inspiration is not the same as human motivation. When we speak of Biblical inspiration, we are referring to the activity of the Holy Spirit upon the Biblical authors; this activity of inspiration guaranteed that what the authors wrote was the Word of God.
Theologians have discussed various theories and mechanics of Biblical inspiration; however, the Bible has little to say about the precise mode(s) of inspiration. To put it another way: Prophecies, visions, narratives, parables and discourses are recorded truthfully in the Word of God, but the process of inspiration is not dealt with at length in the Scriptures.
The priority in Scripture is upon the Results of Biblical inspiration. One result of inspiration is that we have the Word of God written. The Bible that we read has been inspired of God and given to us by God.
Another result of Biblical inspiration is the practical value of Scripture. The truths of Scripture are helpful and constructive for our spiritual life. Paul writes that ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is therefore spiritually profitable.
All of Scripture is to be proclaimed as well as studied (see 2 Tim.4:1-2). 'Doctrine' is a dirty word among some people, but it is in fact a Biblical term. How can you think Biblically if you have no clue as to what the Bible teaches? How can you communicate Biblical truths if you've never learned them?
Scripture is profitable for 'reproof and correction'. Scripture has the tendency to do more than step on our toes. Scripture guides us, sometimes brutally, to the feet of Jesus Christ, the Living Word. We need to be corrected and guided because we are sinners in daily need of a Savior.
Additionally, Scripture can train us Christians in righteousness. God has not left us in ignorance, wondering what He is like or puzzling over what He may or may not require. For people to be saved, they must believe in the One Whom God has sent (John 6:29). The supreme result of Biblical inspiration is to inform and enlighten people about the grace of God and the Gospel of Christ.
May we prayerfully learn God's Word about Him. May we grow in our daily relationship with the Living Word.
---NKJV
Biblical inspiration is not the same as human motivation. When we speak of Biblical inspiration, we are referring to the activity of the Holy Spirit upon the Biblical authors; this activity of inspiration guaranteed that what the authors wrote was the Word of God.
Theologians have discussed various theories and mechanics of Biblical inspiration; however, the Bible has little to say about the precise mode(s) of inspiration. To put it another way: Prophecies, visions, narratives, parables and discourses are recorded truthfully in the Word of God, but the process of inspiration is not dealt with at length in the Scriptures.
The priority in Scripture is upon the Results of Biblical inspiration. One result of inspiration is that we have the Word of God written. The Bible that we read has been inspired of God and given to us by God.
Another result of Biblical inspiration is the practical value of Scripture. The truths of Scripture are helpful and constructive for our spiritual life. Paul writes that ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is therefore spiritually profitable.
All of Scripture is to be proclaimed as well as studied (see 2 Tim.4:1-2). 'Doctrine' is a dirty word among some people, but it is in fact a Biblical term. How can you think Biblically if you have no clue as to what the Bible teaches? How can you communicate Biblical truths if you've never learned them?
Scripture is profitable for 'reproof and correction'. Scripture has the tendency to do more than step on our toes. Scripture guides us, sometimes brutally, to the feet of Jesus Christ, the Living Word. We need to be corrected and guided because we are sinners in daily need of a Savior.
Additionally, Scripture can train us Christians in righteousness. God has not left us in ignorance, wondering what He is like or puzzling over what He may or may not require. For people to be saved, they must believe in the One Whom God has sent (John 6:29). The supreme result of Biblical inspiration is to inform and enlighten people about the grace of God and the Gospel of Christ.
May we prayerfully learn God's Word about Him. May we grow in our daily relationship with the Living Word.