“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” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
The God-breathed Scriptures, having come to us as “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” are “profitable” to the Christian “for doctrine,” that is, for teaching. If we would walk in the world by the teachings of God’s Word, then we must know what these teachings are. This necessitates that we “search the Scriptures” like the Bereans who “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily.” Then we shall say with the psalmist, “How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth.” But God’s Word will also bring “reproof” or conviction to our hearts, causing us pain as “we ... judge ourselves, [that] we should not be judged.” And the Word rightfully received brings “correction.” With the psalmist we say, “I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto Thy testimonies.” It also brings “instruction in righteousness,” for “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path,” and “the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.”
More precious than gold is God’s Word;
It gives me strength for my way,
Teaching, convicting, correcting,
And guiding my steps each day.
2 Peter 1:21; John 5:39; Acts 17:11; Psa. 119:103; 1 Cor. 11:31; Psa. 119:59,105; 19:7.