If one wants to be an approved servant of Lord, he or she will have a high regard for Scripture.
The Apostle Paul, writing in 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that “ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God…” The Christian who desires to be “An Approved Servant of God” must hold this view of God’s Word.
The Christian who desires to be an “approved servant” of his Master, the Lord Jesus Christ, will be one who puts the Master’s will and teachings into practice in his own life. He or she will want to be as close to Jesus as they can, ever learning more about Him. There are many ways we learn about God. We have the Word of God to tell us who God is and what His will and plan for mankind is. We find in the Word of God how to become a Christian and serve the Lord Jesus. We find out what we must do to become “An Approved Servant of the Lord Jesus.” One hymn writer wrote, “More About Jesus Would I Know…”
Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:17 that the Scriptures were given “that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Christians must have a “high” view of God’s Word. We must not only accept the fact that the Word is true, but we must be willing to read it, study it, meditate upon it, and tell others about it.
If we accept God’s Word as True and authoritative, we will have the right attitude toward the Word of God. We will want to learn more of it ourselves, as well as help others in their pilgrimage.
Timothy is commended by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:14-15 because of his love for, and dedication to the Old Testament Scriptures. Paul tells him and all Christians that we must have the right attitude when it comes to God’s Word.
Paul gives us 4 points about the profitability of Scripture. He does this by using the word “for” before each one. His aim is that Christians may be fully equipped for service. The Christian with the Bible in his or her hands is ready for service.
Paul assumes that we accept the fact that the Word of God is inspired. So, what is Scripture profitable for. It is profitable for:
- Doctrine
- Reproof
- Correction
- Instruction in righteousness
If we will utilize the principles here in 2 Timothy 3:15-16 we will have the proper attitude toward God’s Word and be equipped to be “An Approved Servant of the Lord” We need to remember that we must desire and want to grow in the Lord and in His Word. He will not force us to, but if we avail ourselves of all the resources He has for us, we can and will “grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus…” (2 Peter 3:18)
As we finish our study on the “Whole Armor of God,” may the love for God’s Word permeate our lives as. we seek to serve Him and as we live our lives in anticipation of the return of the Lord Jesus! (Titus 2:11-14)
Larryi Miles is Co-Editor of Word & Work and attends Cherry St. Church of Christ in New Albany, IN.