Rev's Review on 2 Timothy 3: 10-17
Question: Can The Bible Really Speak To Me?
Rev's Review: I believe that the Bible is the Word of God! I believe that the Word of God is what God HAS said and WILL say! So, when we seek to find God speaking to us, I believe we can find God speaking in the Bible!
In 2 Timothy, the Apostle Paul is speaking to his mentee, Timothy, about what "ungodliness" looks like. In essence, Paul says that people may know of the Word of God but not actually ACKNOWLEDGE the POWER of God and God's word. When we ask "can the Bible really speak to me" we must decide whether or not we BELIEVE in the power of God and God's Word.
How do we acknowledge the power of God and God’s Word?
1) Acknowledge the power demonstrated in other’s testimony (v. 10-11)
Paul begins by telling Timothy that he KNOWS all about his teaching, his way of life, his purpose, etc. It is important for us to take advantage of the stories/testimony that God allows us to witness- not to gossip or covet but to LEARN about God's POWER!! The bible says in Revelation 12:11- That we over come by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. Someone needs to hear what God has done for you!
2) Accept the persecution that comes because of God’s Power (v. 12-13)
Paul explains that those who are godly will have to endure some type of persecution because of the power of God. For Paul, it was literal persecution/beatings/jailing because of his belief in the power of God. We may not receive that type of persecution, but we will experience some type of persecution (judgment, jealousy, etc) because of our faith and belief in God's power.
I believe there is a three-step process that we can do in order to lay the foundation for the Bible speaking to us as the word of God. After we have acknowledged the power of God,
1) Walk in what you’ve learned (v. 14-15)
We must be fully convinced of God's word and confirm our belief based on stable and consistent teaching and preaching which leads to wisdom.
2) Witness the Power of God (v. 16)
We must believe that all scripture is God-breathed (inspired by God) so it is useful for everyone.
3) Work the Power (v. 17)
The power of God will equip us to do every good work necessary by God. So, it's time to get to work!!!
I believe these "3Ws" (Walk...Witness...Work) will change our lives as we attempt to hear God speaking through the pages of the Bible! We will realize that every situation that we face, God has a WORD for it...for us!
Blessings,
Pastor C
