2 Timothy 2:15, 3:14-17
The goal of studying the Scripture is not to fill our heads with a bunch of Bible knowledge (information). The goal of studying the Scriptures is so we can live out what we learn (transformation). But to be transformed, we must first be informed. And this is where studying the Bible can help. Additionally, there is a risk that comes along with an over-emphasis on knowing the Bible – pride. Being prideful can bring conflict and resentment in our relationships. This is especially true when we attack people online from prideful positions of certainty and self-righteousness. Fortunately, the Bible helps us with this reality. And today, we will see how Paul instructed a young pastor to regulate his own life through the discipline of studying the Bible as well as handling critics with whom he disagreed.
Key Word-
μάχη (quarreling) – to fight, to take arms into battle, to pursue strife against an opponent.
1. Avoid all talk that is not helpful.
Unnecessary Arguments Are:
- Ungodly
- Unsettles unity
- Unhealthy for listeners
Consider Replacing Quarrelling With:
- Grace (mentioned 10xs)
- Gospel (mentioned 5xs)
- Mercy (mentioned 3xs)
2. Embrace [handle] the word of truth correctly as an approved leader (2:14-15)
- Historically accurate
- Culturally Nuanced
- Grammatically sensitive
- Gospel-focused
“Approved” (δόκιμος) means acceptable, pleasing, or meeting a certain standard, especially as it concerns currency.
In the ancient world there was no banking system as we know it today, and no paper money. All money was made from metal, heated until liquid, poured into molds, and allowed to cool. When the coins were cooled, it was necessary to smooth off the uneven edges. The coins were comparatively soft, and of course, many people shaved them closely. In one century, more than eighty laws were passed in Athens to stop the practice of shaving down the coins then in circulation. But some money changers were men of integrity who would accept no counterfeit money. They were men of honor who put only genuine full-weighted money into circulation. Such men were called “dokimos” or “approved”. (Donald Barnhouse, Commentary on 2 Timothy)
3. Respond by personally continuing in the Scriptures (3:10-17)
- Do you read the Scriptures in such a way that its message is:
Application:
Got a Sensitive Issue (2:23-26):
- Stop Attacking
- Be kind
- And Teach (without resentment).
Table Talk Card
