Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read 2 Timothy 3:16-17 as a definitive statement on the nature and purpose of Scripture within God's covenantal dealings with his people. The passage affirms that all Scripture is God-breathed, underscoring its divine inspiration and authority as part of God's sovereign decree. It is not merely a collection of teachings but the progressive revelation of God’s redemptive plan, culminating in Christ. The passage situates Scripture as the essential means by which God equips his people for every good work, grounding its role in the life of the church as the principium cognoscendi — the foundational source of theological knowledge and instruction.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the term 'theopneustos' (θεόπνευστος) is crucial, indicating that all Scripture is 'God-breathed.' This supports our tradition's emphasis on the divine origin and authority of the biblical texts. The word 'profitable' (ὠφέλιμος) indicates the usefulness of Scripture for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness, aligning with our doctrinal view that Scripture is sufficient for equipping the saints, a truth underscored by the Westminster Confession.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike the Roman Catholic tradition, which holds to both Scripture and church tradition as authoritative, we affirm sola Scriptura, the belief that Scripture alone is the supreme authority in matters of faith and practice. Furthermore, unlike the more experiential emphasis found in Pentecostalism, we emphasize the objective authority and sufficiency of Scripture as the basis for doctrine and life, not new revelations or subjective experiences.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we are called to encourage our congregations to immerse themselves in the Word, understanding its divine origin and purpose. We exhort believers to rely on Scripture as their ultimate authority, equipping them for every good work through its teachings. Our congregation expects to hear that their assurance and growth in grace are rooted in the sure foundation of God's inspired Word, emphasizing that our salvation and sanctification are secured through the sovereign grace revealed in Scripture. This passage invites us to trust in God's decree and be diligent in the study and application of his Word as a means of grace in our lives.

Cross-References: 2 Peter 1:20-21; Hebrews 4:12; Romans 15:4; Psalm 119:105; John 17:17

Doctrinal Connections: Inspiration and authority of Scripture; Sufficiency of Scripture; Covenant of grace; Means of grace; The doctrines of grace (TULIP)