How does Luke 16:29 connect with the authority of Scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16? Setting the Context Luke 16 records Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus. After death, the rich man pleads that his brothers be warned. Abraham answers: “ ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let your brothers listen to them.’ ” (Luke 16:29) Centuries later, Paul writes: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Luke 16:29—Scripture as Present Testimony • “Moses and the Prophets” was first-century shorthand for the entire Old Testament. • Abraham’s statement locates responsibility: the brothers already possess God’s clear revelation; they need to “listen,” not wait for extraordinary signs (vv. 30-31). • Jesus therefore upholds the sufficiency of written Scripture for repentance and faith. Sufficiency and Authority in 2 Timothy 3:16 • “God-breathed” (Greek theopneustos) grounds Scripture’s authority in divine origin, not human ingenuity (cf. 2 Peter 1:21). • Because every word comes from God, Scripture is fully dependable—“profitable” for every aspect of discipleship: – Instruction: teaching truth. – Conviction: exposing error. – Correction: restoring what is wrong. – Training: shaping righteous living. Connecting the Dots: One Unified Voice • Luke 16:29 declares that the written Word already carries divine weight; 2 Timothy 3:16 explains why—it is God-breathed. • Together they affirm: – The Old Testament was—and remains—authoritative (Psalm 19:7; Romans 15:4). – No extra revelation is needed for salvation; Scripture is complete and adequate (Luke 24:27; John 5:39). – Refusal to heed Scripture reveals a heart issue, not an information gap (Luke 16:31; Hebrews 4:12-13). Practical Takeaways • Lean on Scripture as the final, sufficient authority for faith and life. • Expect the Word to be effective—God Himself speaks through it. • Share the gospel confidently, knowing the Spirit works through Scripture to bring conviction and repentance (Romans 10:17). |
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