How does Psalm 119:138 connect with 2 Timothy 3:16 about Scripture's authority?

◄ Psalm 119:138 & 2 Tim 3:16 link? ►

Reading the Verses

Psalm 119:138: “The testimonies You have laid down are righteous and altogether faithful.”

2 Timothy 3:16: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness,”

Key Terms That Link the Two Texts

• “Testimonies” (Psalm 119:138) = God’s written declarations

• “God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16) = Scripture’s divine origin

• “Righteous/Useful for…righteousness” = Scripture’s moral perfection and purpose

• “Altogether faithful” = total reliability; matches the trust implied in divine inspiration

Shared Truths about Scripture’s Origin

• God Himself is the source.

• Because He cannot lie (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2), every word is true.

• The same God who breathed out the Law, Prophets, and Writings (Psalm 119) breathed out the New-Testament Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16).

Shared Truths about Scripture’s Character

• Righteous: entirely aligned with God’s holy nature (Psalm 19:7-9).

• Faithful: unfailing, unfading, permanent (Isaiah 40:8).

• Authoritative: carries God’s own authority to instruct, convict, correct, and train.

Practical Implications for Study and Life

• Approach every passage with confidence—God’s Word is flawless and binding.

• Let its righteousness expose sin and shape conduct.

• Trust its promises; they are “altogether faithful,” not partial or tentative.

• Submit to its authority in every sphere—doctrine, ethics, worship, relationships.

Other Passages Echoing the Same Authority

• Psalm 19:7-9 — “The law of the LORD is perfect… the commandments of the LORD are pure.”

• Matthew 5:18 — Jesus affirms not “the smallest letter” will pass away.

• John 17:17 — “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.”

• 1 Peter 1:23-25 — The living and enduring word of God “stands forever.”