Weekly Pulpit 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction… was versed in the polite literature of his day and in the works of classic writers. He tells us that in a dream he once thought himself arraigned before the judgment seat of Christ, where he was asked the nature of his profession. He answered, "I am a Christian." "Thou art not!" said the Judge; "thou art a Ciceronian, for the works of that author possess thy heart." The Judge then gave order that he should be scourged by angels. Although it was only a dream, his chastisement never was forgotten; it changed the direction of his thoughts. "From that time," he says, "I gave myself to the reading of Divine things with greater diligence and attention than I had ever read the other authors." To give undue attention to secular reading, to the neglect of sacred literature, is a temptation peculiar to the cultivated believer, and it is a real temptation; for one may be as sordid in the acquisition of knowledge as in the pursuit of wealth. The man of God's equipment: — I. THE MAN OF GOD IS INSTRUCTED — 1. Concerning God. 2. Concerning man. 3. Concerning duty. 4. Concerning responsibility. II. THE MAN OF GOD IS DISCIPLINED. 1. Joy in prosperity. 2. Hope in adversity. 3. A cheerful submission to the will of God at all times. III. THE MAN OF GOD IS INSPIRED. 1. The mind is illumined. 2. The affections are sanctified. 3. The whole life is made the reflex of revelation. (Weekly Pulpit.) Parallel Verses KJV: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: |
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