Hey folks,
Today we're diving into something absolutely critical - the sufficiency of God's Word. In a world that's constantly looking for the next trendy approach or novel strategy, we need to hear Paul's dying words to Timothy about what really matters. Let's dial in.
"Without the milk, the baby doesn't grow, and without the Word, the Christian doesn't grow." - Jonny Ardavanis
2 Timothy 3:16-17
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."
Picture a newborn baby crying out for milk. That hunger, that desperate need - that's exactly how we should long for God's Word. It's not just helpful; it's essential for our spiritual survival. Just as a baby won't grow without milk, we won't grow without Scripture.
What makes God's Word so powerful? Paul tells us it's "God-breathed" - meaning these aren't just good ideas from smart people. This is God Himself speaking to us. And when God speaks, He accomplishes five vital things in our lives:
First, it makes us wise for salvation. Before anything else, Scripture shows us our need for a Savior and points us to Christ. Second, it teaches us who God is and what He's like. Third, it reproves us - functioning like a spiritual scalpel to expose sin in our lives. Fourth, it corrects us - not just pointing out what's wrong but showing us how to make it right. Finally, it trains us in righteousness - equipping us for every good work God has prepared for us.
Here's what's wild: in a world going from bad to worse, Paul doesn't tell Timothy to change strategies or get innovative. Instead, he points him to the timeless, sufficient Word of God. Why? Because God's Word isn't just another self-help book or collection of good advice. It's living and active, able to pierce to the deepest parts of who we are.
How would you describe your current hunger for God's Word? Are you craving it like a newborn craves milk, or has your appetite grown dull?
In which of the five functions of Scripture (salvation, teaching, reproof, correction, training) do you most need to grow right now?
God's Word isn't just sufficient - it's essential for every aspect of my spiritual life.
Stay dialed in,
Jonny Ardavanis
