Memory Verse Day 21: Every Good Work

Last time we were talking about the verse right before this one.  2Timothy 3:16 talks about the nature of the Scriptures.  They come from God – breathed out, or inspired.  And they are useful or profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.

So what is the result of this?  That’s what verse 17 tells us.

First, Paul says that the man of God will be complete, or perfect.  Other translations use words like adequate or capable.

What does this mean?  Well, Paul expands his thought.  The man of God will be equipped for every good work.  That means furnished completely, or completely prepared, for everything that God wants him to do.

Paul liked this phrase, "good work".  He believed that God would help His people to do every good work through His grace (2Corinthians 9:8).  Paul prayed that the believers would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, so that they could bear fruit in every good work (Colossians 1:9-12).

Earlier in his letter to Timothy, Paul encouraged him to accurately handle the Word of Truth, and avoid worldly and empty chatter.  By doing this, Timothy would be a vessel of honour, prepared for every good work (1Timothy 2:15-21).

Paul told Titus that he would need God’s Word in order to contradict "rebellious men", who were worthless for every good work (Titus 1:7-16).

So this is for everyone who is following God.  The Scriptures teach us and train us, and also allow us to reprove and correct.

And the Scriptures are all we need to be ready – to be complete – to be prepared for every good work.

There is nothing else you need in your service to the Lord.  If you want to do every good work, if you want to be complete, there’s nowhere else you need to look.