2 Timothy 3:16 Text
King James Version (KJV)
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
World English Bible (WEB)
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness,
What 2 Timothy 3:16 Means
This verse makes a short claim about Scripture and then lists what it is for. The KJV says it is 'given by inspiration of God'. The WEB renders the Greek word theopneustos as 'God-breathed', which is the more literal picture: Scripture has its origin in God's breath. The verse then names four uses. Teaching gives content to believe; reproof exposes where we are wrong; correction helps us get back on track; and training in righteousness shapes ordinary habits. People sometimes read the verse as saying Scripture answers every question, or as a ready weapon for winning arguments. The list points elsewhere, toward the formation of a person's character. 'Scripture' here most directly means the Jewish scriptures Timothy knew from childhood, though many Christians see the principle extending to the New Testament.
Context of 2 Timothy 3:16
Traditionally attributed to Paul, 2 Timothy is a personal letter to his younger coworker Timothy, probably written near the end of Paul's life while he was imprisoned, around the mid-to-late 60s AD. Paul urges Timothy to stay faithful despite hardship and false teaching. In the verses before, he reminds Timothy that he has known the holy writings since childhood. Right after this verse, he says Scripture equips believers for every good work. To read the whole book, see random verse from 2 Timothy.
How to Apply 2 Timothy 3:16
Treat reading Scripture as a way to be shaped, not only informed. When you read, ask what it teaches, where it challenges you, and what small change it points to. Be as ready to be corrected as you are to quote it, and read with other people when you can.
Related Verses
- 2 Peter 1:20-21 – Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
- Psalm 119:105 – Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
- Romans 15:4 – For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
- Matthew 4:4 – But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Looking for more verses on this theme? Browse Bible Verses About Wisdom, each with a short note on its context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'God-breathed' mean in 2 Timothy 3:16?
It means Scripture comes from God, as though he breathed it out. The Greek word is theopneustos. Christians understand it to say that God stands behind the writings even though human authors wrote them, which is why the text is treated as authoritative.
What is Scripture useful for according to 2 Timothy 3:16?
Four things: teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. Together they describe how Scripture instructs what to believe, shows what is wrong, helps people get back on track, and builds good habits of living.
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