You might think about how the Bible can be used to correct a fellow believer. You might think about how the Bible instructs parents in the discipline of children. You might think about self-discipline. My starting point is the verse:
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness….2 Timothy 3:16 (NASB95)
The word discipline does not appear in this verse, but that is exactly what the Apostle Paul described. His description mirrors the meaning of an Old Testament Hebrew word, musar. It was used for the full breadth of discipline, including instruction, training, correction, rebuke (strong verbal correction), as well as physical discipline. So, Paul wrote that the inspired word of God is beneficial for musar.
Now, was Paul addressing parents, church leaders or Christians in general? The next verse tells us the purpose of the discipline that God’s word provides, even though the application may be broader.
Now, was Paul addressing parents, church leaders or Christians in general? The next verse tells us the purpose of the discipline that God’s word provides, even though the application may be broader.
...so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.2 Timothy 3:17 (NASB95)
The overall idea is that of a finished work. God’s word is able to make you a finished work. I might be behind the times, but I think one of the buzz words of our day is spiritual formation.
The point is this: God’s word is able to transform you into a finished product that He will be satisfied with. His expectation is that you will be capable of doing good works. And how does He bring about a finished work in you?
God’s word provides instruction (doctrine) which tells us about God, His identity, His values, and His character. Biblical doctrine also tells us about ourselves in relation to God. Where else will you find instruction about salvation, the afterlife, moral conduct, and the soul?
And don’t overlook the mind of man. God’s word has been dealing with emotional and mental issues for centuries while modern research is only now catching up.
Even with the best instruction, we sometimes misunderstand. We try to implement God’s word in our lives, but sometimes fail. We need correction. We need someone to tell us where we went wrong and to point us in the right direction. Correction, reproof, and training all present varying levels of corrective discipline. God’s word is the best source.
We might find correction on our own as we read the Scriptures. At other times a friend or family member may love us enough to help us back on the right path by applying God’s word.
The Scriptures discipline us…
The point is this: God’s word is able to transform you into a finished product that He will be satisfied with. His expectation is that you will be capable of doing good works. And how does He bring about a finished work in you?
God’s word provides instruction (doctrine) which tells us about God, His identity, His values, and His character. Biblical doctrine also tells us about ourselves in relation to God. Where else will you find instruction about salvation, the afterlife, moral conduct, and the soul?
And don’t overlook the mind of man. God’s word has been dealing with emotional and mental issues for centuries while modern research is only now catching up.
Even with the best instruction, we sometimes misunderstand. We try to implement God’s word in our lives, but sometimes fail. We need correction. We need someone to tell us where we went wrong and to point us in the right direction. Correction, reproof, and training all present varying levels of corrective discipline. God’s word is the best source.
We might find correction on our own as we read the Scriptures. At other times a friend or family member may love us enough to help us back on the right path by applying God’s word.
The Scriptures discipline us…
- To live righteous lives;
- To love sacrificially;
- To control our tongue (and typing fingers);
- To mature from childhood into adulthood with dignity.
The Scriptures instruct and discipline us in our different roles and circumstances:
- How to be husbands and wives;
- How to be parents & children;
- How to be bosses & employees;
- How to be Christian leaders & servants.
Don’t be caught off guard regarding discipline. God’s word is the key. God’s word is sufficient.
Mark Stinnett
September 5, 2021
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments are welcome from all readers. Please be respectful toward others who post comments. Choose your words wisely.