All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.1
The word origin in Greek for breathed out are en—meaning “in” or “into” and phusao—“to blow”; and the verb empneo describes the act of breathing in or upon, often implying a sense of inspiration or influence.2 The Greek equivalent for all in English means “all” not some. We have the assurance that the bible is accurate—the Old Covenant (or Old Testament) tells of God’s call and history of God’s chosen people; the New Covenant (New Testament) tells of the history and the application of the call. Yes, all Scripture is inspired by God. Caution! Distinguish between God’s revelation and what is merely history; e.g., the book of Job records God’s words, including that of Satan, Job’s friends, and Job himself—the writer was inspired to record all for accuracy, not that God approves of what they said.
Nevertheless, when God’s people received a call from him, regardless of their capabilities, they had no recourse but to trust the call. But Moses said to the LORD, “Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent, either in the past or since you have spoken to your servant, but I am slow to speech and of tongue.” And the LORD responded, “Who has made man’s mouth? . . . Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.”3 Likewise Jeremiah, “Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” The LORD said, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD.”4
Paul likewise reminded Timothy, Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.5
Believers who have been saved by grace6 will each have a specific assignment but all believers are guided by a general call—the command, Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”7 Clipping or varying the command is not an option. It is not an appendage nor subject to whim, caprice, or convenience. You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you.8
Notes:
1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
2. Strong’s Greek: 1720; 1709
3. Exodus 4:10-16
4. Jeremiah 1:6-10
5. 1 Timothy 4:12-13
6. Ephesians 2:8-10
7. Matthew 28:18-20
8. Deuteronomy 4:2
