2 timothy 3:17 - that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "2 timothy 3:17" mean?
This verse, 2 Timothy 3:17, is the culmination of Paul's argument about the importance of Scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Let's break down what each part of the verse means:
"That the man of God may be complete..."
"Man of God": This generally refers to someone dedicated to serving God, particularly leaders, ministers, and those actively involved in spiritual service. It's not limited to men; it can refer to any devout follower of God.
"Complete": This means whole, mature, lacking nothing essential for their role. The idea is that the person is fully developed and prepared spiritually. The Bible doesn't necessarily mean they're perfect or without flaws, but that they have the necessary character and abilities to fulfill God's purpose.
"...thoroughly equipped for every good work."
"Thoroughly equipped": This emphasizes the idea of being fully furnished or prepared. It's not just having basic tools, but having everything needed and being properly trained in its use. The Greek word translated as "thoroughly equipped" (exartizo) implies a complete fitting out, like equipping a ship for a voyage.
"Every good work": This refers to all the acts of service, ministry, and positive contributions that God calls a person to do. It encompasses a wide range of actions, from acts of kindness and compassion to preaching and teaching.
In summary, the verse means:
By using Scripture (as highlighted in the previous verse, 2 Timothy 3:16), the person dedicated to serving God (the "man of God") can become fully mature and prepared. Scripture provides the necessary resources, knowledge, and guidance so that he or she is fully equipped to do all the good works that God intends for them.
Key implications:
Importance of Scripture: The verse emphasizes the crucial role of Scripture in spiritual growth and effectiveness. It's not enough to just read the Bible; it must be understood, applied, and used to shape one's life.
Holistic Development: The verse speaks to a holistic development, encompassing character, knowledge, and skills. It's not just about intellectual understanding but also about moral formation and practical abilities.
Purpose-Driven Life: The verse connects spiritual growth with the purpose of doing good works. It's about equipping oneself not just for personal benefit but also for serving others and advancing God's kingdom.
In essence, 2 Timothy 3:17 is a powerful statement on the transforming power of Scripture and its role in preparing believers for effective service. It suggests that consistent engagement with the Bible is the key to achieving spiritual maturity and fulfilling God's purpose in one's life.
2 timothy 3:17 - that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
What does "2 timothy 3:17" mean?
This verse, 2 Timothy 3:17, is the culmination of Paul's argument about the importance of Scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Let's break down what each part of the verse means:
"That the man of God may be complete..."
"Man of God": This generally refers to someone dedicated to serving God, particularly leaders, ministers, and those actively involved in spiritual service. It's not limited to men; it can refer to any devout follower of God.
"Complete": This means whole, mature, lacking nothing essential for their role. The idea is that the person is fully developed and prepared spiritually. The Bible doesn't necessarily mean they're perfect or without flaws, but that they have the necessary character and abilities to fulfill God's purpose.
"...thoroughly equipped for every good work."
"Thoroughly equipped": This emphasizes the idea of being fully furnished or prepared. It's not just having basic tools, but having everything needed and being properly trained in its use. The Greek word translated as "thoroughly equipped" (exartizo) implies a complete fitting out, like equipping a ship for a voyage.
"Every good work": This refers to all the acts of service, ministry, and positive contributions that God calls a person to do. It encompasses a wide range of actions, from acts of kindness and compassion to preaching and teaching.
In summary, the verse means:
By using Scripture (as highlighted in the previous verse, 2 Timothy 3:16), the person dedicated to serving God (the "man of God") can become fully mature and prepared. Scripture provides the necessary resources, knowledge, and guidance so that he or she is fully equipped to do all the good works that God intends for them.
Key implications:
Importance of Scripture: The verse emphasizes the crucial role of Scripture in spiritual growth and effectiveness. It's not enough to just read the Bible; it must be understood, applied, and used to shape one's life.
Holistic Development: The verse speaks to a holistic development, encompassing character, knowledge, and skills. It's not just about intellectual understanding but also about moral formation and practical abilities.
Purpose-Driven Life: The verse connects spiritual growth with the purpose of doing good works. It's about equipping oneself not just for personal benefit but also for serving others and advancing God's kingdom.
In essence, 2 Timothy 3:17 is a powerful statement on the transforming power of Scripture and its role in preparing believers for effective service. It suggests that consistent engagement with the Bible is the key to achieving spiritual maturity and fulfilling God's purpose in one's life.