In Scripture, the word “Scripture” means the sacred, inspired writings that make up the Bible. The New Testament describes these writings as breathed out by God and given to teach, correct, and train believers.
What “Scripture” refers to
The term “Scripture” points to the recognized holy writings—what Christians refer to as the Old and New Testaments. In other words, “Scripture” is not merely any religious text or spiritual insight; it refers to the Bible’s sacred writings as received and recognized by God’s people.
Authority and inspiration
The New Testament grounds Scripture’s authority in its divine inspiration. A key statement of this is found in 2 Timothy 3:16, which describes Scripture as “breathed out by God.” This connects Scripture’s authority not to human origin or preference, but to God’s own action in giving these writings.
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17)
What Scripture is for
2 Timothy 3:16–17 not only explains why Scripture has authority (“breathed out by God”), but also what it is meant to do. The passage lists several uses: teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. These describe Scripture’s role in forming belief and practice—shaping understanding and addressing what is wrong, then guiding people into what is right.
The goal is stated plainly: “so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” According to this text, Scripture is given to prepare God’s people for faithful living, not simply to provide information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the word “Scripture” mean in the Bible?
“Scripture” refers to the sacred, inspired writings that make up the Bible—the recognized holy writings of the Old and New Testaments.
Why does Scripture have authority?
2 Timothy 3:16 grounds Scripture’s authority in divine inspiration, describing it as “breathed out by God.”
What does 2 Timothy 3:16–17 say Scripture is useful for?
It says Scripture is “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,” showing its role in instruction and shaping conduct.
What is Scripture meant to accomplish in believers?
According to 2 Timothy 3:16–17, Scripture equips God’s people “so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
Does “Scripture” refer to both Old and New Testaments?
Yes. The term points to the recognized holy writings Christians understand as the Old and New Testaments.