2 Timothy 3:16

Authorized King James Version

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Word-by-Word Analysis

πᾶσα

G3956

All

all, any, every, the whole

γραφὴ

G1124

scripture

a document, i.e., holy writ (or its contents or a statement in it)

θεόπνευστος

G2315

is given by inspiration of God

divinely breathed in

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὠφέλιμος

G5624

is profitable

helpful or serviceable, i.e., advantageous

πρὸς

G4314

for

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

διδασκαλίαν

G1319

doctrine

instruction (the function or the information)

πρὸς

G4314

for

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ἔλεγχον,

G1650

reproof

proof, conviction

#10

πρὸς

G4314

for

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#11

ἐπανόρθωσιν

G1882

correction

a straightening up again, i.e., (figuratively) rectification (reformation)

#12

πρὸς

G4314

for

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#13

παιδείαν

G3809

instruction

tutorage, i.e., education or training; by implication, disciplinary correction

#14

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#15

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#16

δικαιοσύνῃ

G1343

righteousness

equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ 2 Peter 1:21 2 Peter 1:21
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.
— Holy men spake as moved by Holy Ghost
² Hebrews 1:1 Hebrews 1:1
God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,
— God spake by the prophets

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing righteousness contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Timothy Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 2 Timothy chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?