| First Reading: Psalm: Gospel: | 2 Timothy 3:10-17 Psalm 119:157, 160-161, 165-166, 168 Mark 12:35-37 |
2 Timothy 3:17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:15 is a verse that may be familiar to many. It is one of the foundational verses used to proof text the concept of Sola Scriptura. But I find that you have to read the entire passage to see what Paul is saying and verse 15 isn't really the punch line here. Usually the punch line comes at the end and here it does as well. Not only the scriptures, but Paul and his example and the family support of Timothy and of all those who have taught him are part of the support structure that equips him for every good work. There it is. The punch line is we are to do good works and all the other stuff is to help equip us for these works. To see Sola Scriptura in this passage is to not read the passage at all.
We are called to repent, to change, to lead a new life where we don't sin. This is our goal. If the scriptures were sufficient then our goal would simply be to read them. But that is not what we are called to. And Paul make a special point that others including himself are examples for us. Yes, they do sin, but that also helps to give us an honest picture so we can better discern what is right and what is wrong. It is all there to help and equip us to do good works.
Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to not fall into the religion trap of thinking that the scriptures and the analysis of them is going to be sufficient. Help me to see what needs to be done and then have the courage to act as you call me to.
Amen
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