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NASB | 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God's will, both publicly and privately--behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; |
Bible Question: It is generally accepted that some passages in the Bible are symbolic while others are plain, literal statements of fact. How may we be sure that we are "rightly dividing" the one from the other? Do the usages of symbolism, allegory, metaphor and "poetic license" sacrifice, dilute or alter truth in any way? --Hank |
Bible Answer: Is it possible to be a Calvinist and at the same time a "real-time dispensationalist"? Hank, I think Scripture is used by God in a variety of ways to speak to us. And I think that Scripture sometimes changes for us depending on where we are in life and what God is doing with us. (This is my loose use of the word dispensational, which I liberally take to mean different at different times.) Clearly, I'm having a difficult time explaining this... Over many years of reading Scripture, particularly Old Testament, I find that at times there are messages which pop out that are in the detail of the story. And yet at another time, I will read the same Scripture and find that the broad message of an entire chapter or book stands out. Often, the difference is the place I am at personally, and the work of the Holy Spirit in my life at that time. Scripture is often a combination of actual fact, symbolism and allegory, woven together in ways only God could do. Often it is this very unusual characteristic that reveals to us Scripture's most divine nature. I don't at all think I answered your question. But I am intrigued by it. I find the Bible to be a fascinating book that continues to reveal in new ways. I attribute this to God's inspiration and to the Holy Spirit. If we trust Him and we seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, then we cannot be wrong in matters of faith, right??? I know I'm never wrong... ask my wife! (or my 13 year old son) lol Cheers Curt |