“God said it, I believe it, that settles it” rightly says Scripture is key for spiritual growth. Paul told Timothy Scripture was useful “for teaching, for showing mistakes, for correcting, and for training character, so that the person who belongs to God can be equipped to do everything that is good.” (He did not say it would answer all historical, scientific or financial questions.) The Bible recorded God’s dealings with humans, and guides our interaction with God.

• The United Methodist Articles of Religion, which date back to church founder John Wesley, say, “The Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation.” That echoes Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 3:15. What parts of the Bible’s story played the biggest role in leading you to Christ and salvation by his grace? Have you ever read stories or commands in your Bible that seem NOT to contribute to that purpose?
• In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul urged Timothy to be “one who interprets the message of truth correctly.” He knew the Scriptures required interpretation. Then in chapter 3, he listed the main roles that Scripture can play. How (if at all) is the Bible playing each of these roles in your life? How can your Bible study focus more deeply on God’s purposes for inspiring and preserving these writings?