Font Size
Paul now contrasts himself with these false teachers of 3:1-9. Know all about (v.10) means “have closely followed or accompanied,” which was exactly what Timothy had done (see Ac 16:1-5). Antioch, Iconium and Lystra probably refers to Paul’s first missionary journey (Ac 13:13-14:25). Paul’s declaration in 3:12 would hardly be encouraging if not for his own testimony of the Lord’s deliverance (v.11). This is in sharp contrast with 3:13, where the evil men and impostors continue to worsen. Note the irony of the deceiver being the deceived.
In contrast, Timothy is to continue in the truth and faith. Paul reminds Timothy of his heritage. He identifies Timothy’s training in Scriptures, referring to the OT, which provides wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. V.16 tells us why the Scriptures can do this: They are God-breathed, which supports God’s direct involvement in the giving of the Scriptures but is inadequate in providing a definitive theory of inspiration by itself. This in no way affects the authority of the Scriptures as Paul quickly goes on to show their usefulness and the ultimate goal (vv.16-17). The result of properly using the Scriptures is a person of God fully qualified and equipped (niv thoroughly equipped combines the two concepts). This result helps to explain wise for salvation (v.15). Salvation here, as elsewhere in Paul (e.g., Php 3:12), encompasses one’s total relationship with Christ.