2 Timothy 3:15

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:15 (KJV)

Context

Paul wrote this letter from prison, giving final instructions to Timothy, his young coworker serving in Ephesus. In the preceding verses, Paul reminds Timothy of the godly heritage he received from his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5). Now he commends Timothy for knowing the holy scriptures from childhood. The Greek phrase translated “from a child” means “from infancy,” pointing to the very early start of Timothy’s instruction in God’s Word.

Meaning

The “holy scriptures” here refer to the Old Testament writings, the Hebrew Scriptures that Timothy would have learned as a Jewish child. Paul says these scriptures are “able to make thee wise unto salvation.” They do not save by themselves; rather, they give the wisdom that leads a person to receive salvation. That wisdom becomes effective “through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” The Old Testament pointed forward to the coming Messiah, and the New Testament reveals the fulfillment of those promises in Jesus. Thus, the scriptures are not merely historical documents but the living revelation of God’s plan to rescue sinners through His Son.

Biblical connections

Paul’s words echo the Jewish practice of teaching children the scriptures from a young age, a duty that Timothy’s mother and grandmother faithfully fulfilled. The scriptures lead to the “knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 2:25; 1 Timothy 2:4), and they have the power to bring people to faith. This verse also grounds Timothy’s calling: because he has known the scriptures from childhood, he can be confident in the doctrines he has received, for they agree with what God has revealed.

Application

This verse reminds us of the importance of knowing and studying the scriptures. The Bible is God’s inspired Word, and it contains the message of salvation and the wisdom we need to live according to His will. Like Timothy, we can begin learning the scriptures at a young age, and it is beneficial for people of all ages to study and meditate on God’s Word.

• Importance of Teaching: This verse also highlights the vital role of parents, mentors, and church leaders in teaching the scriptures to the next generation. Just as Timothy’s mother and grandmother passed down their faith to him, we have a responsibility to teach and disciple others in the knowledge of the scriptures and the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Let us commit ourselves to studying and meditating on God’s Word, and let us pass on the knowledge of the scriptures to the next generation, trusting that God uses His Word to make people wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.