the scriptures provide special wisdom (2 Timothy 3:14-17)
Introduction:
1. These verses reveal some important information about the Scriptures. a. 2 points are made in vs.16-17 -- the Scriptures are inspired and profitable. b. Another point is made in vs.14-15a -- the Scriptures can be learned and known, even by a child. c. We are especially interested in the point made in vs.15b -- "the Scriptures provide special wisdom" [they are able to make us wise unto salvation]. 2. As we study the Scriptures we are pursuing the special wisdom they provide concerning salvation. Discussion: I. THE SCRIPTURES PROVIDE SPECIAL WISDOM BY REVEALING BASIC PRINCIPLES THAT RELATE TO SALVATION
A. The Bible explains why salvation from sin is so important. 1. The Bible identifies sin as the transgression of God's law (1 John 3:4). 2. The Bible identifies who is guilty of sin (Romans 3:23). 3. The Bible reveals the effects of sin (Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 6:23a). B. The "Gospel" [Good News] is that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and was resurrected so we may be saved (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). C. According to Hebrews 5:8-9, Christ saves those who obey Him. II. THE SCRIPTURES PROVIDE SPECIAL WISDOM BY REVEALING THE LORD'S REQUIREMENTS FOR SALVATION
A. To be saved, a person must believe that Jesus is God's Son (John 3:16-17; 8:24). B. To be saved, a person must repent (Luke 13:3, 5; Acts 3:19). C. To be saved, a person must confess that Jesus is God's Son (Romans 10:9-10). D. To be saved, a person must be baptized (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:37-38; 22:16; and 1 Corinthians 12:13; Acts 2:47). III. THE SCRIPTURES PROVIDE SPECIAL WISDOM BY REVEALING EXAMPLES OF CONVERSION
A. About 3,000 Jews in Jerusalem were converted (Acts 2:41). B. Men and women in Samaria were converted (Acts 8:12). C. The eunuch of Ethiopia was converted (Acts 8:35-39). D. Saul was converted (Acts 22:16; 9:18). E. Cornelius, a Gentile, and his household were converted (Acts 10:48). F. Lydia, a businesswoman, and her household were converted (Acts 16:14-15). G. The jailer in Philippi and his household were converted (Acts 16:30-34). H. Many people in Corinth were converted (Acts 18:8). I. People in Ephesus were converted (Acts 19:5). Conclusion:
1. The Scriptures provide special wisdom in that they are able to make us wise unto salvation. 2. The Lord invites us to come to Him to receive forgiveness and the hope of eternal life (Matthew 11:28-30).
