let us demonstrate our knowledge of scripture (2 Timothy 3:14-15)
Introduction:
1. This morning we showed from a number of passages how "Jesus demonstrated His knowledge of Scripture." 2. Based on the Lord's example and these words Paul wrote to Timothy, "let us demonstrate our knowledge of Scripture." 3. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. GOD WANTS HIS PEOPLE TO GROW IN KNOWLEDGE OF SCRIPTURE
A. This principle is taught in both the Old and New Testaments. B. From the Old Testament, see Deuteronomy 6:4-7. C. From the New Testament, see Colossians 3:16. D. One reason why we should want to increase our knowledge of the Scriptures is because they are so valuable (Psalm 119:72). E. This brings us to our second point. II. FAILURE TO GROW IN KNOWLEDGE OF SCRIPTURE LEADS TO DESTRUCTION
A. This principle is also taught in both the Old and New Testaments. B. From the Old Testament, see Isaiah 5:13; Hosea 4:6. C. From the New Testament, see John 12:48. D. This information should impress us with the importance of growing in knowledge of the Scriptures. 1. God wants us to learn His Word. 2. Failure to so leads to destruction. E. Let us turn our attention to the fact that . . . III. SPECIAL BLESSINGS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SCRIPTURE
A. These blessings are revealed in both the Old and New Testaments. B. Blessings in the Old Testament include: 1. "cleansing" (Psalm 119:9) 2. "power to overcome temptation" (Psalm 119:11) 3. "direction" (Psalm 119:105). C. Blessings in the New Testament include: 1. "increasing your knowledge of Christ" (John 5:39; 2 Peter 3:18) 2. "knowing the truth that will make you free" (John 8:31-32) 3. "building you up" (Acts 20:32) 4. "increasing your faith" (Romans 10:17) 5. "equipping you completely to do God's will" (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 6. "saving your soul" (James 1:21) 7. "spiritual growth" (1 Peter 2:2). Conclusion:
1. The passages we have studied encourage us to adopt this disposition: "Let us demonstrate our knowledge of Scripture." 2. As we study God's Word, let us do so with the appeal in our hearts that is made in Psalm 119:18.
