Entering the Land

Why is the O.T. valuable beyond being a good history book?

This is how the majority of the modern Church applies the O.T. in our lives. But in 2 Timothy 3:16–17, Paul declares that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Scripture, in this context, is referring specifically to the O.T., the Law and the Prophets. We extrapolate from this today to include the N.T., which is valuable enough; but it is important to understand Paul’s thinking here.

In view of that, and as an introduction to a study through the book of Deuteronomy, I want to take this time to secure our footing. I want us to be reminded of exactly what the utility is for us in studying the O.T.

Scripture is given by the Inspiration of God

The "inspiration of God" refers to the divine influence on the writers of Scripture, enabling them to communicate God's authoritative truth without error[1][2]. This concept is rooted in biblical passages such as 2 Timothy 3:16 and 2 Peter 1:20-21, which assert that all Scripture is "God-breathed" or divinely inspired[2][3]. The doctrine of inspiration claims that while human authors were employed, the Holy Spirit ensured the production of infallible writings that are, in the strictest sense, God's word[1]. This inspiration extends to all parts of the Bible, making it the final rule of faith and practice for Christians[1][3]. The concept of divine inspiration has been discussed by various thinkers throughout history, including Greek philosophers and early Christian fathers, with some describing it as a passive reception of divine knowledge[4]. However, it's important to note that inspiration, as understood in Christian theology, does not negate the individual styles and personalities of the biblical authors[3][5].

[1] Cairns, Alan. 2002. In Dictionary of Theological Terms, 237. Belfast; Greenville, SC: Ambassador Emerald International. [2] Packer, J. I., Wayne Grudem, and Ajith Fernando, eds. 2012. ESV Global Study Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. [3] Gromacki, Robert G. 1974. New Testament Survey. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. [4] M’Clintock, John, and James Strong. 1891. “Inspiration.” In Cyclopædia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature, 4:611. New York: Harper & Brothers, Publishers. [5] Easton, M. G. 1893. In Illustrated Bible Dictionary and Treasury of Biblical History, Biography, Geography, Doctrine, and Literature, 345. New York: Harper & Brothers.

What follows here is a compounding group of ideas: each idea builds on the last, and serves to bolster the overall concept. The O.T. isn’t simply valuable as a bragging point, showing the vast heritage built up around the “People of God” or followers of God.

Rather, when we approach the O.T., it is with the understanding that what we find there is “profitable” for us; that when we read and understand what the O.T. is relating, it indeed has significant value and impact on us.

I was listening to a “new” genre on Apple Music this weekend. I quickly started to develop an idea on what it is that has allowed folk and country music to last through the past decades, and even take back some popularity recently. It is the sharing of the story of one person’s experience, given in a way to share the wisdom to be gained from that experience with the listener. Through that filter, I was quickly able to begin to know what songs would be “good” country or “fluff” songs.

This is what we find in the O.T. as well, with all the horrific and glorious experiences laid bare in the books of the different writers. This comes with a deeper layer beneath, however, as it is “God-breathed”.

Profitable for Doctrine

Doctrine in Christianity refers to a body of essential theological truths that define and describe the message of the faith, rooted in the life and significance of Jesus Christ[1]. It encompasses both historical facts and their deeper theological interpretations, such as Jesus' death for sins[1]. Doctrine is considered indispensable to Christianity, with the New Testament emphasizing the importance of sound teaching[1]. It serves to summarize Scripture's statements on particular points[2], and is often presented in systematic form through creeds, catechisms, and confessions[3]. Doctrine plays a crucial role in identifying the unity, emphases, implications, and plot of scriptural narratives[3]. It typically focuses on topics such as God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, Trinity, creation, humanity, salvation, the church, and redemption[3]. The term "doctrine" in Scripture affirms that the early church was confessional, reflects the development of thought in the primitive church, and highlights the link between spirituality and doctrinal understanding[1]. While doctrine is essential for Christian identity, it has also been used as a basis for separation between Christian denominations[3].

[1] Hamstra, Sam, Jr. 1996. “Doctrine.” In Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology, electronic ed., 185. Baker Reference Library. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House. [2] Stewart, Alexander. 1911–1912. “DOCTRINE.” In A Dictionary of the Bible: Dealing with Its Language, Literature, and Contents Including the Biblical Theology, edited by James Hastings, John A. Selbie, A. B. Davidson, S. R. Driver, and H. B. Swete, 1:614. New York; Edinburgh: Charles Scribner’s Sons; T. & T. Clark. [3] Thompson, G. J. 2016. “Doctrine.” In New Dictionary of Theology: Historical and Systematic, edited by Martin Davie, Tim Grass, Stephen R. Holmes, John McDowell, and T. A. Noble, Second Edition, 260. London; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press; InterVarsity Press.

Profitable for Reproof

Deuteronomy 4:39 “Therefore know this day, and consider it in your heart, that the Lord Himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other.”

Ephesians 1:10 “that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He (God) might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth—in Him.”

Philippians 2:10 “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth,”

In Isaiah’s book, the prophet relays the message he is sent by God to deliver to Israel. He reminds the Israelites, among other things, that God is not to be trifled with. God’s sovereign authority over all things. Isaiah 28:2–6 “Behold, the Lord has a mighty and strong one, Like a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, Like a flood of mighty waters overflowing, Who will bring them down to the earth with His hand. The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, Will be trampled underfoot; And the glorious beauty is a fading flower Which is at the head of the verdant valley, Like the first fruit before the summer, Which an observer sees; He eats it up while it is still in his hand. In that day the Lord of hosts will be For a crown of glory and a diadem of beauty To the remnant of His people, For a spirit of justice to him who sits in judgment, And for strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate.”

In Chapter 28, the prophet addresses the sins of the Ephraimites, particularly their pride, drunkenness, and failure to heed prophetic warnings. The Ephraimites, despite their fertile land and abundance, misuse their blessings for indulgence, leading to their downfall. The chapter warns of impending judgment from the Assyrians, who will devastate their land and expose their pride. In contrast, a promise of God’s favor is extended to the remnant of Judah, assuring them protection and guidance amidst the chaos. The text emphasizes the importance of humility and the dangers of excess, particularly drunkenness, which has infiltrated both Ephraim and Judah, including their leaders. The prophet highlights the need for repentance and warns that those who indulge in sin will face consequences, while those who remain faithful will receive God’s grace and wisdom. The chapter serves as a reminder of the moral responsibilities of leaders and the community.

Profitable for Correction

The Bible, particularly all of Scripture, is described as profitable for correction, among other purposes[1][2]. This concept of correction in Scripture involves bringing back from error to a just standard of truth, rectitude, justice, or propriety[1]. The apostle Paul emphasizes that Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness, equipping believers for every good work[2]. The Bible serves as a standard for trying doctrines, likened to a plumb-line for measuring correctness[3]. Unlike tools that merely identify faults, the Bible is portrayed as having the power to not only reveal wrongs but also to right them, metaphorically making the "black white"[3]. This correction, while potentially perceived as sharp or severe, is described in one of the articles as coming from a loving, fatherly heart, aimed at reform and improvement rather than destruction[4].

[1] Webster, Noah. 2006. In Noah Webster’s First Edition of An American Dictionary of the English Language. Anaheim, CA: Foundation for American Christian Education. [2] Custer, Stewart. 1998. Tools for Preaching & Teaching the Bible. 2nd ed. Greenville, S.C.: Bob Jones University Press. [3] Dixon, A. C. 2005. Chapter XIX: “The Scriptures.” Vol. 4. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software. [4] Luther, Martin. 1997. Commentary on Galatians. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.

Galatians 4:12 “Brethren, I urge you to become like me, for I became like you. You have not injured me at all.”

Luther’s Commentary on Galatians Chapter Four

These words are to be understood, not of doctrine, but of affections. Therefore the meaning is not: Be ye as I am, that is to say, think of doctrine as I do, but: Bear such an affection towards me as I do towards you. As though he would say: Perhaps I have too sharply chidden you, but pardon this my sharpness, and judge not my heart by my words, but my words by the affection of my heart. My words seem rough, and my chastisement sharp, but my heart is loving and fatherly. Therefore, O my Galatians, take this my chiding with such a mind as I bear towards you: for the matter required that I should show myself so sharp and severe towards you.

A Dictionary of the Bible: Dealing with Its Language, Literature, and Contents Including the Biblical Theology, Volumes I–V Correct, Correction

In

Profitable for Instruction in Righteousness

The Bible, particularly the Old Testament, is described as "profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness"[1][2][3]. This concept emphasizes that Scripture is useful for teaching, guiding, and correcting believers in their faith and conduct[3][4]. The apostle Paul, in his writings, stressed the divine inspiration of Scripture, arguing that even individual words were chosen by God to convey specific meanings[4]. He also highlighted that all Scripture is "God-breathed" and beneficial for equipping believers for good works[4]. The Bible is presented as sufficient for guiding people towards true happiness, with some arguing that additional books are unnecessary if one properly uses the Scriptures[2]. Various passages throughout the Old and New Testaments reinforce the idea of Scripture as a tool for instruction in godly living and understanding the ways of God[3][5].

[1] Smith, James, and Robert Lee. 1971. Handfuls on Purpose for Christian Workers and Bible Students, Series I–XIII. Five-volume edition. Vol. 9. Grand Rapids, MI: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company. [2] Henry, Matthew. 1994. Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged in One Volume. Peabody: Hendrickson. [3] Day, A. Colin. 2009. Collins Thesaurus of the Bible. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software. [4] Custer, Stewart. 1998. Tools for Preaching & Teaching the Bible. 2nd ed. Greenville, S.C.: Bob Jones University Press. [5] Newman, John Henry. 1994. “Obedience without Love, as Instanced in the Character of Balaam.” In John Henry Newman: Selected Sermons, edited by Ian Ker and Bernard McGinn, 197. The Classics of Western Spirituality. New York; Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged in One Volume 1 John 3:4–10

IV. From the connection between the practice of righteousness and a state of righteousness, intimating withal that the practice of sin and a justified state are inconsistent; and this is introduced with a supposition that a surmise to the contrary is a gross deceit: “Little children, dear children, and as much children as you are, herein let no man deceive you. There will be those who will magnify your new light and entertainment of Christianity, who will make you believe that your knowledge, profession, and baptism, will excuse you from the care and accuracy of the Christian life. But beware of such self-deceit. He that doeth righteousness is righteous.” It may appear that righteousness may in several places of scripture be justly rendered religion, as

Knowing God God Has a Plan

Again, Christians have an indwelling Instructor, the Holy Spirit. ‘You have been anointed by the Holy One … the anointing which you received from him abides in you … his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie …’ (

1 Corinthians 10:11 “Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.”

Conclusion

The end goal of our presence here on the Earth was established by God at the beginning, when he created human beings “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Gen 1.27)

Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”