“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 perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Discussion
When the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse is inevitable (Dr. Myles Munroe). There are many who use the bible primarily as a tool for generating prayer points. Others use it only to search out wisdom keys for financial investments, or to find verses to ‘back up’ their ideologies. But why exactly did God give us the scriptures? Looking at our opening verse, we see that the scriptures were given to us for doctrine (instruction, learning, teaching), for conviction, for correction and for instruction in righteousness (regarding our righteousness in Christ), all for the purpose of first maturing the man of God and equipping him to do the good works commanded in the scriptures; bringing the body of Christ into maturity (Teliosis; perfection. Eph 4:11-14). The man of God as indicated in the opening verse, must be fully formed; mature and fully equipped to do the good works assigned to us by Jesus (Matt 28:18 – 20). This is what the word of God is for. This is what the Bible you're reading is for.
The Bible is not to be read simply to get prayer points. It is not a compendium of prayer points, neither is it to be used to ‘back up’ your ideologies; this is a gross misuse of an eternal gift. Too many ministers do this, and this is far from accurate. Rather, study to know God, and to be fully equipped to carry out your God given assignment. Study to grow into spiritual maturity yourself, then you can accurately lead the people in the way God has already led you through. As a church leader or a teacher of people, the sheep in your care are not your "Test subjects", neither are they your system for personal financial security. Get the word for yourself, then feed them the word, lead them to the point where Christ is fully formed in them. Get to it! Or Get out! (Jer 3:15, Gal 4:19)
Meditation
2Timothy 3:16-17 — 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 perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.