if the O.T. be not inspired, then the N.T. cannot be, for the O.T. histories, doctrines, types

and prophecies are so interwoven into the Gospels, Epistles and the Apocalypse, that the

inspiration of the N.T. is impossible if the inspiration of the O.T. be denied.

We may not be worthy of the title given to Moses, Elisha or Timothy, but we can at

least hold fast that truth which characterized every "man of God", namely that the

Scriptures are the inspired Word of God.

Having seen the extreme importance of the Scriptures in the life and equipment of the

man of God (II Tim. 3: 16, 17) we now turn to their use and application. So full is the

Word, that it not only gives "seed to the sower", but also "bread to the eater" (Isa. 55: 10).

It saves, and it equips for service.

Before we come to the preaching of this inspired Word, with its wondrous doctrine,

and with the most tragic refusal of such inspired teaching, the Apostle pauses to give

Timothy a charge, and turns Timothy's attention away from present suffering, to future

glory, away from the censure of men, to the approval of the one great Judge, away from

this season of His silence, to that day of His appearing and commendation.

A reference to the structure shows how this same aspect influenced the Apostle

himself, he also looked forward to standing before the Judge, and to receiving a crown at

His appearing. This theme lies very near the heart of both Philippians with its "prize"

and II Timothy with its "reigning" and "crown" and must be given most earnest

attention by all who seek to stand approved in that day.

"I charge" diamarturomai. The solemnity of this charge may be gathered from the use

that Moses made of it, when he, too, had finished his course, and was giving his last

testimony to Israel. It occurs five times in the LXX version of Deuteronomy, and the

settings of these five occurrences will show how serious was the apostle when he chose

this word to express his thoughts.

This solemn testimony was consequent upon the sin of idolatry.

This too is consequent upon forgetting God and His leading, and so lapsing into idolatry.