Inerrancy and 2 Timothy 3:16

myth-one.com wrote:All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (II Timothy 3:16)

Let’s look at the primary proof text for the doctrine of inerrancy.

The phrase “is given by inspiration of God” in the Greek is theopneustos
https://www.blueletterbible.org/kjv/2ti … nc_1128016

Literally, theopneustos means God-breath or God-Spirit. The word is only used once in the Bible. Since it’s not used elsewhere, we do not know exactly what this word means since we cannot compare it to another context of the word usage.

Translating it as “inspired” is not a direct translation, but an interpretation of what theopneustos means. A better translation is “All scripture is God-breathed” which is done in the NIV, ESV and YLT.

When Paul wrote this to Timothy, he was not referring to the New Testament since it was not compiled when he wrote the letter. He was referring to the Old Testament. So, even if this passage is applied to inerrancy, it would technically only apply to the OT.

Most times, when 2 Tim 3:16 is quoted, the next verse is omitted. But, the next verse is the heart of the passage. The primary purpose of the passage is not to declare how scripture is to be viewed, but to say scripture equips men for good works.

[2Ti 3:17 NIV] 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

[2Ti 3:17 YLT] 17 that the man of God may be fitted — for every good work having been completed.

So, if we take the Bible as authoritative, 2 Tim 3:16 offers weak support for the doctrine of inerrancy.

https://debatingchristianity.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=985837#p985837