Monday, February 19, 2024

The Sword Of Reproof

All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be equipped, having been thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 LSB

From Oxford Languages we have: reproof, an expression of blame or disapproval. Mirriam-Webster tells us reproof is: criticism for a fault, rebuke. We tend to like this passage for that very reason, the sword of reproof makes us feel knowledgeable and powerful in the Word.

As with any sword placed in our hands, we must learn to use it well. Otherwise, we may find it cutting us and those we love. Ah, yes, love, is that not the first and second most important commands of our Savior, known in the first part of John as the Word? If one has not learned to love well, first and second, then perhaps the sword of reproof can wait for another time.

There! Consider yourselves reproofed. Wait, what? Oh no, where's the love first? Or second?

May the love of God and for each other come first in us always,

Bucky

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