The Apostle Paul exhorted Timothy to engage in a ministry of multiplication rooted in a Body of Truth — that which he heard Paul teach. From this we can conclude that multiplication begins with our own learning. We must be rooted in God’s Word so we have something substantial to pass on to others.
We aren’t trying to multiply through self-improvement plans based on human wisdom. We need to pass on a biblical worldview and divine wisdom, as found in God’s Word.
Bible Teachers Must be Rooted in God’s Word Because That’s What We Entrust to Others
To truly engage in the ministry of multiplication, we need to entrust to others something that stands the test of time, something authoritative, something that is able to change lives.
- God’s Word not only has survived attempts to destroy it but also remains as relevant today as when first written (Matt. 24:35). Hence, we can look at it as a Surety we can rely on since it stands the test of time.
- God’s Word is inspired by the All-Knowing, All-Wise, Almighty God (2 Tim. 3:16). Hence, we can hold to its teachings as an authoritative Standard upon which to make decisions and navigate life.
- God’s Word is sufficient to generate faith (Rom. 10:17) and to not just equip us but to thoroughly equip us (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Hence, we have a Source of power that changes lives.
Only when we ourselves grasp hold of Truth in these ways, in our own hearts and minds, will we have something worth passing on to others. The multiplication suggested in 2 Timothy 2:2 will only happen if it’s rooted in God’s Word. That which is based on our own finite understanding and limited abilities will be insufficient to stand the test of time. It will not have the authority behind it nor the ability to change lives.
A Starting Point: What Bible Teachers Need to Know About God’s Word Worksheet