Rightly Dividing the Word

[2Tim 2:15]

2Tim 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Study: is from the word spoudazo (spoo-dad’-zo) Diligence, Diligent, Diligently, Endeavor. This is why Paul used the word “workman” later in this same verse.

This Greek word was used eleven times in the New Testament, and this is the only time it was translated “study.” It was translated “forward” (Gal 2:10), “endeavoring” (Eph 4:3), “endeavored” (1Thes 2:17), “endeavor” (2Pet 1:15), “do thy diligence” (2Tim 4:9 and 21), “diligent” (Titus 3:12 and 2Pet 3:14), “diligence” (2Pet 1:10), and “labour” (Heb 4:11). So it means a lot more than just study.

This verse has been interpreted to say that if we study well, God approves of us. However, I prefer to interpret it as, through our study, we prove to ourselves that we have been approved, or accepted of God through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Rightly dividing the Word is knowing what the words mean and who the Scripture is talking to or about. Is the Word talking to the Jews, the Nations, or the Church?

Say this about your Bible study:

I endeavor diligently to understand how the words in Scripture are used. And, like a workman or a laborer, I investigate the the meaning of the words in question. Then, when I share the word with others, I am not ashamed. Since I have an adequate understanding from having done my homework.

God bless you my friend,

— Dwight Hammond