2 Timothy 3:15
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
Study Note
Study Note
Paul's reminder that Timothy has known the 'holy scriptures' (hiera grammata) from childhood through his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois (2 Timothy 1:5) grounds scriptural literacy in family catechesis as well as personal faith. The phrase 'wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus' describes Scripture's christological function: the sacred writings point toward and are understood through the lens of the Messiah. The word 'grammata' here refers specifically to the Jewish scriptures — what Christians call the Old Testament — read in the context of the new covenant. Together with verse 16, this passage became foundational for Protestant doctrines of Scripture as the norm for faith and practice.
Other Translations
and that from a babe thou hast known the sacred writings which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
and because from a babe the Holy Writings thou hast known, which are able to make thee wise--to salvation, through faith that <FI>is<Fi> in Christ Jesus;
And that from the time when you were a child, you have had knowledge of the holy Writings, which are able to make you wise to salvation, through faith in Christ Jesus.
Cross References
But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
For in the eighth year of his reign, while he was yet young, he began to seek after the God …
The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the …
O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.
Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from …
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw …
But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth …