But this scripture says that the whole Bible is profitable. That means it is a practical and a useful tool, especially for the teacher. It is the standard for testing everything that claims to be true. It is our safeguard against false teaching, by giving warning when one turns aside. It is a source of guidance in the right path. It trains us how to understand how to live. It shows us how to do Christ's work in this world. And this scripture, II Timothy 3:16, is saying that we need all Scripture in order to function properly, even the begats. They are in there for some reason. Scripture combined with the Holy Spirit and experiences are the means by which a person is brought to maturity. We might change that and say it is the means by which we are brought to holiness.
When Paul wrote this to Timothy, the “Scriptures” consisted of what we now call the Old Testament. Paul says that Genesis through Malachi were able to make Timothy wise for salvation through faith in Christ. The Old Testament is just as inspired by God as the New, and Paul says it is profitable, and that it supports our completion, particularly regarding what we must do—that is, our good works.
