Verse Smart · Commentary comparison
What do the great Christian commentators say about 2 Timothy 3:16? Below is a side-by-side look at how Matthew Henry, John Calvin, Charles Spurgeon, Albert Barnes, and John Wesley read this passage — where they agree, where they diverge.
2 Timothy 3:16 · WEB
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
Summaries are AI-rendered overviews of public-domain commentaries (Henry, Calvin, Spurgeon, Barnes, Wesley). Always consult primary sources for study.
Reformation
Calvin stresses that Scripture is divinely inspired and carries God's authority. He explains that its purpose is to equip believers for every good work, making them complete in Christ.
“The Bible is God's direct word, making it the ultimate guide for life and faith.”
18th Century
Wesley emphasizes the practical benefit of Scripture, highlighting its power to instruct, correct, and train believers in holiness. He sees it as completely sufficient for spiritual growth and service.
“Scripture's divine origin makes it powerfully effective for shaping a righteous life.”
19th Century
Barnes points to the 'divine inspiration' of all Scripture, meaning it comes directly from God and is therefore unfailing. He details its various uses for spiritual development and guidance.
“Every part of the Bible is God's inspired breath, essential for spiritual maturity.”
19th Century
Spurgeon celebrates the 'inspiration' of the Bible, seeing it as God's perfect and powerful word for all times. He focuses on its immense usefulness in revealing truth and guiding believers.
“The Bible is God's infallible and potent message, entirely sufficient for our needs.”
17th-18th Century
Henry highlights that Scripture is 'God-breathed,' showing its divine authority and reliability, and that it profitable for all aspects of Christian living. He sees it as a complete guide for both doctrine and practice.
“All Scripture is breathed by God and is therefore the perfect tool for living rightly.”