Paul writes that "All Scripture is God-breathed." There is some debate about the correct translation for "All Scripture." Of course, we should always strive for the most precise rendering, but the dangers of other translations for the phrase have sometimes been exaggerated. Whether we translate it "all Scripture" or "every Scripture" makes no essential difference – the former declares the whole of Scripture inspired, and the latter declares every part of Scripture inspired. Either way, all of Scripture and every part of it is God-breathed.

It is true that translations such as "every scripture inspired of God is also profitable" and "all inspired Scripture has its use" greatly weaken the verse, since they seem to allow the possibility that at least some parts of the Bible are not inspired. To translate "whatever is Scripture" similarly cripples the verse as a clear text in support of the plenary inspiration of the Bible.

Even with these potential problems, none of these translations actually contradict the divine inspiration of Scripture. Therefore, although the problem is serious, the actual danger is limited. Then, considering the fact that the doctrine of inspiration does not depend on this verse alone, but is attested by a mountain of biblical passages, we must not think that the very truth of inspiration stands or falls on the precise translation of this verse.

Still, some options are better than others, and some attempts are outright distortions. We can offer grammatical arguments showing that "All Scripture" (NIV, ESV) is the most accurate, and we already noted that even to translate "Every Scripture" would not undermine divine inspiration at all.

Although the other options do not contradict inspiration or make it impossible, they should not be considered serious contenders. This is true if for no other reason than that, given the historical and cultural context, and more reliably the Bible's internal evidence, it is impossible for Paul to have in mind the weaker meanings. In fact, the main thrust of the verse is not even to assert the divine inspiration of Scripture, as if Timothy needed to be convinced; rather, Paul merely states the assumption to introduce his subsequent comments and admonitions.

We will not spend any more time on this, since as noted, inspiration is not in danger, and this is sufficient for the point that I am about to make. But there is one more step to take before that.

(to be continued)

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