Disclaimer: In this article, I’ll be using the name “Jesus” as it appears in the KJV Bible. You’re welcome to use whatever form or pronunciation you prefer. This discussion isn’t about the correct way to say the Messiah’s name.
Where does true understanding come from? Is it enough to simply read the words on the page, or do we need something more?
In Psalm 119:104, David says he gains understanding through God’s precepts, hinting that careful study of Scripture is vital. But the Apostle Paul reminds us that knowledge alone isn’t enough—we also need the Holy Spirit’s guidance. In this article, we’ll explore how both deep study of the Word and the Spirit’s work in our hearts come together to give us genuine insight into the Most High’s truth.
Psalms 119:104 KJV Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
Paul Relied on the Spirit, Not on Fancy Words
Paul’s approach to teaching wasn’t about impressing people with big words or showing off his status. Instead, he focused on Jesus sacrifice and trusted the Holy Spirit to give the right kind of understanding:
1Co 2:1-4 KJV 1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
Paul wanted to make sure people depended on the Most High, not on human wisdom or showy talk:
1Co 2:5 KJV 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
In other words, the true wisdom Paul taught (and that all believers should teach) comes from the Most High—through the Spirit—rather than from human methods or clever speeches.
Paul purposely avoided relying on fancy words or oratory skills so people wouldn’t place their faith in human wisdom. If someone’s belief depended on a clever speaker, it could be swept away by someone even more persuasive. Instead, Paul wanted people to rest their faith on God’s power, which never fails and gives a solid, lasting foundation for true belief.
God’s Hidden Wisdom
Paul explains that the true wisdom believers share isn’t the same as what the world calls wisdom—nor is it something worldly leaders can figure out on their own. Their lack of the Holy Spirit keeps them in the dark:
1Co 2:6-8 KJV 6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:
Paul isn’t saying there’s no place for true wisdom in the Christian life. On the contrary, Scripture (especially in Proverbs) emphasizes the importance of wisdom. But here’s the catch: it starts with Christ’s teachings. Worldly knowledge or debate skills aren’t the key—genuine wisdom grows out of faith and spiritual maturity
When Paul talks about speaking wisdom “among them that are perfect,” he’s referring to believers who are spiritually mature, not perfect in a sinless sense. These Corinthians, however, were still “babes” in Christ (1 Corinthians 3:1). Their idea of wisdom was rooted in earthly arguments and “free inquiry,” whereas Paul insists that true wisdom begins with the revelation God gave us in Christ.
7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden [wisdom], which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
In other words, God’s wisdom is hidden from those without the Spirit. If the rulers had truly understood it, they wouldn’t have crucified Jesus. This shows that real insight into God’s plan can’t be discovered through human methods—it comes only through the Spirit He gives.
Paul refers to the wisdom of God as a “mystery.” This term “mystery” doesn’t mean something we can’t ever figure out. It means a divine plan that was once hidden but is now revealed through Christ. We need faith to take hold of it, wisdom to see its depth, and knowledge that grows from experience and study.
This hidden plan wasn’t just kept from human understanding—it was beyond even the angels’ comprehension (1 Peter 1:12). Yet God had it in mind “before the ages,” meaning long before the world began. Humanity’s fall, our need for salvation, and God’s choice to save us through Christ were all part of His eternal counsel—even if no one realized it until Christ actually came.
Paul points out that our human senses can’t grasp the amazing blessings God has prepared for those who love Him. We can’t see or hear these truths on our own. But the Holy Spirit brings them to light:
1Co 2:9-10 KJV 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
It’s the Spirit of God that enables us to understand spiritual realities. Just like no one can really know your thoughts except your own spirit, nobody can know God’s mind except His Spirit:
1Co 2:11 KJV 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
In other words, our eyes and ears only go so far. The Holy Spirit takes us further—revealing God’s deeper plans and truths that we’d never discover on our own.
Paul makes it clear that believers don’t operate on the world’s level of wisdom. Instead, they have the Spirit of God, who reveals everything God wants them to know:
1Co 2:12 KJV 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Because of this, the truths they share come straight from the Holy Spirit—not just human reasoning or clever talk:
1Co 2:13 KJV 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
Someone who relies only on worldly thinking—“the natural man”—won’t grasp these spiritual truths:
1Co 2:14 KJV 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
In other words, understanding the deeper things of God isn’t about being smart in a worldly sense; it’s about letting the Holy Spirit lead. When we do that, spiritual truths click in a way that pure human effort can never achieve
Paul warns Timothy about people who claim to be godly yet act according to the flesh. They might speak well or seem impressive, but their lives don’t reflect real compassion or love:
2Ti 3:1-5 KJV 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers…
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
They act religious, but their hearts are far from God. It’s “unnatural,” Paul says, to be without affection or compassion. When someone lacks genuine love and is guided by pride and selfishness instead of the Spirit, it’s a clear sign to distance yourself from their influence. These people may draw others in with smooth words, but they’re ultimately out for themselves:
2Ti 3:6 KJV 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins…
In other words, if we see no spiritual fruit—no genuine compassion or humility—we need to recognize the danger and walk away.
2 Timothy 3:12 (KJV) Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
2 Timothy 3:13 (KJV) But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
2 Timothy 3:14 (KJV) But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
2 Timothy 3:15 (KJV) 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.
2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV) All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Paul points out that all Scripture comes directly from the breath of God. That means it’s fully inspired by His Spirit, making it useful for teaching, correcting, and guiding us toward a righteous life:
When people stray into evil and deception, it’s often because they aren’t letting God’s Spirit shape their hearts. Instead, Paul reminds Timothy to keep holding on to what he’s learned from the Scriptures—because they have the power to make us wise unto salvation and keep us grounded in the truth.
Paul underscores that the Holy Spirit’s work in us leads to genuine maturity:
2Ti 3:17 KJV 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
When we’re guided by the Spirit, we grow in understanding and are equipped for every good work the Most High calls us to do.
Jesus The True Light
Peter reminds us that Jesus is the ultimate light bringer:
2Pe 1:19 KJV 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:
Following His light helps us see clearly in a world full of spiritual darkness.
Prophecy Comes From God, Not Man
It’s crucial to remember that the prophecies in Scripture aren’t human inventions. They’re messages from the Most High, delivered by men who spoke under the Holy Spirit’s inspiration:
2Pe 1:20-21 KJV 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Whether it’s growing into maturity, shining the light of Jesus, or trusting prophecy, the Spirit is at the heart of it all—guiding us, teaching us, and empowering us to live out God’s will.
When we open the Scriptures, we should do so with the intention of pleasing the Most High, not impressing other people. Paul puts it like this:
2Ti 2:15 KJV 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
In other words, we want to handle the Word of God accurately. That means understanding it as it was intended, so we can stand before God with confidence, knowing we’ve done our best to learn and apply His truth.
Paul also warns us about distractions and empty discussions:
2Ti 2:16 KJV 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
These “vain babblings” can pull us away from what truly matters. If we’re just talking or arguing for the sake of it, we risk losing sight of God’s Word and growing in godliness. Instead, we should focus on profitable study—investing our time and energy in learning, growing, and serving, all for the glory of the Most High
Paul reminds us that if we truly belong to Christ we should turn away from sin:
2Ti 2:19 KJV 19 …The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
This isn’t just about avoiding evil; it’s about preparing ourselves to be used by the Most High for righteous purposes. Paul uses the picture of a big house with different kinds of vessels—some are precious, while others are more ordinary:
2Ti 2:20-21 KJV 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.
In simpler terms, if we clean ourselves up spiritually—meaning we lay aside our sins and let the Word shape our hearts—we become instruments of honor. We’re then ready and available for whatever work the Most High calls us to do. By keeping our focus on living righteously and walking away from the things that dishonor Him, we make room for His power to flow through us in real and meaningful ways.
Even as believers, we have to leave behind the old ways we used to live. Paul specifically challenges Timothy (and all young ministers) to run from the things that often trip people up in the prime of life—like pride, craving attention, or trying to outshine others:
2Ti 2:22 KJV 22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
In Timothy’s case, these “youthful lusts” weren’t necessarily immoral acts (Timothy wasn’t drawn to that). Instead, Paul warns against the desire for fame, recognition, or preeminence—the temptations that hit ministers who are still “young” in their roles. Paul says, “Turn away from that, and chase after better things instead.
What Are These Better Things?
- Righteousness – Doing what’s right in both daily living and ministry.
- Faith – Staying true and grounded in God’s Word.
- Charity (Love) – Leading from a place of genuine care for God’s people.
- Peace – Avoiding petty quarrels, maintaining unity with fellow believers who seek the Lord sincerely.
Following these virtues, rather than the opinions and applause of the crowd, keeps our hearts pure and focused on the Most High. We don’t need others’ approval if we’re faithfully serving Christ. Instead, we choose the company of those who truly worship God, so that together, we can be examples of genuine faith and dedication.
Stay Away From Pointless Arguments
Paul encourages Timothy (and all believers) to steer clear of “foolish and unlearned” discussions—topics that have no real substance or value and only create arguments and division:
2Ti 2:23 KJV 23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
In other words, if a conversation is clearly just going to spark anger and lead nowhere good—especially if it’s about minor details or controversial speculations—don’t waste time on it. These debates can derail our focus from what truly matters (like building one another up in the faith). If you suspect your response may provoke more strife than solution, it’s better to refrain.
We’re called to promote peace and stick to meaningful, edifying conversations that strengthen believers and draw people closer to the Most High. By avoiding pointless disputes, we save our energy for sharing the truth and building genuine community in the Lord.
Be Gentle, Ready to Teach, and Patient
Paul reminds Timothy (and anyone who serves the Lord) to handle people with kindness—even those who challenge the faith:
2Ti 2:24 KJV 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient.
- Not Striving: We’re not supposed to get into heated, pointless arguments for the sake of “winning.” Even if we stand firmly for truth, we do so with respect, not aggression.
- Gentle With Everyone: This includes showing compassion to struggling believers, correcting backsliders with humility, and speaking kindly even to those who oppose the gospel.
- Apt to Teach: We should be ready and willing to explain God’s Word to those who are sincerely seeking, as well as to those who have questions or misunderstandings.
- Patient: We learn to bear insults or opposition without losing our cool. When faced with criticism or resistance, we don’t give up on truth or abandon our calm. Instead, we press on, trusting God to work in people’s hearts.
Ultimately, when we interact with others—friends or foes—our goal is not just to “win” but to help them see God’s truth in a spirit of genuine love.
Speak Truth in Meekness and Hope
Paul finishes this section by emphasizing our responsibility to gently correct those who oppose the truth. Our goal is not to shame or crush them, but to win them back from error:
2Ti 2:25-26 KJV 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
- Instruct Gently
- We speak the truth with humility, recognizing that people trapped in error may be struggling or misled, rather than simply being stubborn.
- Correcting them in a harsh or prideful way can drive them further away.
- Trust God to Bring Repentance
- We can’t force people’s hearts to change. Our job is to share the Word faithfully and in love; God is the One who opens hearts and leads them to repentance.
- Even those in deep confusion or disbelief can be rescued by God’s power.
- Freedom From the Enemy
- Paul uses the picture of someone waking up from a drunken sleep or escaping from a trap. When we point someone back to truth, we’re helping them break out of the devil’s snare.
- Ultimately, the goal is for them not just to leave error behind, but to become willing captives to God’s will—joyfully serving the Lord rather than following falsehood.
This shows the hope we should have: even if someone is deeply off track, God can still reach them. Our part is to speak the truth in a calm, patient way, trusting the Spirit to guide them back into His light.
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