Four Change Elements

This infographic presents a biblical framework for change, grounded in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which states:

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

The graphic outlines four progressive elements that describe how God’s Word operates in a believer’s life:

1. Teaching (Didaskalia – διδακαλία) – Instruction in God’s truth
2. Conviction or Reproof (Elegchos – ἔλεγχος) – Confrontation of error
3. Correction (Epánorthosis – ἐπανόρθωσις) – Restoration and setting things right
4. Training (Paideia – παιδεία) – Disciplining toward righteousness

Each stage represents a necessary step in biblical transformation, ensuring that the believer is not just informed but also convicted, corrected, and ultimately trained in righteousness.

Greek Word Study and Biblical Process

1. Teaching (Didaskalia – διδακαλία)

This word means doctrine, instruction, or teaching and refers to the process of imparting God’s truth. It is the foundation of change because transformation begins with right thinking (Romans 12:2). Teaching lays the groundwork by illuminating who God is, what He has said, and how we should respond. When we counsel, disciple, or engage in life-over-coffee conversations, we start with teaching God’s Word—bringing His perspective to bear on the situation. Without this step, change lacks a foundation.

2. Conviction or Reproof (Elegchos – ἔλεγχος)

The word elegchos means rebuke, confrontation, or exposure. This step follows teaching because God’s Word not only informs but also reveals error. Hebrews 4:12 describes Scripture as a sharp sword that discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart. At this stage, the person encounters conviction—a realization that their thinking or behavior is misaligned with God’s truth. It’s like being knocked down in a boxing match, a necessary confrontation that stings but is ultimately for one’s good (Proverbs 27:6).

3. Correction (Epánorthosis – ἐπανόρθωσις)

This word literally means restoration to an upright or right state—similar to setting a broken bone. Conviction alone can leave a person discouraged or defeated, but God’s Word does not simply tear down; it also builds up. The goal of correction is not merely to point out sin but to restore the person to the right path. Galatians 6:1 echoes this idea: “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.” Correction is gracious and restorative, guiding the person toward wholeness rather than shaming or condemning.

4. Training (Paideia – παιδεία)

Paideia means discipline, training, or instruction—the lifelong process of walking in righteousness. After being corrected, a person must now develop new habits and patterns of obedience. This stage involves consistent application of God’s truth, much like an athlete undergoing rigorous training. The imagery here is that of a child being trained by a loving father (Hebrews 12:5-11)—it is both instructive and corrective, ensuring that lasting change occurs.

The Sequential Process of Change

This framework offers a biblical template for change, illustrating how the Word, the Spirit, and human agency work together.

1. God’s Word teaches – It reveals truth.
2. God’s Word convicts – It confronts and exposes sin.
3. God’s Word corrects – It restores and sets things right.
4. God’s Word trains – It disciplines toward righteousness.

When applied in counseling or discipleship, this sequence ensures that change is thorough and biblical—not just behavioral modification but heart transformation.

Case Study: Biff and Bert

Biff had been meeting regularly with his friend Bert, who was struggling with bitterness toward a coworker. Bert had been wronged, and instead of responding in a God-honoring way, he had allowed resentment to take root.

Step 1: Teaching – Bringing God’s Word to Bear

Biff started by teaching Bert what Scripture says about forgiveness and God’s justice (Matthew 18:21-35, Romans 12:19). He explained that holding onto bitterness enslaves a person and does not accomplish God’s righteousness (James 1:20).

Step 2: Conviction – The Sting of Truth

As Biff shared God’s perspective, the Spirit of God convicted Bert. He recognized his sin, and it stung—like the faithful wounds of a friend (Proverbs 27:6). He saw that his bitterness was not just a reaction to an offense but a sinful response that dishonored God. At this moment, Bert was knocked down—he saw the ugliness of his unforgiveness and the seriousness of his sin.

Step 3: Correction – Restoring the Broken Bone

Biff didn’t leave Bert in a state of guilt. He reminded him of the gospel’s power to restore. He pointed to Ephesians 4:31-32, encouraging Bert to put off bitterness and put on Christ. Like setting a broken bone, correction was not just about identifying the sin but providing a path to restoration. Bert saw that forgiveness was not about ignoring the offense but entrusting it to God while reflecting Christ’s mercy.

Step 4: Training – Walking in Righteousness

Finally, Biff encouraged Bert to establish new habits. They prayed together, asking God for the strength to forgive daily. Biff also suggested that Bert actively pray for his coworker, a discipline that would shape his heart over time (Matthew 5:44). Bert left with a new direction—not just convicted of sin but equipped to walk in righteousness.

Conclusion: A Biblical Model for Change

This infographic provides a concise yet powerful framework for understanding how God’s Word transforms lives. True biblical change is not simply about behavior modification but about:

1. Learning God’s truth (Teaching)
2. Being convicted by that truth (Reproof)
3. Experiencing restoration through Christ (Correction)
4. Living out that truth daily (Training in righteousness)

Biff and Bert’s case study illustrates how biblical transformation works in real life. Effective discipleship is not just about rebuking sin but about guiding a person toward restoration and righteous living. When we engage in biblical counseling or discipleship, we must follow this full process, ensuring that those we help are not just convicted but also corrected and trained to walk in the ways of Christ.

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Peace,
Rick