[Campion]

If the church, sacraments or history could, Paul would have added them.

Why? He was writing to a Christian bishop whom he, himself, had appointed. "Church" and "sacraments" are obvious from the context.

I have no idea where you're getting history, from, though, unless you mean Timothy's personal history with Paul.

[blue-duncan]

""Church" and "sacraments" are obvious from the context."

There is nothing in the context of 2 Tim. 3 that would lead any one to think Paul was assuming church or sacraments in the context of salvation. The subject is proper doctrine and he says it is the scriptures that are able to make you, not only wise unto salvation but "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."

This is just a continuation of his remarks in 2 Tim. 2:15, " Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness."

Timothy was a young Pastor of the church and was having trouble because of his youth with his preaching and teaching. Paul was giving him, and by extension, us the encouragement that it isn't our age education, personality, or style that makes one wise unto salvation but the Word of God as illuminated by the Holy Spirit.