Inconsistencies In The Bible

Zerich Tue 24 Feb 2009, 1:44 pm

February 24, 2009
The Question of Inerrancy
2 Timothy 3:14-17

Pointing out "inconsistencies" has long been a popular pastime among critics of the Bible. Tragically, even some people in influential positions hold the opinion that portions of Scripture are just plain words.

Of course, these critics cannot agree upon which sections are inaccurate. Some would erase a phrase here and there, while others would toss out entire books. This leaves the Christian in the pew fretting over how to distinguish between God's Word and a scribe's opinion. Which expert is credible? I have the answer to that: Trust God as the final authority. The Sovereign of the universe had no trouble keeping Scripture pure.

Reading the Bible as a whole document will reveal that each part is consistent with every other. God did allow for writers' differences in viewpoint and background, which can at times give the appearance of discrepancy. Further study, however, always reveals how the various parts fit together. Consider the Gospels' four angles on one story. Writing to Jewish people, Matthew emphasizes history and the fulfillment of messianic prophecy. Meanwhile, John tells a love story about a Savior willing to die for the world. Though they both traveled in Jesus' company, their perspectives differed. Yet in the fundamentals, they and the other two writers are consistent.

It is critical for believers to trust in the inerrancy of the Scriptures. A flawed book could only be the product of man's hand, but the Bible is the authoritative Word of God. His Spirit did the talking, no matter whose hand set down the message.

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