the bible are there any errors? copyright by norman l. geisler 2009

The BibleThe BibleThe BibleThe Bible

Are There Any Are There Any Errors? Errors? Copyright by Norman Copyright by Norman

L. Geisler 2009L. Geisler 2009

Are There Any Are There Any Errors? Errors? Copyright by Norman Copyright by Norman

L. Geisler 2009L. Geisler 2009

Three Reasons the Three Reasons the Bible Cannot ErrBible Cannot Err

•God the FatherGod the Father •God the SonGod the Son •God the Holy SpiritGod the Holy Spirit

Reason One: God the Reason One: God the FatherFather

•God cannot err.God cannot err. •The Bible is the Word of The Bible is the Word of

God.God. •Therefore, the Bible Therefore, the Bible

cannot err.cannot err.

The Thesis:The Thesis:

The Bible Which isThe Bible Which is

the Word ofthe Word ofGod Cannot Err.God Cannot Err.

The Logic:The Logic:

The Bible Which isThe Bible Which is

God Cannot Err.God Cannot Err.

the Word ofthe Word of

If...If...

God Cannot ErrGod Cannot Err

Then...Then... Then...Then...

The Word of God cannot The Word of God cannot errerr

And And if...if...

The Bible is the The Bible is the Word of GodWord of God

Then...Then...

The Bible cannot The Bible cannot err.err.

The only The only alternatives:alternatives:

1.1.Deny: Deny: "God "God

cannot cannot err."err."

Deny: Deny: "The Bible "The Bible is the Word is the Word of God."of God."

OORR

But God Cannot But God Cannot Err:Err:

Jesus said:Jesus said: "Your Word is truth." (Jn. "Your Word is truth." (Jn. 17:17)17:17)Jesus said:Jesus said: "Your Word is truth." (Jn. "Your Word is truth." (Jn. 17:17)17:17)

Hebrews saysHebrews says:: ""It is impossible for It is impossible for God to lie.God to lie." (6:18)" (6:18)Hebrews saysHebrews says:: ""It is impossible for It is impossible for God to lie.God to lie." (6:18)" (6:18)

The psalmist said:The psalmist said: "The sum of "The sum of your word is truth.” (119:160)your word is truth.” (119:160)The psalmist said:The psalmist said: "The sum of "The sum of your word is truth.” (119:160)your word is truth.” (119:160)

Paul said:Paul said: "Let God be true…." "Let God be true…." (Rom. 3:4)(Rom. 3:4) "The God who cannot "The God who cannot lie." (Titus 1:2)lie." (Titus 1:2)

Paul said:Paul said: "Let God be true…." "Let God be true…." (Rom. 3:4)(Rom. 3:4) "The God who cannot "The God who cannot lie." (Titus 1:2)lie." (Titus 1:2)

And The Bible is the Word And The Bible is the Word of Godof God And The Bible is the Word And The Bible is the Word of Godof God

Jesus said so:Jesus said so:

"If he called them gods, unto whom "If he called them gods, unto whom the word of Godthe word of God came, and came, and the scripturethe scripture cannot be broken." (Jn. 10:34-35) cannot be broken." (Jn. 10:34-35)

““Laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the Laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the traditions of men…, making traditions of men…, making the word of Godthe word of God of no effect of no effect through your traditions” (Mk. 7:8, 13).through your traditions” (Mk. 7:8, 13).

Jesus said so:Jesus said so:

"If he called them gods, unto whom "If he called them gods, unto whom the word of Godthe word of God came, and came, and the scripturethe scripture cannot be broken." (Jn. 10:34-35) cannot be broken." (Jn. 10:34-35)

““Laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the Laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the traditions of men…, making traditions of men…, making the word of Godthe word of God of no effect of no effect through your traditions” (Mk. 7:8, 13).through your traditions” (Mk. 7:8, 13).

Paul said so:Paul said so:

"All scripture is given by "All scripture is given by inspiration of inspiration of GodGod…." (2 Tim. …." (2 Tim. 3:16)3:16)

"Not as though the "Not as though the word of Godword of God hath taken hath taken none effect.” none effect.”

(Rom. 9:6)(Rom. 9:6)

Paul said so:Paul said so:

"All scripture is given by "All scripture is given by inspiration of inspiration of GodGod…." (2 Tim. …." (2 Tim. 3:16)3:16)

"Not as though the "Not as though the word of Godword of God hath taken hath taken none effect.” none effect.”

(Rom. 9:6)(Rom. 9:6)

Therefore...Therefore...

1.1. The Bible is the Word of God.The Bible is the Word of God.

2.2. God cannot err.God cannot err.

3.3. Hence, the Bible cannot err.Hence, the Bible cannot err.

1.1. The Bible is the Word of God.The Bible is the Word of God.


3.3. Hence, the Bible cannot err.Hence, the Bible cannot err.

Reason Two: God the Son.Reason Two: God the Son. Reason Two: God the Son.Reason Two: God the Son.

1.1. Whatever the Son of God affirmed as true, Whatever the Son of God affirmed as true, is true.is true.

2.2. Jesus affirmed the Bible is the Word of God.Jesus affirmed the Bible is the Word of God.

3.3. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God.Word of God.

4.4. But the Word of God cannot err.But the Word of God cannot err.

5.5. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.Therefore, the Bible cannot err.

1.1. Whatever the Son of God affirmed as true, Whatever the Son of God affirmed as true, is true.is true.

2.2. Jesus affirmed the Bible is the Word of God.Jesus affirmed the Bible is the Word of God.

3.3. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God.Word of God.

4.4. But the Word of God cannot err.But the Word of God cannot err.

5.5. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.Therefore, the Bible cannot err.

Jesus affirmed the Bible has:Jesus affirmed the Bible has:Jesus affirmed the Bible has:Jesus affirmed the Bible has:1.1. Divine authority (Mt. 4:4, 7, 10)Divine authority (Mt. 4:4, 7, 10)

2.2. Indestructibility (Mt. 5:17-18)Indestructibility (Mt. 5:17-18)

3.3. Unbreakability (Jn. 10:35)Unbreakability (Jn. 10:35)

4.4. Ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 5)Ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 5)

5.5. Historical reliability (Mt. 12:40; Historical reliability (Mt. 12:40; 24:37-38)24:37-38)

6.6. Scientific accuracy (Mt. 19:4-5; Jn. Scientific accuracy (Mt. 19:4-5; Jn. 3:12)3:12)

7.7. Factual inerrancy (Mt. 22:39; Jn. Factual inerrancy (Mt. 22:39; Jn. 17:17)17:17)

1.1. Divine authority (Mt. 4:4, 7, 10)Divine authority (Mt. 4:4, 7, 10)

2.2. Indestructibility (Mt. 5:17-18)Indestructibility (Mt. 5:17-18)

3.3. Unbreakability (Jn. 10:35)Unbreakability (Jn. 10:35)

4.4. Ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 5)Ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 5)

5.5. Historical reliability (Mt. 12:40; Historical reliability (Mt. 12:40; 24:37-38)24:37-38)

6.6. Scientific accuracy (Mt. 19:4-5; Jn. Scientific accuracy (Mt. 19:4-5; Jn. 3:12)3:12)

7.7. Factual inerrancy (Mt. 22:39; Jn. Factual inerrancy (Mt. 22:39; Jn. 17:17)17:17)

The Painful Dilemma for The Painful Dilemma for Bible Critics:Bible Critics: The Painful Dilemma for The Painful Dilemma for Bible Critics:Bible Critics:

1.1. If Jesus is the Son of God...If Jesus is the Son of God...

2.2. Then the Bible is the Word of Then the Bible is the Word of God.God.

And...And...

1.1. If the Bible is not the Word of If the Bible is not the Word of God...God...

2.2. Then Jesus is not the Son of Then Jesus is not the Son of God.God.

1.1. If Jesus is the Son of God...If Jesus is the Son of God...

2.2. Then the Bible is the Word of Then the Bible is the Word of God.God.

And...And...

1.1. If the Bible is not the Word of If the Bible is not the Word of God...God...

2.2. Then Jesus is not the Son of Then Jesus is not the Son of God.God.

A Bad Argument:A Bad Argument:A Bad Argument:A Bad Argument:

1.1. The Bible is the words of human The Bible is the words of human beings.beings.

2.2. Human beings err.Human beings err.

3.3. Therefore, the Bible errs.Therefore, the Bible errs.




The Bad Premise:The Bad Premise: The Bad Premise:The Bad Premise: 1.1. The Bible is the words of human The Bible is the words of human

beings.beings.






The Error:The Error: The Error:The Error: • Human beings do not Human beings do not alwaysalways err. err.

And…And…• Human beings did not err when moved by Human beings did not err when moved by

God who cannot err (2 Peter 1:20-21).God who cannot err (2 Peter 1:20-21).• ““God can draw a straight line with a God can draw a straight line with a

crooked stick.”crooked stick.”

• Human beings do not Human beings do not alwaysalways err. err.

And…And…• Human beings did not err when moved by Human beings did not err when moved by

God who cannot err (2 Peter 1:20-21).God who cannot err (2 Peter 1:20-21).• ““God can draw a straight line with a God can draw a straight line with a

crooked stick.”crooked stick.”

Peter said:Peter said: "For the prophecy came "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke as they were holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:21)1:21)

Peter said:Peter said: "For the prophecy came "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke as they were holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:21)1:21)

Jesus said:Jesus said: "But the Comforter, which "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost . . . shall teach you is the Holy Ghost . . . shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (Jn. 14:26)unto you." (Jn. 14:26)

Jesus said:Jesus said: "But the Comforter, which "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost . . . shall teach you is the Holy Ghost . . . shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (Jn. 14:26)unto you." (Jn. 14:26)

A Good Analogy:A Good Analogy: A Good Analogy:A Good Analogy:

Divine NatureDivine Nature Divine NatureDivine Nature Human NatureHuman Nature Human Human NatureNature One in Person One in One in Person One in Propositions Propositions Without SinWithout Sin Without ErrorWithout Error

The Living Word The Living Word The The Written WordWritten Word

((Savior) Savior) (Scripture) (Scripture)

Jesus Jesus “was without sin" (Heb. 4:15); “was without sin" (Heb. 4:15); "had no sin" (2 Cor. 5:21); "had no sin" (2 Cor. 5:21); “ “was without blemish or defect" (1 Pet. was without blemish or defect" (1 Pet.

1:19); 1:19); “ “was pure" and "righteous" (1Jn. 2:1; 3:3).was pure" and "righteous" (1Jn. 2:1; 3:3).

Jesus Jesus “was without sin" (Heb. 4:15); “was without sin" (Heb. 4:15); "had no sin" (2 Cor. 5:21); "had no sin" (2 Cor. 5:21); “ “was without blemish or defect" (1 Pet. was without blemish or defect" (1 Pet.

1:19); 1:19); “ “was pure" and "righteous" (1Jn. 2:1; 3:3).was pure" and "righteous" (1Jn. 2:1; 3:3).

The Bible The Bible "is God-breathed" (2 Tim. "is God-breathed" (2 Tim. 3:16); 3:16);

"is out of the mouth of God“ "is out of the mouth of God“ (Mt. 4:4);(Mt. 4:4);

"is perfect" (Psa. 19:7); "is perfect" (Psa. 19:7);

"cannot be broken" (Jn. "cannot be broken" (Jn. 10:35).10:35).

The Bible The Bible "is God-breathed" (2 Tim. "is God-breathed" (2 Tim. 3:16); 3:16);

"is out of the mouth of God“ "is out of the mouth of God“ (Mt. 4:4);(Mt. 4:4);

"is perfect" (Psa. 19:7); "is perfect" (Psa. 19:7);

"cannot be broken" (Jn. "cannot be broken" (Jn. 10:35).10:35).

Likewise,Likewise,

Reason Three: God the Holy Reason Three: God the Holy SpiritSpirit

The Logic of the Argument:The Logic of the Argument: 1.1. The Spirit of Truth cannot The Spirit of Truth cannot

utter error.utter error.

2.2. The Bible is the utterance of The Bible is the utterance of the Spirit of Truth.the Spirit of Truth.

3.3. Therefore, the Bible cannot Therefore, the Bible cannot err.err.

1.1. The Spirit of Truth cannot The Spirit of Truth cannot utter error.utter error.



The Bible is a Spirit Uttered The Bible is a Spirit Uttered Book:Book:

The Bible is a Spirit Uttered The Bible is a Spirit Uttered Book:Book:

• "The Spirit of the LORD spoke by me, and "The Spirit of the LORD spoke by me, and his his word was on my tongueword was on my tongue." (2 Sam. 23:2)." (2 Sam. 23:2)

• "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by but by every word that proceeds out of the every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God."mouth of God." (Mt. 4:4) (Mt. 4:4)

• "How is it when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, "How is it when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will he will guide you into all truth.”guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) (John 16:13)

• "...not in the words which man's wisdom "...not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but teaches, but [in words] which the Holy Spirit [in words] which the Holy Spirit teaches.…”teaches.…” (1 Cor. 2:13) (1 Cor. 2:13)

• ""All scripture [writing] is given by inspiration of All scripture [writing] is given by inspiration of GodGod…." (2 Tim. 3:16)…." (2 Tim. 3:16)

• "The Spirit of the LORD spoke by me, and "The Spirit of the LORD spoke by me, and his his word was on my tongueword was on my tongue." (2 Sam. 23:2)." (2 Sam. 23:2)

• "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by but by every word that proceeds out of the every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God."mouth of God." (Mt. 4:4) (Mt. 4:4)

• "How is it when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, "How is it when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will he will guide you into all truth.”guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) (John 16:13)

• "...not in the words which man's wisdom "...not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but teaches, but [in words] which the Holy Spirit [in words] which the Holy Spirit teaches.…”teaches.…” (1 Cor. 2:13) (1 Cor. 2:13)

• ""All scripture [writing] is given by inspiration of All scripture [writing] is given by inspiration of GodGod…." (2 Tim. 3:16)…." (2 Tim. 3:16)

Reason Three: God the Holy Reason Three: God the Holy SpiritSpirit

The Logic of the Argument:The Logic of the Argument: 1.1. The Spirit of Truth cannot The Spirit of Truth cannot

utter error.utter error.



1.1. The Spirit of Truth cannot The Spirit of Truth cannot utter error.utter error.



Conclusion: The Bible Cannot Err Conclusion: The Bible Cannot Err Because:Because:Conclusion: The Bible Cannot Err Conclusion: The Bible Cannot Err Because:Because:

1.1. The Bible is the Word of The Bible is the Word of God, God,

and--and--


2.2. Therefore, the Bible Therefore, the Bible cannot err.cannot err.

1.1. The Bible is the Word of The Bible is the Word of God, God,

and--and--


2.2. Therefore, the Bible Therefore, the Bible cannot err.cannot err.

Three Reasons the Bible Three Reasons the Bible Cannot Err:Cannot Err:Three Reasons the Bible Three Reasons the Bible Cannot Err:Cannot Err:• Reason One:Reason One: God the Father cannot err.God the Father cannot err.• Reason Two:Reason Two: God the Son cannot err.God the Son cannot err.• Reason Three:Reason Three: God the Holy Spirit cannot error.God the Holy Spirit cannot error.

• Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:• The The authenticityauthenticity of God the Father of God the Father• The The authorityauthority of God the Son of God the Son• The The ministry ministry of God the Spiritof God the Spirit

• Reason One:Reason One: God the Father cannot err.God the Father cannot err.• Reason Two:Reason Two: God the Son cannot err.God the Son cannot err.• Reason Three:Reason Three: God the Holy Spirit cannot error.God the Holy Spirit cannot error.

• Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:• The The authenticityauthenticity of God the Father of God the Father• The The authorityauthority of God the Son of God the Son• The The ministry ministry of God the Spiritof God the Spirit

A Helpful Comparison:A Helpful Comparison:A Helpful Comparison:A Helpful Comparison:

Continued ResearchContinued Research Continued Research Continued Research

Study of ScienceStudy of Science Study of Study of BibleBibleStudy of ScienceStudy of Science Study of Study of BibleBibleMany DifficultiesMany Difficulties Many Many DifficultiesDifficultiesAssumed ExplainabilityAssumed Explainability Assumed Assumed ExplainabilityExplainabilityMany are explainableMany are explainable Many are Many are explainableexplainable

St. Augustine's St. Augustine's Dictum:Dictum: St. Augustine's St. Augustine's Dictum:Dictum:

““If we are perplexed by If we are perplexed by any apparent any apparent contradiction in contradiction in Scripture, it is not Scripture, it is not allowable to say, The allowable to say, The author of this book is author of this book is mistaken; but either [1] mistaken; but either [1] the manuscript is faulty, the manuscript is faulty, or [2] the translation is or [2] the translation is wrong, or [3] you have wrong, or [3] you have not understood.”not understood.” (Augustine(Augustine, Reply to , Reply to Faustus 11.5Faustus 11.5))

““If we are perplexed by If we are perplexed by any apparent any apparent contradiction in contradiction in Scripture, it is not Scripture, it is not allowable to say, The allowable to say, The author of this book is author of this book is mistaken; but either [1] mistaken; but either [1] the manuscript is faulty, the manuscript is faulty, or [2] the translation is or [2] the translation is wrong, or [3] you have wrong, or [3] you have not understood.”not understood.” (Augustine(Augustine, Reply to , Reply to Faustus 11.5Faustus 11.5))

The Errors of the The Errors of the CriticsCritics

""The Bible is without errors…The Bible is without errors…

BuButt

the critics the critics are not."are not."

Error # 1 of the Critics: Error # 1 of the Critics: Presuming the Bible Guilty Until Presuming the Bible Guilty Until Proven InnocentProven Innocent..

Error # 1 of the Critics: Error # 1 of the Critics: Presuming the Bible Guilty Until Presuming the Bible Guilty Until Proven InnocentProven Innocent..

Like an American citizen, the Bible Like an American citizen, the Bible should be presumed innocent until it should be presumed innocent until it is proven guilty. is proven guilty.

Like an American citizen, the Bible Like an American citizen, the Bible should be presumed innocent until it should be presumed innocent until it is proven guilty. is proven guilty.

What if we presumed...What if we presumed...What if we presumed...What if we presumed...

• Road signs were Road signs were wrong?wrong?

• Traffic signals were not Traffic signals were not right?right?

• Labels on food were Labels on food were incorrect?incorrect?

• Numbers on currency Numbers on currency were wrong?were wrong?

• Signs on restrooms Signs on restrooms were reversed? were reversed?

• Disaster would result!!!Disaster would result!!!

• Road signs were Road signs were wrong?wrong?

• Traffic signals were not Traffic signals were not right?right?

• Labels on food were Labels on food were incorrect?incorrect?

• Numbers on currency Numbers on currency were wrong?were wrong?

• Signs on restrooms Signs on restrooms were reversed? were reversed?

• Disaster would result!!!Disaster would result!!!

Gentlemen

Error # 2 of the Critics: Confusing Error # 2 of the Critics: Confusing Our Fallible Our Fallible InterpretationInterpretation with with God's Infallible God's Infallible Revelation?Revelation?

Error # 2 of the Critics: Confusing Error # 2 of the Critics: Confusing Our Fallible Our Fallible InterpretationInterpretation with with God's Infallible God's Infallible Revelation?Revelation?

The Bible cannot be wrong, but--The Bible cannot be wrong, but--Our interpretation of it can be Our interpretation of it can be

wrong.wrong. The Bible is infallible, but--The Bible is infallible, but--

The Bible cannot be wrong, but--The Bible cannot be wrong, but--Our interpretation of it can be Our interpretation of it can be

wrong.wrong. The Bible is infallible, but--The Bible is infallible, but--

we are we are not!not!

GODGODGODGOD

General Revelation General Revelation no conflictno conflict Special RevelationSpecial Revelation

(Facts of Science)(Facts of Science) (Facts (Facts of Scripture)of Scripture)

Views of Scientists Views of Scientists conflictconflict Views of Views of TheologiansTheologians

General Revelation General Revelation no conflictno conflict Special RevelationSpecial Revelation

(Facts of Science)(Facts of Science) (Facts (Facts of Scripture)of Scripture)

Views of Scientists Views of Scientists conflictconflict Views of Views of TheologiansTheologians

Error # 3 of the Critics: Assuming Error # 3 of the Critics: Assuming That the Unexplained is not That the Unexplained is not Explainable.Explainable.

Error # 3 of the Critics: Assuming Error # 3 of the Critics: Assuming That the Unexplained is not That the Unexplained is not Explainable.Explainable.

• Science once had no explanation for Science once had no explanation for meteors, eclipses, tornadoes, meteors, eclipses, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, or how the hurricanes, earthquakes, or how the bumblebee could fly. bumblebee could fly.

• All these are now explained.All these are now explained.• More will be explained in the future.More will be explained in the future.• THE SAME IS TRUE OF BIBLE THE SAME IS TRUE OF BIBLE

DIFFICULTIES!DIFFICULTIES!

• Science once had no explanation for Science once had no explanation for meteors, eclipses, tornadoes, meteors, eclipses, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, or how the hurricanes, earthquakes, or how the bumblebee could fly. bumblebee could fly.

• All these are now explained.All these are now explained.• More will be explained in the future.More will be explained in the future.• THE SAME IS TRUE OF BIBLE THE SAME IS TRUE OF BIBLE

DIFFICULTIES!DIFFICULTIES!

Error # 4 of the Critics: Error # 4 of the Critics: Assuming that a Partial Report Assuming that a Partial Report is a False Reportis a False Report

Error # 4 of the Critics: Error # 4 of the Critics: Assuming that a Partial Report Assuming that a Partial Report is a False Reportis a False Report

Example:Example: The Inscription on the The Inscription on the Cross:Cross:

• Matthew- Matthew- THIS IS JESUS THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.THE KING OF THE JEWS.

• Mark - Mark - THE KING OF THE THE KING OF THE JEWS.JEWS.

• Luke - Luke - THIS ISTHIS IS THE KING OF THE THE KING OF THE JEWS.JEWS.

• John - John - JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.

Example:Example: The Inscription on the The Inscription on the Cross:Cross:

• Matthew- Matthew- THIS IS JESUS THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.THE KING OF THE JEWS.

• Mark - Mark - THE KING OF THE THE KING OF THE JEWS.JEWS.

• Luke - Luke - THIS ISTHIS IS THE KING OF THE THE KING OF THE JEWS.JEWS.

• John - John - JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.COMPLETE:COMPLETE: THIS IS JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THIS IS JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.THE JEWS.

Note:Note:• Each has the essential part of it.Each has the essential part of it.• All together gives the whole All together gives the whole

statement.statement.

• Each has the essential part of it.Each has the essential part of it.• All together gives the whole All together gives the whole

statement.statement.

Error # 5 of the Critics: Error # 5 of the Critics: Assuming That Divergent Assuming That Divergent Accounts are False OnesAccounts are False Ones

Error # 5 of the Critics: Error # 5 of the Critics: Assuming That Divergent Assuming That Divergent Accounts are False OnesAccounts are False Ones

Example # 1:Example # 1:

Matthew Matthew (28:5) said there (28:5) said there was onewas one angel at the tomb. angel at the tomb.

JohnJohn (20:12) said there (20:12) said there were twowere two angels angels there.there.

Resolution:Resolution: Wherever there Wherever there are are twotwo, , there is always there is always oneone. . It Never Fails!It Never Fails!

Note: Note: Matthew did not say there was Matthew did not say there was only only one angel there.one angel there.

Example # 1:Example # 1:

Matthew Matthew (28:5) said there (28:5) said there was onewas one angel at the tomb. angel at the tomb.

JohnJohn (20:12) said there (20:12) said there were twowere two angels angels there.there.

Resolution:Resolution: Wherever there Wherever there are are twotwo, , there is always there is always oneone. . It Never Fails!It Never Fails!

Note: Note: Matthew did not say there was Matthew did not say there was only only one angel there.one angel there.

Example # 2Example # 2Example # 2Example # 2

Matthew (27:5): Judas "hanged Matthew (27:5): Judas "hanged himself.“himself.“

Acts (1:18):Acts (1:18): "...falling headlong, he "...falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all burst open in the middle and all his entrails gushed out." his entrails gushed out."

Resolution:Resolution: Sometime after hanging Sometime after hanging

himself, his body was discovered, himself, his body was discovered, the rope cut, and the body fell on the rope cut, and the body fell on sharp rocks and it burst open.sharp rocks and it burst open.

Matthew (27:5): Judas "hanged Matthew (27:5): Judas "hanged himself.“himself.“

Acts (1:18):Acts (1:18): "...falling headlong, he "...falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all burst open in the middle and all his entrails gushed out." his entrails gushed out."

Resolution:Resolution: Sometime after hanging Sometime after hanging

himself, his body was discovered, himself, his body was discovered, the rope cut, and the body fell on the rope cut, and the body fell on sharp rocks and it burst open.sharp rocks and it burst open.

Error # 6 of the Critics: Forgetting Error # 6 of the Critics: Forgetting That the Bible Uses Non-technical, That the Bible Uses Non-technical, Everyday LanguageEveryday Language

Error # 6 of the Critics: Forgetting Error # 6 of the Critics: Forgetting That the Bible Uses Non-technical, That the Bible Uses Non-technical, Everyday LanguageEveryday Language

• The Bible was written for the common man The Bible was written for the common man in common language.in common language.

• It uses everyday, observational language.It uses everyday, observational language.• This is not This is not ununscientific; it is merely scientific; it is merely

preprescientific. scientific.

Illustrations:Illustrations: It speaks of the sun " It speaks of the sun "standing standing stillstill" (Josh. 10:12) and the sun "" (Josh. 10:12) and the sun "risingrising." ." (Josh. 1:16) (Josh. 1:16)

• The Bible was written for the common man The Bible was written for the common man in common language.in common language.

• It uses everyday, observational language.It uses everyday, observational language.• This is not This is not ununscientific; it is merely scientific; it is merely

preprescientific. scientific.

Illustrations:Illustrations: It speaks of the sun " It speaks of the sun "standing standing stillstill" (Josh. 10:12) and the sun "" (Josh. 10:12) and the sun "risingrising." ." (Josh. 1:16) (Josh. 1:16)

But even contemporary But even contemporary meteorologists speak of meteorologists speak of “sunrise" and “sunset."“sunrise" and “sunset."

But even contemporary But even contemporary meteorologists speak of meteorologists speak of “sunrise" and “sunset."“sunrise" and “sunset."

No scientist says: No scientist says: "Honey, look at the "Honey, look at the

beautiful earth rotation!"beautiful earth rotation!"

No scientist says: No scientist says: "Honey, look at the "Honey, look at the

beautiful earth rotation!"beautiful earth rotation!"

Error # 7 of the Critics: Error # 7 of the Critics: Assuming That Round Assuming That Round Numbers Are FalseNumbers Are False

Error # 7 of the Critics: Error # 7 of the Critics: Assuming That Round Assuming That Round Numbers Are FalseNumbers Are False

The Bible presents Pi as 3 (not The Bible presents Pi as 3 (not 3.14159265....). (2 Chrn. 4:2)3.14159265....). (2 Chrn. 4:2)

But even scientists round off pi to a But even scientists round off pi to a limited number of points.limited number of points.

Pi goes on indefinitely and, so, even Pi goes on indefinitely and, so, even scientists are not precise, since even scientists are not precise, since even they round it off.they round it off.

The Bible presents Pi as 3 (not The Bible presents Pi as 3 (not 3.14159265....). (2 Chrn. 4:2)3.14159265....). (2 Chrn. 4:2)

But even scientists round off pi to a But even scientists round off pi to a limited number of points.limited number of points.

Pi goes on indefinitely and, so, even Pi goes on indefinitely and, so, even scientists are not precise, since even scientists are not precise, since even they round it off.they round it off.

3.14159265...3.14159265...

Error # 8 of the Critics: Presuming Error # 8 of the Critics: Presuming That the Bible Approves of All it That the Bible Approves of All it RecordsRecords

Error # 8 of the Critics: Presuming Error # 8 of the Critics: Presuming That the Bible Approves of All it That the Bible Approves of All it RecordsRecords

Satan's lie (Gen. 3:4; cf. John 8:44); Satan's lie (Gen. 3:4; cf. John 8:44);

David's Adultery (2 Sam 11);David's Adultery (2 Sam 11);

Solomon's Polygamy (1 Kings 11:1);Solomon's Polygamy (1 Kings 11:1);

That Fools say "There is no God" (Psa. That Fools say "There is no God" (Psa. 14:1).14:1).

Satan's lie (Gen. 3:4; cf. John 8:44); Satan's lie (Gen. 3:4; cf. John 8:44);

David's Adultery (2 Sam 11);David's Adultery (2 Sam 11);

Solomon's Polygamy (1 Kings 11:1);Solomon's Polygamy (1 Kings 11:1);

That Fools say "There is no God" (Psa. That Fools say "There is no God" (Psa. 14:1).14:1).

Things the Bible Things the Bible recordsrecords but does but does notnot approveapprove..

Error # 9 of the Critics: Taking Error # 9 of the Critics: Taking Figures of Speech Literally.Figures of Speech Literally.

All the Bible is literally true, but--All the Bible is literally true, but--Not all the Bible is true literally (vs. Not all the Bible is true literally (vs. figuratively)figuratively)

Error # 9 of the Critics: Taking Error # 9 of the Critics: Taking Figures of Speech Literally.Figures of Speech Literally.

All the Bible is literally true, but--All the Bible is literally true, but--Not all the Bible is true literally (vs. Not all the Bible is true literally (vs. figuratively)figuratively)

Poetry-- Poetry-- "When the morning stars sang "When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?” (Job 38:7)joy?” (Job 38:7)

Poetry-- Poetry-- "When the morning stars sang "When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?” (Job 38:7)joy?” (Job 38:7)ParablesParables-- "There was in a city a judge, which -- "There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man. And he feared not God, neither regarded man. And he said ‘because this widow troubles me, I will said ‘because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’" (Lk. 18:1-5)weary me.’" (Lk. 18:1-5)AllegoryAllegory--"Abraham had two sons, the one by a --"Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.... Which bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.... Which things are an allegory: for these are the two things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants." (Gal. 4:24)covenants." (Gal. 4:24)MetaphorsMetaphors--"And the tongue is a fire, a world of --"And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity...and sets on fire the course of nature." iniquity...and sets on fire the course of nature." (Js. 3:6)(Js. 3:6)Similes--Similes--"The kingdom of heaven is like to a "The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field." (Mt. 13:31)sowed in his field." (Mt. 13:31)

ParablesParables-- "There was in a city a judge, which -- "There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man. And he feared not God, neither regarded man. And he said ‘because this widow troubles me, I will said ‘because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’" (Lk. 18:1-5)weary me.’" (Lk. 18:1-5)AllegoryAllegory--"Abraham had two sons, the one by a --"Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.... Which bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.... Which things are an allegory: for these are the two things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants." (Gal. 4:24)covenants." (Gal. 4:24)MetaphorsMetaphors--"And the tongue is a fire, a world of --"And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity...and sets on fire the course of nature." iniquity...and sets on fire the course of nature." (Js. 3:6)(Js. 3:6)Similes--Similes--"The kingdom of heaven is like to a "The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field." (Mt. 13:31)sowed in his field." (Mt. 13:31)

SatireSatire --"Blind guides, who strain out a gnat --"Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel." (Mt. 19:24) and swallow a camel." (Mt. 19:24)

Figures of speechFigures of speech--"O God! Therefore the --"O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.” (Psa. 36:7)shadow of thy wings.” (Psa. 36:7)

AnthropomorphismAnthropomorphism--"God repented of the evil, --"God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not." (Jonah 3:10) But God does and he did it not." (Jonah 3:10) But God does not repent: “The strength of Israel will not lie not repent: “The strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.” (1 Sam. 15:29)repent.” (1 Sam. 15:29)

SatireSatire --"Blind guides, who strain out a gnat --"Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel." (Mt. 19:24) and swallow a camel." (Mt. 19:24)

Figures of speechFigures of speech--"O God! Therefore the --"O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.” (Psa. 36:7)shadow of thy wings.” (Psa. 36:7)

AnthropomorphismAnthropomorphism--"God repented of the evil, --"God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not." (Jonah 3:10) But God does and he did it not." (Jonah 3:10) But God does not repent: “The strength of Israel will not lie not repent: “The strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.” (1 Sam. 15:29)repent.” (1 Sam. 15:29)

HyperbolesHyperboles--"And there are also many other --"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written." (Jn. 21:25)books that should be written." (Jn. 21:25)

HyperbolesHyperboles--"And there are also many other --"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written." (Jn. 21:25)books that should be written." (Jn. 21:25)

Error # 10: Forgetting That Only Error # 10: Forgetting That Only the Original Text, Not Every the Original Text, Not Every Copy of Scripture, is Without Copy of Scripture, is Without Error Error

Error # 10: Forgetting That Only Error # 10: Forgetting That Only the Original Text, Not Every the Original Text, Not Every Copy of Scripture, is Without Copy of Scripture, is Without Error Error

Solomon had Solomon had 40,000 stalls.40,000 stalls.

(1 Kings 4:26)(1 Kings 4:26)

Solomon had Solomon had 4,0004,000 stalls.stalls.

(2 Chrn. 9:25)(2 Chrn. 9:25)

Ahaziah was Ahaziah was 42.42.

(2 Chrn. (2 Chrn. 22:2)22:2)

Ahaziah was Ahaziah was 22. 22.

(2 Kings 8:26 (2 Kings 8:26 KJV] KJV]

Note Several Important Note Several Important Things:Things:Note Several Important Note Several Important Things:Things:

1.1. These errors are found in These errors are found in copies, not in the originals.copies, not in the originals.

2.2. They are rare.They are rare.

3.3. They affect no doctrine of They affect no doctrine of Scripture.Scripture.

4.4. We usually know which one is We usually know which one is correct by the context. correct by the context.

1.1. These errors are found in These errors are found in copies, not in the originals.copies, not in the originals.

2.2. They are rare.They are rare.

3.3. They affect no doctrine of They affect no doctrine of Scripture.Scripture.

4.4. We usually know which one is We usually know which one is correct by the context. correct by the context.

What if you received this What if you received this message?message?

"Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS""Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"

Would you collect the money?Would you collect the money?

"Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS""Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"

Would you collect the money?Would you collect the money?

What if you received this What if you received this message?message?

"Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION "Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS"

"YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION "YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS"

"Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION "Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS"

"YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION "YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS"

And if you received this message, you And if you received this message, you would have no doubt!would have no doubt!

"Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION "Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS""YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION "YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS""YOU #AVE WON TEN MILLION "YOU #AVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS"

And if you received this message, you And if you received this message, you would have no doubt!would have no doubt!

"Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION "Y#U HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS""YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION "YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS""YOU #AVE WON TEN MILLION "YOU #AVE WON TEN MILLION DOLLARS"DOLLARS"

Note:Note:1.1. Even with mistakes, 100% of the Even with mistakes, 100% of the

message comes throughmessage comes through..2.2. The more errors, the more sure you The more errors, the more sure you

are of the message.are of the message.3.3. The Bible has many less errors in the The Bible has many less errors in the

copies than this message does.copies than this message does.

Note:Note:1.1. Even with mistakes, 100% of the Even with mistakes, 100% of the

message comes throughmessage comes through..2.2. The more errors, the more sure you The more errors, the more sure you

are of the message.are of the message.3.3. The Bible has many less errors in the The Bible has many less errors in the

copies than this message does.copies than this message does.

Error # 11 of the Critics: Error # 11 of the Critics: Failing to Understand the Failing to Understand the Context of the PassageContext of the Passage

Error # 11 of the Critics: Error # 11 of the Critics: Failing to Understand the Failing to Understand the Context of the PassageContext of the Passage

An old adage: "A text out of context is a pretext.”An old adage: "A text out of context is a pretext.”An old adage: "A text out of context is a pretext.”An old adage: "A text out of context is a pretext.”

For ExampleFor Example

The Bible saysThe Bible says "there is no God." "there is no God." (Psa. 14:1) (Psa. 14:1) The Context:The Context: The " The "foolfool" said " said this.this.

Other Examples of a text out Other Examples of a text out of context:of context:Other Examples of a text out Other Examples of a text out of context:of context:

The Bible says:The Bible says: "The mustard "The mustard seed...is the seed...is the smallest of all smallest of all seeds." (Mt. 13:31-32) seeds." (Mt. 13:31-32) But science says it is the But science says it is the orchid orchid seed. seed. The Context:The Context: However, the However, the mustard seed mustard seed was was the the smallest one "which a man smallest one "which a man took and took and sowed in his fieldsowed in his field" " (Mt. (Mt. 13:31), not the smallest 13:31), not the smallest in the world.in the world.

The Bible says:The Bible says: "The mustard "The mustard seed...is the seed...is the smallest of all smallest of all seeds." (Mt. 13:31-32) seeds." (Mt. 13:31-32) But science says it is the But science says it is the orchid orchid seed. seed. The Context:The Context: However, the However, the mustard seed mustard seed was was the the smallest one "which a man smallest one "which a man took and took and sowed in his fieldsowed in his field" " (Mt. (Mt. 13:31), not the smallest 13:31), not the smallest in the world.in the world.

A Text out of ContextA Text out of ContextThe Bible says:The Bible says: Paul's companions "heard" Paul's companions "heard"

the voice (Acts 9:7), the voice (Acts 9:7), but also that they did but also that they did notnot "hear" the "hear" the

voice (Acts 22:9). voice (Acts 22:9).

The Context:The Context: They heard They heard the sound,the sound, but did not hear (i.e., understand) but did not hear (i.e., understand) the the

meaningmeaning..Illustration:Illustration: “I can’t hear you. Please “I can’t hear you. Please

speak louder.” You heard the sound but speak louder.” You heard the sound but not the meaning.not the meaning.

For 800 More Errors of the For 800 More Errors of the Critics, See Critics, See The Big Book of The Big Book of

Bible Difficulties.Bible Difficulties.



Mark Twain said: Mark Twain said: It is not the part It is not the part of the Bible I don't understand of the Bible I don't understand that troubles me the most. It is that troubles me the most. It is the part of the Bible I do the part of the Bible I do understand that troubles me the understand that troubles me the mostmost..


Turning the Logic Right Side Up:Turning the Logic Right Side Up:We We should not criticize the Bible;should not criticize the Bible;We should let the Bible criticizeWe should let the Bible criticize us! us!

"For "For the word of God isthe word of God is alive, and alive, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword...and is sword...and is a discerner (Lt. critic) of a discerner (Lt. critic) of the thoughts and intents of the heartthe thoughts and intents of the heart." ." (Heb. 4:12)(Heb. 4:12)



Other Alleged Bible Contradictions

Problem: Genesis says the sun was not made until the fourth day (Gen. 1:14-19). Yet there was “evening and morning [light]” from the first day (1:2-5) on.

Answer: First, there was light from the first day when God said, “Let there be light” (1:3) and “morning.” Second, there was light from the first day, but the light holders (sun, moon, and stars) did not become visible until the fourth day (just as we can see that it is light on a foggy day but can not see the sun).


Problem: Genesis 1 and 2 give two contradictory creation accounts.

Answer: First, they are not contradictory but complementary. Genesis one give the outline and chronological order, showing the creation of animals. Genesis 2 give a more topic and detailed account leading up to the naming of the animals. Second, in Genesis 1 the animals are created before man. But in Genesis 2 they are named after man is created. It does not say they were created after man was. It simply says Adam named the animals which God had already created (Gen 2:19).


Problem: Genesis 4:16-17 says Cain had a wife and children. But there was no one else to marry, since there was only Adam, Eve, and Cain left (after he killed Abel).

Answer: First, there Adam and Eve and “other sons and daughters” (Gen. 5:4). Second, Adam lived for 800 years after he started to have children. You can have a lot of children in 800 years! So, there were many other women to marry. Third, it was not yet forbidden to marry one’s sister or cousin—a law that came much later because of possible genetic deformities.


Problem: Biblical authors held the false view of ancient times that the atmosphere was not basically empty but was a solid dome. Job says God “spread out the skies” like “a cast metal mirror” (37:18). Indeed, the Hebrew word for “firmament” (raqia) (Gen. 1:16) is defined as a solid object.

Answer: First, the root meaning (etymology) of raqia was solid object, but meaning is not determined by origin but by usage (e. g, “board” was originally a solid plank but now can refer to a non-physical unity among a group of persons—a board of Elders.

Second, raqia means to beat out or spread out, as metal is thinned out when beaten. It is correctly rendered “expanse” (cf. Ex. 39:3; Is. 40:19 NIV, NASB). Second, Isaiah 42:22 says God “stretched out the heavens like a curtain” which fits with the idea of an expanding universe. Third, the Bible speaks of rain as falling through the sky (Job. 36:27-28) which is not possible through a solid object. Fourth, birds are said to fly “above” the earth across the face of firmament (Gen. 1:20) which is not possible if the sky is solid. Finally, Job does not say the skies are a metal mirror, but only like one in their strength (endurance). This should not be taken any more literally than saying God is like a strong tower (Prov. 18:12).


Problem: Leviticus 11:5-6 says the rabbit chews the cud, when science has proven it does not.

Answer: First, rabbits do not chew the cud in the modern technical sense (of ruminants which usually have four stomachs), but they do have a chewing action that looks similar. They practiced refection (chewing their droppings). Even the famous scientist Linnaeus originally classed rabbits as ruminants because of their similar chewing motion.


Second, the Bible does not use modern technical categories but those useful for an average observer who could see by this chewing motion that it was an unclean animal. The same is true of “sun rise” and “sun set.”

•The Essentials of the Faith •Knowing the True God•Answering Other World Views•Can the Bible be Trusted?•Understanding the Bible•The Pillars of the Faith

•The Essentials of the Faith •Knowing the True God•Answering Other World Views•Can the Bible be Trusted?•Understanding the Bible•The Pillars of the Faith

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66 “ESSENTIAL” TOPICS!“ESSENTIAL” TOPICS!66 “ESSENTIAL” TOPICS!“ESSENTIAL” TOPICS!

No one has ever No one has ever demonstrated an error in the demonstrated an error in the Bible, but--Bible, but--We have seen that there are We have seen that there are many errors in the critics.many errors in the critics.

No one has ever No one has ever demonstrated an error in the demonstrated an error in the Bible, but--Bible, but--We have seen that there are We have seen that there are many errors in the critics.many errors in the critics.

the bible are there any errors? copyright by norman l. geisler 2009

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