the deity of christ copyright by norman geisler 2006 copyright by norman geisler 2006

The Deity of ChristThe Deity of Christ

Copyright by Norman Geisler 2006

Copyright by Norman Geisler 2006

Twelve Points that Show Christianity is TrueTwelve Points that Show Christianity is True1. Truth about reality is knowable.2. The opposite of true is false.3. It is true that the theistic God exists.4. If God exists then miracles are possible.5. Miracles can be used to confirm a message from God.6. The New Testament is historically reliable.7. The New Testament says Jesus claimed to be God.8. Jesus’ claim to be God was miraculously confirmed by: a. His fulfillment of many prophecies about Himself; b. His sinless and miraculous life; c. His prediction and accomplishment of His resurrection9. Therefore, Jesus is God.10. Whatever Jesus (who is God) teaches is true.11. Jesus taught that the Bible is the Word of God.12. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God (and

anything opposed to it is false).

1. Truth about reality is knowable.2. The opposite of true is false.3. It is true that the theistic God exists.4. If God exists then miracles are possible.5. Miracles can be used to confirm a message from God.6. The New Testament is historically reliable.7. The New Testament says Jesus claimed to be God.8. Jesus’ claim to be God was miraculously confirmed by: a. His fulfillment of many prophecies about Himself; b. His sinless and miraculous life; c. His prediction and accomplishment of His resurrection9. Therefore, Jesus is God.10. Whatever Jesus (who is God) teaches is true.11. Jesus taught that the Bible is the Word of God.12. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God (and

anything opposed to it is false).

No God at all

The Three Major Religious World Views

God is allGod made all

ReligiousReligious

HumanismHumanism

Zen Zen BuddhismBuddhism

HinduismHinduism

New AgeNew Age

JudaismJudaism

ChristianityChristianity

IslamIslam

Three Great Arguments for the Existence of GodThree Great Arguments for the Existence of God

1. Cosmological Argument

2. Teleological Argument

3. Moral Argument

1. Cosmological Argument

2. Teleological Argument

3. Moral Argument

– Cosmological • Has always existed outside the universe• is infinitely powerful

– Teleological• is infinitely intelligent• has purpose

– Moral• is absolutely morally perfect • Is personal

– Cosmological • Has always existed outside the universe• is infinitely powerful

– Teleological• is infinitely intelligent• has purpose

– Moral• is absolutely morally perfect • Is personal

This is the God of biblical Christianity (identified without reference to the Bible)

From these 3 arguments we know that From these 3 arguments we know that

No God at all

The Three Major Religious World Views

God is allGod made all

The Possibilities in a Theistic Universe

Could be true:1. Judaism

2. Christianity

3. Islam

Could be true:1. Judaism

2. Christianity

3. Islam

Cannot be true:1. Hinduism

2. Buddhism

3. New Age

4. Secular Humanism

5. Mormonism

6. Polytheism

7. Wicca

8. Confucianism

9. Taoism

Cannot be true:1. Hinduism

2. Buddhism

3. New Age

4. Secular Humanism

5. Mormonism

6. Polytheism

7. Wicca

8. Confucianism

9. Taoism

The Three Major Theistic ReligionsThe Three Major Theistic Religions

Which is true:

1. Judaism?

2. Christianity?

3. Islam?

Which is true:

1. Judaism?

2. Christianity?

3. Islam?

God made all

Twelve Points that Show Christianity is True


1. Truth about reality is knowable.

2. The opposite of true is false.

3. It is true that the theistic God exists.

4. If God exists then miracles are possible.





Did David Hume Prove Miracles are Not Credible?

Did David Hume Prove Miracles are Not Credible?

David Hume’s Objection:

1. 1. Natural Law is by definition a description of a regular occurrence.

2. 2. A miracle is by definition a rare occurrence.

3. 3. The evidence for the regular is always greater than that for the rare.

4. 4. A wise person always bases his belief on the greater evidence.

5. 5. Therefore, a wise person should never believe in miracles.

David Hume’s Objection:

1. 1. Natural Law is by definition a description of a regular occurrence.

2. 2. A miracle is by definition a rare occurrence.

3. 3. The evidence for the regular is always greater than that for the rare.

4. 4. A wise person always bases his belief on the greater evidence.

5. 5. Therefore, a wise person should never believe in miracles.

The Answer to Hume’s Objection

The Answer to Hume’s Objection

The evidence for regular events is not always greater than that for the rare.

Examples from Hume’s own world view:

1. 1. The Big Bang has not occurred regularly.

2. The origin of life on earth does not occur regularly.

3. Macro-evolution has not been repeatable.

4. The entire history of the earth is unrepeatable.

The evidence for regular events is not always greater than that for the rare.

Examples from Hume’s own world view:

1. 1. The Big Bang has not occurred regularly.

2. The origin of life on earth does not occur regularly.

3. Macro-evolution has not been repeatable.

4. The entire history of the earth is unrepeatable.







5. Miracles can be used to confirm a message from God (i.e., as an act of God to confirm a word from God).





5. Miracles can be used to confirm a message from God (i.e., as an act of God to confirm a word from God).

Jesus claimed to be God!

Jesus Asserted He was God By Claiming:

Jesus Asserted He was God By Claiming:

1. 1. To be the great “I Am.”2. 2. To be equal with God.3. 3. To be Jehovah (Yahweh).4. 4. To be honored as God5. 5. To be the Messiah-God.6. 6. To be worthy of worship.7. 7 To be equal in authority with God.8. 8. To be the object of prayer like God.

1. 1. To be the great “I Am.”2. 2. To be equal with God.3. 3. To be Jehovah (Yahweh).4. 4. To be honored as God5. 5. To be the Messiah-God.6. 6. To be worthy of worship.7. 7 To be equal in authority with God.8. 8. To be the object of prayer like God.

1. Jesus claimed to be the 1. Jesus claimed to be the "I AM""I AM"

• God's Name is "I AM" (Ex. God's Name is "I AM" (Ex. 3:14).3:14).

• Jesus said: "Before Abraham Jesus said: "Before Abraham was, I AM" (Jn. 8:58).was, I AM" (Jn. 8:58).

• God's Name is "I AM" (Ex. God's Name is "I AM" (Ex. 3:14).3:14).

• Jesus said: "Before Abraham Jesus said: "Before Abraham was, I AM" (Jn. 8:58).was, I AM" (Jn. 8:58).

2. Jesus Claimed to be Equal 2. Jesus Claimed to be Equal with Godwith God

• Jesus said, "Son, your sins are Jesus said, "Son, your sins are forgiven" (Mk. 2:5f.). forgiven" (Mk. 2:5f.).

• The scribes replied: "Who can The scribes replied: "Who can forgive sins but God alone?" forgive sins but God alone?" (2:7).(2:7).

• Jesus said, "Son, your sins are Jesus said, "Son, your sins are forgiven" (Mk. 2:5f.). forgiven" (Mk. 2:5f.).

• The scribes replied: "Who can The scribes replied: "Who can forgive sins but God alone?" forgive sins but God alone?" (2:7).(2:7).

3. Jesus Claimed to be Yahweh 3. Jesus Claimed to be Yahweh

(LORD)(LORD)

NTJn. 10:11Rev. 1:17

Mt. 25:31f.Mt. 25:1Jn. 8:12Jn. 4:42Jn. 17:5 Jn.5:21

NTJn. 10:11Rev. 1:17

Mt. 25:31f.Mt. 25:1Jn. 8:12Jn. 4:42Jn. 17:5 Jn.5:21

AttributeShepherd

First & LastJudge

BridegroomLightSavior

God's GloryGiver of Life

AttributeShepherd

First & LastJudge

BridegroomLightSavior

God's GloryGiver of Life

OTPsa. 23:1Isa. 44:6 Joel 3:12Isa. 62:5Psa. 27:1Isa. 43:11Isa. 42:8

1Sam. 2:6

OTPsa. 23:1Isa. 44:6 Joel 3:12Isa. 62:5Psa. 27:1Isa. 43:11Isa. 42:8

1Sam. 2:6

4. Jesus claimed He 4. Jesus claimed He should be honored as should be honored as

God. God.

He said that all men should, He said that all men should, "honor the Son just as they "honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent honor the Father, who sent him" (Jn. 5:23). him" (Jn. 5:23).

He said that all men should, He said that all men should, "honor the Son just as they "honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent honor the Father, who sent him" (Jn. 5:23). him" (Jn. 5:23).

5. Jesus Claimed to be 5. Jesus Claimed to be Messiah-GodMessiah-God

• 1. OT taught that the Messiah 1. OT taught that the Messiah was God was God (Psa. 45:6; 110:1; (Psa. 45:6; 110:1; Isa. 9:6; Dan. 7:9). Isa. 9:6; Dan. 7:9).




• 2. Jesus claimed to be the 2. Jesus claimed to be the Messiah Messiah (Mk. 14:61-64; (Mk. 14:61-64; Jn. 4:25-26).Jn. 4:25-26).


• 2. Jesus claimed to be the 2. Jesus claimed to be the Messiah Messiah (Mk. 14:61-64; (Mk. 14:61-64; Jn. 4:25-26).Jn. 4:25-26).


1. OT taught that the Messiah was God 1. OT taught that the Messiah was God (Psa. 45:6; 110:1; Isa. 9:6; (Psa. 45:6; 110:1; Isa. 9:6;

Dan. 7:9). Dan. 7:9).

• 2. Jesus claimed to be the Messiah 2. Jesus claimed to be the Messiah (Mk. 14:61-64; Jn. 4:25-26).(Mk. 14:61-64; Jn. 4:25-26).

• 3. Hence, Jesus claimed to be the 3. Hence, Jesus claimed to be the Messiah-God.Messiah-God.

1. OT taught that the Messiah was God 1. OT taught that the Messiah was God (Psa. 45:6; 110:1; Isa. 9:6; (Psa. 45:6; 110:1; Isa. 9:6;

Dan. 7:9). Dan. 7:9).

• 2. Jesus claimed to be the Messiah 2. Jesus claimed to be the Messiah (Mk. 14:61-64; Jn. 4:25-26).(Mk. 14:61-64; Jn. 4:25-26).

• 3. Hence, Jesus claimed to be the 3. Hence, Jesus claimed to be the Messiah-God.Messiah-God.

6. Jesus Claimed to be 6. Jesus Claimed to be God by Accepting God by Accepting

WorshipWorship

• 1. Bible forbids worshiping 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but anyone but God (Ex. 20:1-4; God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9).Deut. 5:6-9).

• 1. Bible forbids worshiping 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but anyone but God (Ex. 20:1-4; God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9).Deut. 5:6-9).


WorshipWorship

• 1. Bible forbids worshiping 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but anyone but God (Ex. 20:1-4; God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9). Deut. 5:6-9).

• 2. Humans refused worship (Acts 2. Humans refused worship (Acts 14:15). 14:15).




WorshipWorship



• 3. Angels also refused worship 3. Angels also refused worship (Rev. (Rev. 22:8-9). 22:8-9).



• 3. Angels also refused worship 3. Angels also refused worship (Rev. (Rev. 22:8-9). 22:8-9).


WorshipWorship

• 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but but God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9). God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9).


• 3. Angels also refused worship (Rev. 3. Angels also refused worship (Rev. 22:8-9). 22:8-9).

• 4. But Jesus accepted worship on 4. But Jesus accepted worship on numerous occasions.numerous occasions.

• 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but but God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9). God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9).





WorshipWorship• 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but

God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9). God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9). • 2. Humans refused worship (Acts 2. Humans refused worship (Acts

14:15). 14:15). • 3. Angels also refused worship (Rev. 3. Angels also refused worship (Rev.

22:8-9). 22:8-9). • 4. But Jesus accepted worship on 4. But Jesus accepted worship on

numerous occasions.numerous occasions.• 5. Therefore, Jesus claimed to be God.5. Therefore, Jesus claimed to be God.

• 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but 1. Bible forbids worshiping anyone but God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9). God (Ex. 20:1-4; Deut. 5:6-9).




• 5. Therefore, Jesus claimed to be God.5. Therefore, Jesus claimed to be God.

Jesus accepted worship Jesus accepted worship from: from:

1. The mother of James and John (Mt. 20:20); 1. The mother of James and John (Mt. 20:20);

2. The Gerasene demoniac (Mk. 5:6);2. The Gerasene demoniac (Mk. 5:6);

3. A blind man (Jn. 9:38);3. A blind man (Jn. 9:38);

4. Doubting Thomas (Jn. 20:28);4. Doubting Thomas (Jn. 20:28);

5. The women at the tomb (Mt. 28:9);5. The women at the tomb (Mt. 28:9);

6. A Canaanite women (Mt. 15:25) 6. A Canaanite women (Mt. 15:25)

7. His disciples [Mt. 14:33];7. His disciples [Mt. 14:33];

8. A healed leper (Mt. 8:2); 8. A healed leper (Mt. 8:2);

9. A rich young ruler [Mt. 9:18).9. A rich young ruler [Mt. 9:18).

1. The mother of James and John (Mt. 20:20); 1. The mother of James and John (Mt. 20:20);

2. The Gerasene demoniac (Mk. 5:6);2. The Gerasene demoniac (Mk. 5:6);

3. A blind man (Jn. 9:38);3. A blind man (Jn. 9:38);

4. Doubting Thomas (Jn. 20:28);4. Doubting Thomas (Jn. 20:28);

5. The women at the tomb (Mt. 28:9);5. The women at the tomb (Mt. 28:9);

6. A Canaanite women (Mt. 15:25) 6. A Canaanite women (Mt. 15:25)

7. His disciples [Mt. 14:33];7. His disciples [Mt. 14:33];

8. A healed leper (Mt. 8:2); 8. A healed leper (Mt. 8:2);

9. A rich young ruler [Mt. 9:18).9. A rich young ruler [Mt. 9:18).

An Important Note:An Important Note:

• 1. Jesus never rebuked 1. Jesus never rebuked anyone anyone who who worshiped Him. worshiped Him.

• 1. Jesus never rebuked 1. Jesus never rebuked anyone anyone who who worshiped Him. worshiped Him.

An Important Note:An Important Note:

• 1. Jesus never rebuked 1. Jesus never rebuked anyone anyone who worshiped who worshiped Him. Him.

• 2. He even commended 2. He even commended some for some for doing it (Jn. doing it (Jn. 20:29 cf. Mt. 16:17) 20:29 cf. Mt. 16:17)

• 1. Jesus never rebuked 1. Jesus never rebuked anyone anyone who worshiped who worshiped Him. Him.

• 2. He even commended 2. He even commended some for some for doing it (Jn. doing it (Jn. 20:29 cf. Mt. 16:17) 20:29 cf. Mt. 16:17)

7. Jesus Claimed to Have Equal 7. Jesus Claimed to Have Equal Authority with God by Putting Authority with God by Putting His words on a par with God's:His words on a par with God's:

• "You have heard that it was said to the "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago.... But I tell you..." (Mt. 5:21, people long ago.... But I tell you..." (Mt. 5:21, 22). 22).

• "All authority in heaven and on earth has "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." (Mt. 28:18-19). disciples of all nations..." (Mt. 28:18-19).

• "A new commandment I give you: Love one "A new commandment I give you: Love one another" (Jn. 13:34). another" (Jn. 13:34).

• "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away" (Mt. 24:35). words will never pass away" (Mt. 24:35).

• Jesus said, "that very word which I spoke will Jesus said, "that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day" (Jn. 12:48). condemn him at the last day" (Jn. 12:48).

• "You have heard that it was said to the "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago.... But I tell you..." (Mt. 5:21, people long ago.... But I tell you..." (Mt. 5:21, 22). 22).

• "All authority in heaven and on earth has "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." (Mt. 28:18-19). disciples of all nations..." (Mt. 28:18-19).

• "A new commandment I give you: Love one "A new commandment I give you: Love one another" (Jn. 13:34). another" (Jn. 13:34).

• "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away" (Mt. 24:35). words will never pass away" (Mt. 24:35).

• Jesus said, "that very word which I spoke will Jesus said, "that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day" (Jn. 12:48). condemn him at the last day" (Jn. 12:48).

8. Jesus Claimed to be 8. Jesus Claimed to be God by Requesting God by Requesting Prayer in His Name.Prayer in His Name.

• ““Whatever You ask [the Whatever You ask [the Father] in my name, that I will Father] in my name, that I will do" (Jn. 14:13). do" (Jn. 14:13).

• Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59).receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59).

• ““Whatever You ask [the Whatever You ask [the Father] in my name, that I will Father] in my name, that I will do" (Jn. 14:13). do" (Jn. 14:13).

• Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59).receive my spirit" (Acts 7:59).

Jesus: Just a Great Moral Teacher?

I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish things that people often say about Him: 'I'm ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don't accept His claim to be God.' That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would rather be a lunatic - on a level with the man who says he is a poached egg - Or else he would be the Devil of Hell.

(C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, 55-56).

I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish things that people often say about Him: 'I'm ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don't accept His claim to be God.' That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would rather be a lunatic - on a level with the man who says he is a poached egg - Or else he would be the Devil of Hell.

(C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, 55-56).

Objections to the Deity of Christ

1. Jn. 14:28: “The Father is greater than I”

2. Mt. 19:17 “No one is good but One, that is, God.”

3. Mt. 24:36: “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.”

4. Jn. 17:3: Jesus prayed to the Father, saying, “this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”

5. Jn. 10:34: Jesus said, “You are gods” [in a derivative sense], not in an absolute sense.

1. Jn. 14:28: “The Father is greater than I”

2. Mt. 19:17 “No one is good but One, that is, God.”

3. Mt. 24:36: “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.”

4. Jn. 17:3: Jesus prayed to the Father, saying, “this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”

5. Jn. 10:34: Jesus said, “You are gods” [in a derivative sense], not in an absolute sense.

Response to Objections1. The Father is greater as God than Jesus is as man.

Also, the Father is greater in office but not in nature.

2. Jesus did not deny He was God, He simply ask the man if he realized what he was saying.

3. Jesus did not know the time of His Second Coming as man, but He did know it as God.

4. He said the Father is the only true God, but he did not say that only the Father is God (cf. Gen. 7:23; Jn. 8:9).

5. Jesus was God in the absolute sense (Jn. 1:1,2; 8:58; Jn. 20:28; Rom. 9:5; Heb. 1:8).

Father

Holy

Spirit

SonHuma

nNatur

e

DivineNatur

e

Father

Who³Who²

Human Nature

(Divine Nature)

Who¹

What²

What¹

(Son) (Holy Spirit)

Objections to the Deity of ChristObjections to the Deity of Christ

To accomplish his mission of sacrificial atonement.

To be an example and glorify the Father.

To allow people to draw their own conclusions (as he did with parables).

To accomplish his mission of sacrificial atonement.

To be an example and glorify the Father.

To allow people to draw their own conclusions (as he did with parables).

4. Why wasn’t Jesus more overt in his claim to be God?

4. Why wasn’t Jesus more overt in his claim to be God?

a. His fulfillment of many prophecies about Himself;

b. His sinless and miraculous life;

c. His prediction and accomplishment of His resurrection




8. Jesus’ claim to be God was miraculously confirmed by:


Human Race Woman, Gen 3:15

Ethnic Group Abraham, Gen 12:1

Tribe Judah, Gen 49:10

Dynasty David, 2 Sam 7:12

How Virgin, Isa 7:14

Where Bethlehem, Mic 5:2

When 33 A.D., Dan 9:24

Jesus proved His claim to be God!Jesus proved His claim to be God!

Evidence Jesus Rose

The Order of the Twelve Appearances of ChristPersons Saw Heard Touched Other

Evidence


Evidence

1. Mary X X X Empty tomb(Jn. 20:10-18)

2. Mary & Women X X X Empty tomb(Mt. 28:1-10)

3. Peter X X Empty tomb/clothes(1Cor. 15:5)

4. Two Disciples X X Ate with Him(Lk. 24:13-35)

5. Ten Apostles X X X** Saw wounds, ate food(Lk. 24:36-49; Jn. 20:19-23)

6. Eleven Apostles X X X** Saw wounds(Jn. 20:24-31)

**Offered Himself to be touched

1. Mary X X X Empty tomb(Jn. 20:10-18)

2. Mary & Women X X X Empty tomb(Mt. 28:1-10)

3. Peter X X Empty tomb/clothes(1Cor. 15:5)

4. Two Disciples X X Ate with Him(Lk. 24:13-35)

5. Ten Apostles X X X** Saw wounds, ate food(Lk. 24:36-49; Jn. 20:19-23)

6. Eleven Apostles X X X** Saw wounds(Jn. 20:24-31)

**Offered Himself to be touched


Evidence


Evidence

7. Seven Apostles X X Ate food(Jn. 21)

8. All Apostles X X (Mt. 28:16-20;Mk 16:14-18)

9. 500 Brethren X X* (1Cor. 15:6)

10. James X X* (1Cor. 15:7)

11. All Apostles X X Ate with Him(Acts 1:4-8)

12. Paul X X (Acts 9:1-9;1Cor. 15:8)

*Implied

7. Seven Apostles X X Ate food(Jn. 21)

8. All Apostles X X (Mt. 28:16-20;Mk 16:14-18)

9. 500 Brethren X X* (1Cor. 15:6)

10. James X X* (1Cor. 15:7)

11. All Apostles X X Ate with Him(Acts 1:4-8)

12. Paul X X (Acts 9:1-9;1Cor. 15:8)

*Implied

Alternative Theories to the ResurrectionAlternative Theories to the Resurrection

1. The Swoon Theory2. Hallucinations3. The Disciples stole the body4. Witnesses went to the wrong tomb5. Judas was substituted for Jesus6. It was a case of mistaken identity

1. The Swoon Theory2. Hallucinations3. The Disciples stole the body4. Witnesses went to the wrong tomb5. Judas was substituted for Jesus6. It was a case of mistaken identity

JAMA March 21,1986, p. 1463JAMA March 21,1986, p. 1463

“Clearly, the weight of historical and medical evidence indicates that Jesus was dead before the wound to his side was inflicted and supports the traditional view that the spear, thrust between his right rib, probably perforated not only the right lung but also the pericardium and heart and thereby ensured his death. Accordingly, interpretations based on the assumption that Jesus did not die on the cross appear to be at odds with modern medical knowledge."





9. Therefore, Jesus is God.









10. Whatever Jesus (who is God) teaches is true.







11. Jesus taught that the Bible is the Word of God.






Seven Things Jesus Taught About the Bible

Seven Things Jesus Taught About the Bible

1. It is divinely authoritative (Mt. 4:4, 7, 10).

2. It is imperishable (Mt. 5:17-18).

3. It is infallible (Jn. 10:35).

4. It is inerrant (without error) (Mt. 22:29).

5. It is historically reliable (Mt. 12:40; Mt. 24:37-38).

6. It is scientifically accurate (Mt. 19:4-5).

7. It has ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 6).

1. It is divinely authoritative (Mt. 4:4, 7, 10).

2. It is imperishable (Mt. 5:17-18).

3. It is infallible (Jn. 10:35).

4. It is inerrant (without error) (Mt. 22:29).

5. It is historically reliable (Mt. 12:40; Mt. 24:37-38).

6. It is scientifically accurate (Mt. 19:4-5).

7. It has ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 6).

Christ vs. the Critics

Christ Affirmed Critics Deny

Daniel was a prophet God created Adam and Eve

Jonah was swallowed by a great fish World was drowned in a flood

One prophet wrote Isaiah

Christ Affirmed Critics Deny

Daniel was a prophet God created Adam and Eve

Jonah was swallowed by a great fish World was drowned in a flood

One prophet wrote Isaiah

1. Creation of the universe (Gen. 1) John 1:3; Col. 1:162. Creation of Adam and Eve (Gen. 1-2) 1 Tim. 2:13-143. Marriage of Adam and Eve (Gen. 1-2) 1 Tim. 2:134. Temptation of the woman (Gen. 3) 1 Tim. 2:145. Disobedience and sin of Adam (Gen. 3) Rom. 5:12; 1 Cor. 15:226. Sacrifices of Abel and Cain (Gen. 4) Heb. 11:47. Murder of Abel by Cain (Gen. 4) 1 John 3:128. Birth of Seth (Gen. 4) Luke 3:389. Translation of Enoch (Gen. 5) Heb. 11:510. Marriage before the flood (Gen. 6) Luke 17:2711. The flood and destruction of man (Gen. 7) Matt. 24:3912. Preservation of Noah and his family (Gen. 8-9) 2 Peter 2:513. Genealogy of Shem (Gen. 10) Luke 3:35-3614. Birth of Abraham (Gen. 11) Luke 3:3415. Call of Abraham (Gen. 12-13) Heb. 11:816. Tithes to Melchizedek (Gen. 14) Heb. 7:1-3

1. Creation of the universe (Gen. 1) John 1:3; Col. 1:162. Creation of Adam and Eve (Gen. 1-2) 1 Tim. 2:13-143. Marriage of Adam and Eve (Gen. 1-2) 1 Tim. 2:134. Temptation of the woman (Gen. 3) 1 Tim. 2:145. Disobedience and sin of Adam (Gen. 3) Rom. 5:12; 1 Cor. 15:226. Sacrifices of Abel and Cain (Gen. 4) Heb. 11:47. Murder of Abel by Cain (Gen. 4) 1 John 3:128. Birth of Seth (Gen. 4) Luke 3:389. Translation of Enoch (Gen. 5) Heb. 11:510. Marriage before the flood (Gen. 6) Luke 17:2711. The flood and destruction of man (Gen. 7) Matt. 24:3912. Preservation of Noah and his family (Gen. 8-9) 2 Peter 2:513. Genealogy of Shem (Gen. 10) Luke 3:35-3614. Birth of Abraham (Gen. 11) Luke 3:3415. Call of Abraham (Gen. 12-13) Heb. 11:816. Tithes to Melchizedek (Gen. 14) Heb. 7:1-3

What the Critics Deny, Jesus and the Apostles AffirmedWhat the Critics Deny, Jesus and the Apostles Affirmed

17. Justification of Abraham (Gen. 15) Rom. 4:318. Ishmael (Gen. 16) Gal. 4:21-2419. Promise of Isaac (Gen. 17) Heb. 11:1820. Lot and Sodom (Gen. 18-19) Luke 17:2921. Birth of Isaac (Gen. 21) Acts 7:9-1022. Offering of Isaac (Gen. 22) Heb. 11:1723. The burning bush (Ex. 3:6) Luke 20:3224. Exodus through the Red Sea (Ex. 14:22) 1 Cor. 10:1-225. Provision of water and manna (Ex. 16:4; 17:6) 1 Cor. 10:3-526. Lifting up serpent in wilderness (Num. 21:9) John 3:1427. Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:22-25) Heb. 11:3028. Miracles of Elijah (1 Kings 17:1; 18:1) Jas. 5:1729. Jonah in the great fish (Jonah 2) Matt. 12:4030. Three Hebrew youths in furnace (Dan. 3) Heb. 11:3431. Daniel in lion’s den (Dan. 6) Heb. 11:3332. Slaying of Zechariah (2 Chron. 24:20-22) Matt. 23:35

17. Justification of Abraham (Gen. 15) Rom. 4:318. Ishmael (Gen. 16) Gal. 4:21-2419. Promise of Isaac (Gen. 17) Heb. 11:1820. Lot and Sodom (Gen. 18-19) Luke 17:2921. Birth of Isaac (Gen. 21) Acts 7:9-1022. Offering of Isaac (Gen. 22) Heb. 11:1723. The burning bush (Ex. 3:6) Luke 20:3224. Exodus through the Red Sea (Ex. 14:22) 1 Cor. 10:1-225. Provision of water and manna (Ex. 16:4; 17:6) 1 Cor. 10:3-526. Lifting up serpent in wilderness (Num. 21:9) John 3:1427. Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:22-25) Heb. 11:3028. Miracles of Elijah (1 Kings 17:1; 18:1) Jas. 5:1729. Jonah in the great fish (Jonah 2) Matt. 12:4030. Three Hebrew youths in furnace (Dan. 3) Heb. 11:3431. Daniel in lion’s den (Dan. 6) Heb. 11:3332. Slaying of Zechariah (2 Chron. 24:20-22) Matt. 23:35

What the Critics Deny, Jesus and the Apostles AffirmedWhat the Critics Deny, Jesus and the Apostles Affirmed

The Bible which is

The Word of

God Cannot Err

The Bible which is

The Word of

God Cannot Err

Jesus did not accommodate to false teachings


1. Rebuked those who accepted false teachings (Mt. 15:1-6).





2. Set his word against false views of the OT (Mt. 5:21-43).

3. Rebuked Nicodemus (Jn. 3:10).

4. Said the Sadducees were mistaken (Mt. 22:29).

5. Denounced the Pharisees (Mt. 23:16-34).

6. Cleansed the Temple (Jn. 2:15-16).

7. Enemies recognized Jesus did not compromise (Mt. 22:16).

2. Set his word against false views of the OT (Mt. 5:21-43).

3. Rebuked Nicodemus (Jn. 3:10).

4. Said the Sadducees were mistaken (Mt. 22:29).

5. Denounced the Pharisees (Mt. 23:16-34).

6. Cleansed the Temple (Jn. 2:15-16).

7. Enemies recognized Jesus did not compromise (Mt. 22:16).

Jesus Affirmed the Old Testament Jesus Affirmed the Old Testament

1. Beginning at Moses, he expounded to them all the scriptures the things concerning himself (Lk. 24:17)

2. The Scriptures . . . testify of Me. (Jn. 5:39)

3. From . . . Abel to Zechariah . . . . (Mt. 23:35)

4. Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets . . . (Mt. 5:17-18)

5. “It is Written . . . .” The authority of the OT is cited that way 92 times in the NT

1. Beginning at Moses, he expounded to them all the scriptures the things concerning himself (Lk. 24:17)

2. The Scriptures . . . testify of Me. (Jn. 5:39)

3. From . . . Abel to Zechariah . . . . (Mt. 23:35)

4. Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets . . . (Mt. 5:17-18)

5. “It is Written . . . .” The authority of the OT is cited that way 92 times in the NT

Jesus Promised the New Testament Jesus Promised the New Testament

Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would teach the apostles “all things” and lead them into “all truth”

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you (Jn. 14:26).

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come (Jn. 16:13).

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you (Jn. 14:26).

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come (Jn. 16:13).




12. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God (and anything opposed to it is false).




12. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God (and anything opposed to it is false).



Twelve Points that Show Christianity is TrueTwelve Points that Show Christianity is True1. Truth about reality is knowable.2. The opposite of true is false.3. It is true that the theistic God exists.4. If God exists then miracles are possible.5. Miracles can be used to confirm a message from God.6. The New Testament is historically reliable.7. The New Testament says Jesus claimed to be God.8. Jesus’ claim to be God was miraculously confirmed by: a. His fulfillment of many prophecies about Himself; b. His sinless and miraculous life; c. His prediction and accomplishment of His

resurrection9. Therefore, Jesus is God.10. Whatever Jesus (who is God) teaches is true.11. Jesus taught that the Bible is the Word of God.12. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God

(and anything opposed to it is false).

1. Truth about reality is knowable.2. The opposite of true is false.3. It is true that the theistic God exists.4. If God exists then miracles are possible.5. Miracles can be used to confirm a message from God.6. The New Testament is historically reliable.7. The New Testament says Jesus claimed to be God.8. Jesus’ claim to be God was miraculously confirmed by: a. His fulfillment of many prophecies about Himself; b. His sinless and miraculous life; c. His prediction and accomplishment of His

resurrection9. Therefore, Jesus is God.10. Whatever Jesus (who is God) teaches is true.11. Jesus taught that the Bible is the Word of God.12. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God

(and anything opposed to it is false).

The Testimony of The Testimony of Supernatural Supernatural

ConfirmationsConfirmations

• The Bible contains numerous The Bible contains numerous miracles (Moses, Elijah-Elisha, miracles (Moses, Elijah-Elisha, Jesus-Apostles). Jesus-Apostles).




• A miracle is a divine A miracle is a divine confirmation (Ex. 4:1-8; 1Kgs confirmation (Ex. 4:1-8; 1Kgs 18:36-39; Acts 2:22; Heb. 2:3-18:36-39; Acts 2:22; Heb. 2:3-4; 2Cor. 12:12).4; 2Cor. 12:12).




• A miracle is a divine confirmation A miracle is a divine confirmation (Ex. 4:1-8; 1Kgs 18:36-39; Acts (Ex. 4:1-8; 1Kgs 18:36-39; Acts 2:22; Heb. 2:3-4; 2Cor. 12:12).2:22; Heb. 2:3-4; 2Cor. 12:12).

• No other book in the world has No other book in the world has this (cf. Quran: Suras 3:183; this (cf. Quran: Suras 3:183; 17:102).17:102).

the deity of christ copyright by norman geisler 2006 copyright by norman geisler 2006

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