the divine inspiration of scripture current challenges to inerrancy copyright by norman geisler 2009

The Divine Inspiration of The Divine Inspiration of ScriptureScripture Current Challenges to Current Challenges to InerrancyInerrancy

The Divine Inspiration of The Divine Inspiration of ScriptureScripture Current Challenges to Current Challenges to InerrancyInerrancy

Copyright by Norman Geisler 2009Copyright by Norman Geisler 2009Copyright by Norman Geisler 2009Copyright by Norman Geisler 2009

Outline:I. Challenges to InerrancyI. Challenges to Inerrancy

A. From WithoutA. From Without

B. From WithinB. From Within

II. Basis for InerrancyII. Basis for Inerrancy

III. Response to ObjectionsIII. Response to Objections

Outline:I. Challenges to I. Challenges to InerrancyInerrancy



A. Challenges from A. Challenges from WithoutWithout

1. Jesus Seminary1. Jesus Seminary

2. DaVinci Code2. DaVinci Code

3. Bart Ehrman3. Bart Ehrman

1. The Jesus Seminar: Doubts Most of the Gospels

1. The Jesus Seminar: Doubts Most of the Gospels

• 82% is not authentic

• 16% more is

doubtful

• 98% total is in doubt

• 0% of John authentic

• 82% is not authentic

• 16% more is

doubtful

• 98% total is in doubt

• 0% of John authentic

The Jesus SeminarThe Jesus Seminar

“The Bible is a product of man, my dear. Not of God…. Man created it as a historical record…. The Bible, as we know it today, was collated by the pagan Roman emperor Constantine the Great” (231).

“The Bible is a product of man, my dear. Not of God…. Man created it as a historical record…. The Bible, as we know it today, was collated by the pagan Roman emperor Constantine the Great” (231).

2. DaVinci Challenge to The Reliability of the Gospels


“ Many have made a trade of delusions and false miracles, deceiving the stupid multitude….” (231).

“Almost everything our fathers taught us about Christ is false (234-235).

“ Many have made a trade of delusions and false miracles, deceiving the stupid multitude….” (231).

“Almost everything our fathers taught us about Christ is false (234-235).



3. Bart Ehrman: Doubts NT 3. Bart Ehrman: Doubts NT Manuscripts Manuscripts

““And these [NT Ms.] And these [NT Ms.] copies all copies all differ from one differ from one another, in another, in many many thousands of places….thousands of places…. These copies differ from each These copies differ from each other in so many places that other in so many places that

we don’t even know how many we don’t even know how many differences there are.” differences there are.”

(Misquoting Jesus, 10, (Misquoting Jesus, 10, 12).12).

Outline:I. Challenges to InerrancyI. Challenges to Inerrancy



1. Clark Pinnock1. Clark Pinnock

2. Peter Enns 2. Peter Enns

3. A. T. B. McGowen3. A. T. B. McGowen

1. Clark Pinnock• He claims to be an

evangelical.• He even claims to

believe in inerrancy.

• He was retained by the Evangelical Theological Society which holds:

“The Bible alone, and the Bible in its entirety, is the Word of God written and is therefore inerrant in the autographs.”

Yet Pinnock Stated That: 1) 1) “Barth was right to speak about a distance between “Barth was right to speak about a distance between

the Word of God and the text of the Bible”the Word of God and the text of the Bible” ( (Scripture Scripture PrinciplePrinciple, 99)., 99). 2) 2) “The Bible does not attempt to give the impression “The Bible does not attempt to give the impression that it is flawlessthat it is flawless in historical or scientific ways” (SP, 99). in historical or scientific ways” (SP, 99). 3) 3) “The Bible is not“The Bible is not a book like the Koran, consisting of a book like the Koran, consisting of nothing but perfectly infallible propositions...”nothing but perfectly infallible propositions...” (SP, 100). (SP, 100). 4) 4) “Did Jesus, teach the perfect errorless ness of the “Did Jesus, teach the perfect errorless ness of the Scriptures? No,Scriptures? No, not in plain terms” (SP, 57). not in plain terms” (SP, 57). 5) 5) “The New Testament does not teach a strict doctrine “The New Testament does not teach a strict doctrine of inerrancy”of inerrancy” (SP, 77). (SP, 77).

6) “The influence of myth is there in the Old Testament” (SP, 123).

2. Peter Enns• Taught at Taught at

Westminster Westminster Seminary.Seminary.

• Resigned under fire.Resigned under fire.• Teaches at Teaches at

Princeton.Princeton.• Wrote a book titled:Wrote a book titled:

Inspiration and Inspiration and Incarnation.Incarnation.

Yet Peter Enns Holds Yet Peter Enns Holds that:that:

1) 1) Myth is the proper way to describe GenesisMyth is the proper way to describe Genesis, even though , even though it also has some history (41, 49). it also has some history (41, 49).

2)The Bible is relativized by the culture of the day2)The Bible is relativized by the culture of the day in which in which it was written (43). it was written (43).

3) 3) It is a fallacious assumption to hold that the Bible is It is a fallacious assumption to hold that the Bible is accurate in all detailsaccurate in all details (47). (47).

4) 4) God adopted the mythical categories within which God adopted the mythical categories within which Abraham thoughtAbraham thought (53). (53).

5) 5) God transformed the ancient myths so as to focus them God transformed the ancient myths so as to focus them on Himon Him (54). (54).

6) 6) Ecclesiastes has contradictionsEcclesiastes has contradictions (77, 78). (77, 78).7) 7) NIV is wrong for assuming inerrancy as the basis of itsNIV is wrong for assuming inerrancy as the basis of its

translationtranslation (92). (92).

3. A. T. B. McGowen• Scottish TheologianScottish Theologian• He Teaches at He Teaches at

Reformed Seminary Reformed Seminary in Jackson, MS.in Jackson, MS.

• He wrote book on:He wrote book on:• Divine Spiration of Divine Spiration of

ScriptureScripture (IV Press). (IV Press).

Yet McGowen Believes that:

1) ICBI inerrancy statement is wrong1) ICBI inerrancy statement is wrong (103, 123). (103, 123).

2) The original Bible is not inerrant2) The original Bible is not inerrant (113). (113).

3) We should 3) We should give up the term inerrancygive up the term inerrancy for more for more dynamic terms like “authentic” or “infallible” (48, dynamic terms like “authentic” or “infallible” (48, 123).123).

4) We can’t base inerrancy on God’s nature 4) We can’t base inerrancy on God’s nature (115).(115).

5) The Incarnational analogy is wrong: 5) The Incarnational analogy is wrong: Bible is not Bible is not errorless like Jesus is sinlesserrorless like Jesus is sinless (118-121). (118-121).

6) Barth is right: Bible is not a revelation, but a 6) Barth is right: Bible is not a revelation, but a (fallible) human record(fallible) human record of revelation (21, 112). of revelation (21, 112).

7) Inerrancy involves a mechanical dictation view (65).7) Inerrancy involves a mechanical dictation view (65).

Outline:I. Challenges to I. Challenges to InerrancyInerrancy




Three Reasons the Three Reasons the Bible Cannot Err:Bible Cannot Err:

•God the Father,God the Father, •God the Son,God the Son, •God the Holy SpiritGod the Holy Spirit..

Reason One: God the Reason One: God the FatherFather

1. God cannot err.1. God cannot err.

2. The Bible is the Word of 2. The Bible is the Word of God.God.

3. Therefore, the Bible 3. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.cannot err.

The Thesis:The Thesis:

The Bible Which isThe Bible Which is

the Word ofthe Word ofGod Cannot ErrGod 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 err,God cannot err,

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

The Word of God The Word of God cannot err.cannot err.

And And if...if...

the Bible is the Bible is the Word of the Word of

God,God,

Then...Then...

the Bible the Bible cannot err.cannot err.

The only The only alternatives:alternatives:

1.1.Deny: "God Deny: "God

cannot err."cannot err." Deny: Deny:

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

oorr

or or bothboth

But God Cannot But God Cannot Err:Err:

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

Hebrews saysHebrews says:: ""It is It is impossible for impossible for God to lie.God to lie."" (6:18) (6:18)Hebrews saysHebrews says:: ""It is It is impossible for 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.”your word is truth.” (119:160) (119:160)The psalmist said:The psalmist said: "The sum of "The sum of your word is truth.”your word is truth.” (119:160) (119:160)

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

Paul said:Paul said: "Let "Let God be trueGod be true…."…." (Rom. 3:4)(Rom. 3:4) "The God who "The God who cannot cannot lielie."." (Titus 1:2) (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 the "If he called them gods, unto whom the word of Godword of God came, and the scripture came, and the scripture cannot be brokencannot be broken."." (Jn. 10:34-35) (Jn. 10:34-35)

Jesus said so:Jesus said so:

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


Jesus said so:Jesus said so: "If he called them gods, unto whom "If he called them gods, unto whom the word of the word of

GodGod came, and the scripture came, and the scripture cannot be brokencannot be broken."." (Jn. 10:34-35)(Jn. 10:34-35)

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

GodGod came, and the scripture came, and the scripture cannot be brokencannot be broken."." (Jn. 10:34-35)(Jn. 10:34-35)

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

and the scripture and the scripture cannot be brokencannot be broken."." (Jn. 10:34-35) (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 the traditions of men…, making the word of Godword of God of no effect of no effect through your traditions”through your traditions” (Mk. 7:8, 13) (Mk. 7:8, 13)

• Paul said so:Paul said so:• "All scripture is given by "All scripture is given by inspiration of Godinspiration of God…." (2 Tim. 3:16)…." (2 Tim. 3:16)• "Not as though the "Not as though the word of Godword of God hath taken none effect.” hath taken none effect.” (Rom. 9:6)(Rom. 9:6)

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, came,

and the scripture and the scripture cannot be brokencannot be broken."." (Jn. 10:34-35) (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 the traditions of men…, making the word of Godword of God of no effect of no effect through your traditions”through your traditions” (Mk. 7:8, 13) (Mk. 7:8, 13)

• Paul said so:Paul said so:• "All scripture is given by "All scripture is given by inspiration of Godinspiration of God…." (2 Tim. 3:16)…." (2 Tim. 3:16)• "Not as though the "Not as though the word of Godword of God hath taken none effect.” hath taken none effect.” (Rom. 9:6)(Rom. 9:6)

Therefore...Therefore...



3. Hence, the Bible cannot 3. Hence, the Bible cannot err.err.



3. Hence, the Bible cannot 3. Hence, the Bible cannot err.err.

Reason Two: God the Son.Reason Two: God the Son. Reason Two: God the Son.Reason Two: God the Son. 1. Whatever the Son of God affirmed as 1. Whatever the Son of God affirmed as

true, is true.true, is true.2. The Son of God (Jesus) affirmed the 2. The Son of God (Jesus) affirmed the

Bible is the Word of God.Bible is the Word of God.3. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is 3. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is

the Word of God.the Word of God.4. But the Word of God cannot err.4. But the Word of God cannot err.5. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.5. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.

1. Whatever the Son of God affirmed as 1. Whatever the Son of God affirmed as true, is true.true, is true.

2. The Son of God (Jesus) affirmed the 2. The Son of God (Jesus) affirmed the Bible is the Word of God.Bible is the Word of God.

3. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is 3. Therefore, it is true that the Bible is the Word of God.the Word of God.

4. But the Word of God cannot err.4. But the Word of God cannot err.5. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.5. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.

Jesus affirmed the Bible Jesus affirmed the Bible has:has:Jesus affirmed the Bible Jesus affirmed the Bible has: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, Ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 5)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; Scientific accuracy (Mt. 19:4-5; Jn. 3:12)Jn. 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, Ultimate supremacy (Mt. 15:3, 5)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; Scientific accuracy (Mt. 19:4-5; Jn. 3:12)Jn. 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. If Jesus is the Son of God...1. If Jesus is the Son of God...

2. Then the Bible is the Word of 2. Then the Bible is the Word of God.God.

And...And...

3. If the Bible is not the Word of 3. If the Bible is not the Word of God...God...

4. Then Jesus is not the Son of 4. Then Jesus is not the Son of God.God.

1. If Jesus is the Son of God...1. If Jesus is the Son of God...

2. Then the Bible is the Word of 2. Then the Bible is the Word of God.God.

And...And...

3. If the Bible is not the Word of 3. If the Bible is not the Word of God...God...

4. Then Jesus is not the Son of 4. Then Jesus is not the Son of God.God.

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

1. The Bible is the words of 1. The Bible is the words of human beings.human beings.

2. Human beings err.2. Human beings err.

3. Therefore, the Bible errs.3. Therefore, the Bible errs.




The Bad Premise:The Bad Premise: The Bad Premise:The Bad Premise: 1. The Bible is the words of 1. The Bible is the words of

human beings.human 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.”

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


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

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



Peter said:Peter said: "For the prophecy "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of came not in old time by the will of man: but man: but holy men of God spoke holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:21) (2 Peter 1:21)Luke wrote:Luke wrote: “God “God spoke by the spoke by the mouth of his holy prophetsmouth of his holy prophets long long ago.” (Acts 3:21) ago.” (Acts 3:21)

Peter said:Peter said: "For the prophecy "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of came not in old time by the will of man: but man: but holy men of God spoke holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:21) (2 Peter 1:21)Luke wrote:Luke wrote: “God “God spoke by the spoke by the mouth of his holy prophetsmouth of his holy prophets long long ago.” (Acts 3:21) ago.” (Acts 3:21)



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 The Living Word The Written WordWritten Word

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

Jesus Jesus “was “was without sinwithout sin" (Heb. 4:15); " (Heb. 4:15);

"had "had no sinno sin" (2 Cor. 5:21); " (2 Cor. 5:21);

“ “was was without blemish or defectwithout blemish or defect" (1 Pet. 1:19); " (1 Pet. 1:19);

“ “is is righteous"righteous" (1Jn. 2:1) (1Jn. 2:1)

“ “is is pure”pure” (1 Jn. 3:3). (1 Jn. 3:3).

Jesus Jesus “was “was without sinwithout sin" (Heb. 4:15); " (Heb. 4:15);

"had "had no sinno sin" (2 Cor. 5:21); " (2 Cor. 5:21);

“ “was was without blemish or defectwithout blemish or defect" (1 Pet. 1:19); " (1 Pet. 1:19);

“ “is is righteous"righteous" (1Jn. 2:1) (1Jn. 2:1)

“ “is is pure”pure” (1 Jn. 3:3). (1 Jn. 3:3).

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

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

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

“ “is is flawless”flawless” (Prov. 30:4): (Prov. 30:4):

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

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

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

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

“ “is is flawless”flawless” (Prov. 30:4): (Prov. 30:4):

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

Likewise,Likewise,

Response to McGowen:Objections:Objections: He claims this is a bad analogy He claims this is a bad analogy

because: 1) There is no union of both the because: 1) There is no union of both the human and divine aspects of Scripture in human and divine aspects of Scripture in one one personspersons, as there is with Christ’s two , as there is with Christ’s two natures. 2) The Bible is not divine; only natures. 2) The Bible is not divine; only Christ is divine.Christ is divine.

Response:Response: 1) However, there is a union in 1) However, there is a union in one one set of propositionsset of propositions (sentences). The Bible is (sentences). The Bible is co-authored by God an men. 2) It is true that co-authored by God an men. 2) It is true that only Christ is divine, but only Christ is divine, but both Christ and the both Christ and the Bible are the Word of God, and the Word of Bible are the Word of God, and the Word of God cannot err.God cannot err.

McGowen’s Misleading Argument:• 1. The Bible is the words of human

beings.• 2. The words of human beings can err.• 3. Hence, the Bible can err.

McGowen’s Misleading Argument:• 1. The Bible is the words of human beings.1. The Bible is the words of human beings.• 2. The words of human beings can err.2. The words of human beings can err.• 3. Hence, the Bible can err.3. Hence, the Bible can err.

Response:Response: 1) Just because humans 1) Just because humans can can err does err does not mean that they not mean that they dodo err. 2) Isfa it is God’s err. 2) Isfa it is God’s Word, the Bible Word, the Bible can’t err.can’t err. 3) But Isfa it is 3) But Isfa it is human words, the Bible human words, the Bible can errcan err but but didn’t errdidn’t err. . In either case, the Bible is In either case, the Bible is without error. without error. 4) The 4) The same is true of Christ.same is true of Christ. As God, he As God, he could notcould not sin. sin. As man he As man he could sincould sin but but did notdid not sin. In both sin. In both cases, He was cases, He was without sin.without sin.

FatherFather

Holy

Spirit

Holy

Spirit

SonSonHuma

nNatur

e

Human

Nature

DivineNatur

e

DivineNatur

e

Distinction of Christ’s Two NaturesDistinction of Christ’s Two Natures

Unlimited Knows all things Could not sin

Limited Didn’t know all thingsCould sin (but didn’t)

Likewise, The Bible as human could but did not err.

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

The Logic of the Argument:The Logic of the Argument:

1. The Spirit of Truth cannot 1. The Spirit of Truth cannot utter error.utter error.

2. The Bible is the utterance of 2. The Bible is the utterance of the Spirit of Truth.the Spirit of Truth.

3. Therefore, the Bible cannot 3. Therefore, the Bible cannot err.err.




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 tongue."word 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 tongue."word 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. The Spirit of Truth cannot 1. 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. The Bible (in addition to 1. The Bible (in addition to being written by being written by humans) is the Word of humans) is the Word of God, and--God, and--



1. The Bible (in addition to 1. The Bible (in addition to being written by being written by humans) is the Word of humans) is the Word of God, and--God, and--



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 cannotGod the Holy Spirit cannot err.err.

• Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:• The The authenticity authenticity of God the Fatherof God the Father• The The authority authority of God the Sonof God the Son• The The ministryministry of God the Spirit of 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 cannotGod the Holy Spirit cannot err.err.

• Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:Therefore, an attack on the Bible is an attack on:• The The authenticity authenticity of God the Fatherof God the Father• The The authority authority of God the Sonof God the Son• The The ministryministry of God the Spirit of God the Spirit

The Bible: The Bible: No Errors No Errors butbut many many difficultiesdifficulties A Helpful Comparison: A Helpful Comparison:

The Bible: The Bible: No Errors No Errors butbut many many difficultiesdifficulties 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))

Outline:Outline:I. Challenges to I. Challenges to InerrancyInerrancy




III. Response to III. Response to ObjectionsObjections

Response to Objections of the Critics:

•The Bible does not err.The Bible does not err.•But the Critics err about But the Critics err about

the Bible.the Bible.

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 wrong?Road signs were wrong?• Traffic signals were Traffic signals were

reversed?reversed?• Food labels were Food labels were

incorrect?incorrect?• Numbers on currency Numbers on currency

were wrong?were wrong?• Signs on restrooms were Signs on restrooms were

reversed? reversed? • Disaster would result!!!Disaster would result!!!

• Road signs were wrong?Road signs were wrong?• Traffic signals were Traffic signals were

reversed?reversed?• Food labels were Food labels were

incorrect?incorrect?• Numbers on currency Numbers on currency

were wrong?were wrong?• Signs on restrooms were Signs on restrooms were

reversed? 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 RevelationGeneral Revelation no conflictno conflict Special RevelationSpecial Revelation

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



GODGODGODGOD



Views of ScientistsViews of Scientists conflictconflict Views of TheologiansViews of Theologians

Evolution CreationismEvolution Creationism

Round earth Square EarthRound earth Square Earth



Views of ScientistsViews of Scientists conflictconflict Views of TheologiansViews of Theologians

Evolution CreationismEvolution Creationism

Round earth Square EarthRound earth Square Earth

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.

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 thereWherever there are are twotwo, , there is alwaysthere is always oneone. . It Never Fails!It Never Fails!

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



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

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

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

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

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

Acts (1:18):Acts (1:18): "...falling headlong, he "...falling headlong, he burst open in the middleburst open in the middle and all 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): Matthew (27:5): Judas Judas "hanged "hanged himself.“himself.“

Acts (1:18):Acts (1:18): "...falling headlong, he "...falling headlong, he burst open in the middleburst open in the middle and all 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

preprescientificscientific. .

Illustrations:Illustrations: It speaks of the sunIt speaks of the sun "standing "standing still"still" (Josh. 10:12) and the sun(Josh. 10:12) and the sun "rising"rising.." " ((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

preprescientificscientific. .

Illustrations:Illustrations: It speaks of the sunIt speaks of the sun "standing "standing still"still" (Josh. 10:12) and the sun(Josh. 10:12) and the sun "rising"rising.." " ((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 it was common to use round numbers.But it was common to use round numbers. (Jesus was “about thirty years of age”--Lk. (Jesus was “about thirty years of age”--Lk.

3:23)3:23) Even scientists round off Pi to a limited Even scientists round off Pi to a limited

number.number.

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 it was common to use round numbers.But it was common to use round numbers. (Jesus was “about thirty years of age”--Lk. (Jesus was “about thirty years of age”--Lk.

3:23)3:23) Even scientists round off Pi to a limited Even scientists round off Pi to a limited

number.number.

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 --"And the tongue isis a fire, a world of 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 "The kingdom of heaven is likeis like to a 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 --"And the tongue isis a fire, a world of 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 "The kingdom of heaven is likeis like to a 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 --"Blind guides, who strain out a gnat strain out a gnat and swallow a camel."and swallow a camel." (Mt. 19:24) (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 shadow of thy wingsthy wings.” (Psa. 36:7).” (Psa. 36:7)

AnthropomorphismAnthropomorphism--"--"God repentedGod repented of the evil, 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 nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should he is not a man, that he should repentrepent.” (1 Sam. 15:29).” (1 Sam. 15:29)

SatireSatire --"Blind guides, who --"Blind guides, who strain out a gnat strain out a gnat and swallow a camel."and swallow a camel." (Mt. 19:24) (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 shadow of thy wingsthy wings.” (Psa. 36:7).” (Psa. 36:7)

AnthropomorphismAnthropomorphism--"--"God repentedGod repented of the evil, 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 nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should he is not a man, that he should repentrepent.” (1 Sam. 15:29).” (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 writtenbooks that should be written." (Jn. 21:25)." (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 writtenbooks that should be written." (Jn. 21:25)." (Jn. 21:25)

McGowen’s ErrorMcGowen’s ErrorObjection:Objection: McGowen calls this a McGowen calls this a “a very “a very

good example” of an error in the Bible.good example” of an error in the Bible. He He alleges that alleges that in Matthew 9:18 Jairus told in Matthew 9:18 Jairus told Jesus that his daughter was dead. But in Jesus that his daughter was dead. But in Mark and Luke Jairus told Jesus she was Mark and Luke Jairus told Jesus she was only “at the point of death”only “at the point of death” (Mk 5:23) (Mk 5:23) but but not dead. Luke said she was only “dying” not dead. Luke said she was only “dying” but not yet dead (Lk. 8:42).but not yet dead (Lk. 8:42). McGowen McGowen hastily concludes that “there is a clear hastily concludes that “there is a clear contradictioncontradiction between the initial words of between the initial words of Jairus as recorded by Matthew and the Jairus as recorded by Matthew and the other Evangelists” (113). other Evangelists” (113).

Objection:Objection: McGowen calls this a McGowen calls this a “a very “a very good example” of an error in the Bible.good example” of an error in the Bible. He He alleges that alleges that in Matthew 9:18 Jairus told in Matthew 9:18 Jairus told Jesus that his daughter was dead. But in Jesus that his daughter was dead. But in Mark and Luke Jairus told Jesus she was Mark and Luke Jairus told Jesus she was only “at the point of death”only “at the point of death” (Mk 5:23) (Mk 5:23) but but not dead. Luke said she was only “dying” not dead. Luke said she was only “dying” but not yet dead (Lk. 8:42).but not yet dead (Lk. 8:42). McGowen McGowen hastily concludes that “there is a clear hastily concludes that “there is a clear contradictioncontradiction between the initial words of between the initial words of Jairus as recorded by Matthew and the Jairus as recorded by Matthew and the other Evangelists” (113). other Evangelists” (113).

Response:Response: This is not an error because:

First, “while he [Jairus] was still speaking, someone from the ruler’s house came and said, ‘Your daughter is dead’” (Lk. 8:49). So, initially Jesus said she was not dead but later (after hearing that she had died), then Jesus said she was dead.

Response:Response: This is not an error because:This is not an error because:

First, First, “while he [Jairus] was still “while he [Jairus] was still speaking, someone from the ruler’s speaking, someone from the ruler’s house came and said, ‘Your daughter is house came and said, ‘Your daughter is dead’” (Lk. 8:49). dead’” (Lk. 8:49). So, initially she was So, initially she was not said to be dead but later (after not said to be dead but later (after hearing that she had died), then Jesus hearing that she had died), then Jesus said she was dead. said she was dead.

Second, Second, Matthew did not say that Matthew did not say that Jesus said anything that in fact Jesus Jesus said anything that in fact Jesus did not say.did not say.

Response:Response: This is not an error because:This is not an error because:

First, First, “while he [Jairus] was still speaking, “while he [Jairus] was still speaking, someone from the ruler’s house came and said, someone from the ruler’s house came and said, ‘Your daughter is dead’” (Lk. 8:49). ‘Your daughter is dead’” (Lk. 8:49). So, So, initially she was not said to be dead but later initially she was not said to be dead but later (after hearing that she had died), then Jesus (after hearing that she had died), then Jesus said she was dead. said she was dead.

Second, Second, Matthew did not say Matthew did not say

said anything that in fact he did not say.said anything that in fact he did not say.

Third, as to the time things were said, Third, as to the time things were said, Matthew used a legitimate Matthew used a legitimate literary device literary device called conflation,called conflation, combining the two parts of combining the two parts of the conversation, stressing the point that the the conversation, stressing the point that the girl had actually died by that time. girl had actually died by that time.

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 40,000 stalls.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 4242..

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

Ahaziah was Ahaziah was 2222. .

(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 These errors are found only in only in copies,copies, not in the originals. not in the originals.

2.2. They are They are rare.rare.

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

4.4. We usually know which one is We usually know which one is correctcorrect by the context or by by the context or by other verses. other verses.

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

2.2. They are They are rare.rare.

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

4.4. We usually know which one is We usually know which one is correctcorrect by the context or by by the context or by other verses. other verses.

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"


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


"YO# HAVE WON TEN MILLION "YO# 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 we The more errors, the more sure we

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

copies than this message has.copies than this message has.

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 we The more errors, the more sure we

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

copies than this message has.copies than this message has.

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 Paul's companions "heard""heard"

the voice (Acts 9:7), the voice (Acts 9:7), but also that they did but also that they did notnot "hear" "hear" the 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.” I heard the speak louder.” I heard the soundsound but but not the not the meaning.meaning.

Other Alleged Bible Contradictions

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

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


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

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


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

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

Other Alleged Contradictions

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

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

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

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

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

Second, the Bible does not use Second, the Bible does not use modern technical categories but modern technical categories but those useful for an average those useful for an average observer who could see by this observer who could see by this chewing motion whether it was an chewing motion whether it was an unclean animal or not. The Bible unclean animal or not. The Bible employs the same observational employs the same observational language when it speaks of “sun language when it speaks of “sun rise” and “sun set.”rise” and “sun set.”


Problem: Problem: In Matt. 10:9-10 says “Do not In Matt. 10:9-10 says “Do not take…a staff [for your journey]” but take…a staff [for your journey]” but Mark 6:8 says to “take nothing for Mark 6:8 says to “take nothing for their journey, except a mere staff….”their journey, except a mere staff….”

Answer: Answer: Mark declares that they Mark declares that they should take nothing except a staff should take nothing except a staff which a traveler would normally have. which a traveler would normally have. Whereas, Matthew says they are not Whereas, Matthew says they are not to acquire an to acquire an extraextra staff. In short, staff. In short, travel light. Don’t even take “two travel light. Don’t even take “two tunics” (Mt. 10:10).tunics” (Mt. 10:10).


Problem: Problem: Matt. 8:5 says the Matt. 8:5 says the “centurion came to Him entreating “centurion came to Him entreating Him….” But Luke 7:6 says “the Him….” But Luke 7:6 says “the centurion sent friends” to speak to centurion sent friends” to speak to Jesus.Jesus.

Answer: Answer: Both are true; the centurion Both are true; the centurion spoke through his representatives spoke through his representatives just as the Secretary of State just as the Secretary of State speaks for the president as his speaks for the president as his official representative.official representative.


Problem:Problem: Jesus said temple “not one Jesus said temple “not one stone will be left upon another” when stone will be left upon another” when it is destroyed. But the foundation it is destroyed. But the foundation stones of the temple are still there.stones of the temple are still there.

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.greatcommission.com/israel/JerusalemTempleWesternWailingWall.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.greatcommission.com/israel/Israel.html&usg=__G62Ey35ItGa0YeycgHB1xSUCvJ4=&h=580&w=886&sz=263&hl=en&start=15&um=1&tbnid=0b5npZeQINsAUM:&tbnh=96&tbnw=146&prev=/images?q=wailing+wall+in+Jerusalem&hl=en&safe=active&sa=G&um=1

Response:Response: 1)1) Taken literally,Taken literally, Jesus spoke only of Jesus spoke only of

the the buildingbuilding, not of its , not of its foundationfoundation, , and the building was totally and the building was totally destroyed. destroyed.

2)2) 2) 2) Taken figurativelyTaken figuratively, it could have , it could have been a figure of speech meaning been a figure of speech meaning “complete destruction” which did “complete destruction” which did occur in A.D. 70. occur in A.D. 70.

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.

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 DifficultiesBible Difficulties..

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 DifficultiesBible 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..

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 issword...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)

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 issword...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)

the divine inspiration of scripture current challenges to inerrancy copyright by norman geisler 2009

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