Scripture is God’s very Word. The apostle Paul writes that “all Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). The words recorded in the earliest writings of Scripture originated from the mouth of God before ever reaching the minds and pens of the biblical writers. The Bible was written by men who were “carried along by” or directed by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). Consequently, the Bible does not originate with man. It is a product of God and carries the authority of God.

 

If scripture is” truth”, then there is evidence of this claim. Let’s look at just a little of the compelling evidence of the truth of God’s Word.

 

  • Unity of the Biblical Message: The Bible was written over a period of over 1,500 years, with at least 40 human writers, most of whom did not know each other and were from varying backgrounds (king, fisherman, tax collector, shepherd, etc.). The Bible was written in various environments (desert, prison, royal court, etc.). Three different languages were used to write the Bible, and, despite covering controversial subjects, it carries one harmonious message. From Genesis to Revelation, it holds a consistent message that invites readers into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. (John 17: 14-17).

 

  • Written Preservation: From handwritten scrolls to digital formats and many translations, Scripture has been faithfully preserved across centuries. “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away” (Matthew 24:35).

 

  • Fulfilled Prophecy: The Bible contains many, many prophecies. Some of the predictions were fulfilled in a short amount of time (Abraham and Sarah had a son, Peter denied Jesus three times, Paul was a witness for Jesus in Rome, etc.). Other predictions were fulfilled hundreds of years later. (2 Peter 1:21). 

 

  • Scientific Accuracy:The Bible should not be confused with a science textbook, but that does not mean that the Bible does not speak to issues that are scientific in nature. In some cases, science and the Bible have seemed to be at odds with each other. Yet, when science has advanced, the scientific theories have proved wrong and the Bible proved right.

 

  • Historical Accuracy: The Bible contains historical details that have been confirmed by archaeological findings, adding to its credibility.  Skeptics used to criticize the Bible however, each new ancient artifact offers a window into the Bible’s reliable record.

 

Most importantly, bible readers from all backgrounds have experienced transformative changes in their lives from reading, studying, and memorizing scripture. Personal stories of comfort and renewed purpose emerge when individuals open their hearts to the counsel of Scripture (Psalm 119:105). That counsel has proven to be truth throughout the ages.

  • Biblical truths, bring hope and direction where confusion exists (Hebrews 4:12).
  • The promise of salvation through the sacrifice and resurrection story have led countless people throughout history to believe wholeheartedly in the truth of scripture (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).

 

When considering all this evidence of the truth found in scripture, we must believe when the Bible teaches that “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23) and the “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23), then we need to believe this, too. And, when the Bible tells us that “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8) and that “whoever believes in [Jesus] shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16), then we can and should believe that, also.

 

The Word of God in all the messaging of scripture commands obedience, invites trust, provides prohibitions, and promises hope (Psalm 19:7-8). So worthy is God of our complete devotion that we are to submit our will (heart), harness our passions (soul), discipline our thinking (mind) and channel our energy (strength) to his glory through the power of the Holy Spirit (John 16:13, Colossians 2:8).

 

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