Is the Bible the word of God? That's a question asked by every generation since the canon of scripture and is impossible to answer in this column. Still I'd like to give evidence that might help settle the question of inspiration of the Bible.
First, external evidence from people whose lives have been transformed by God as they believed the scriptures. Sir Isaac Newton said, "We account the scriptures of God to be the most sublime philosophy. I find more sure marks of authenticity in the Bible than in any profane history whatsoever." George Washington said, "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and Bible."
External evidence is more than some cool quotes. It's seen in the lives of people who have been transformed by the God of the Bible. When a person comes to true faith their life transformed and the Bible has been a huge part of that transformation for millions of people throughout the generations.
Secondly, there is internal evidence what the Bible says about itself.
2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
God-breathed means, inspired by God, from his very breath, written by people yet coming from the heart of God. Written for the purpose of teaching and equipping for a godly life.
Hebrews 4:12, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Again speaking of the power of God's word to change lives. The Bible is like a sword that cuts the smallest places and judges even hard hearts and bad attitudes. It's living and always speaking, not just a book but divinely inspired.
Internal evidence of the Bible is also seen in the lives of historical men and women who were touched by Jesus Christ. There's Mary Magdalene who at one time she was ruled by darkness, with demonic forces controlling her life. She's transformed by Jesus and becomes an important figure in the first century church. There's the Apostles who, all except John, died a martyr's death. They were tortured, crucified, stoned, or run through with swords which speaks volumes about their faith. They considered Jesus who said he died for their sins, to be worth dying for. I think that's powerful evidence of the message they believed.
There will always be debate over the scriptures but I found that if you believe in God, the inspiration of Scripture takes your faith to the level of action. It challenges you to take your faith and put it to work, because there is a God who has revealed himself and left us a written account to show us he has a plan that is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. What do you believe about the Bible? Read it and see what it says.
Pastor Rich Lammay of High Sierra Fellowship is a member-of the Carson Valley Ministers' Association.
