I’ve heard people say that since the Bible was written by so many people, it must be full of errors. It is generally accepted that the Bible was written by up to 40 authors, some of whom were from different cultures and in many languages over a period of at least 1,500 years. Several books have been written on the topic of the accuracy of the Bible but let’s ponder just a few thoughts here.

First, there are over 1,800 prophecies between the Old and New Testaments, such as the prophecy of Jesus born of a virgin in Bethlehem, how and why He died and that He would rise again. Actually, nearly one fourth of the Bible was prophetic when it was written. But the Bible affirms God’s intervention, rather than man’s imagination, in recording these prophecies. “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit,” (2 Peter 1:21 NIV).

Second, the Bible is unique from most books of other religions in that they have not even attempted to speak of future events. Yet, we are promised, “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished,” (Matthew 5:18 ESV). All prophecies will be fulfilled in time.

Third, contrary to other “holy” books where the writers make much of themselves, the Bible is clear about who God is and what Jesus did. Yet, it is also transparent about the flaws of the heroes of the Bible, such as King David’s infidelity, Peter’s denial of Jesus, Aaron carving a golden calf while Moses is receiving the 10 commandments and disputes among Paul, Barnabas and John Mark during their missionary journeys. Thankfully, forgiveness is also an important component in these situations. I believe that these events are included in the Bible, not as license to sin, but that we can learn from them as we struggle with our own sins. The apostle Paul states that “all scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correction and training in righteousness,” (2 Timothy 3:16 NIV). What an encouraging gift these lessons are!

Fourth, the Bible says that “Nothing will be impossible with God,” (Luke 1:37 ESV). If I am going to believe that some of the verses in the Bible might be incorrect because man may have made a mistake writing it, I am suggesting that it was impossible for God to keep the Bible accurate. That conclusion contradicts what the Bible says and demotes God from His rightful throne. Even historians and archeologists have consistently verified the accuracy of places, events and times reported in the Bible.

Even more important is the fact that if it is up to my finite mind and my sinful nature to decide what is right or wrong about the Bible, then I don’t know how I can believe any of it. I find it terrifying to even consider putting myself above God in judging the accuracy of His Word. I may not like certain verses, I may not agree with certain verses, I may not understand the depth of meaning of certain verses, but that does not make them untrue. “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar,” (Proverbs 30:5-6 NIV).

What an amazing adventure we have to get to investigate the deeper meaning of the Bible and rest in the confidence that we can trust that nothing is impossible with God including keeping His book true and accurate. Let’s delve into His Word so that we can learn more about the depths of His love for us!

Author of a second book, “Journeys in Faith, Pursing Obedience,” containing more than 50 additional devotionals written for The Minot Daily News.