Discussion Post 1

2 Timothy 3:16–17 “16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

The inerrancy of Scripture is the assertion that Scripture in its original form is without error, mistake, or contradiction in its presentation of historical, scientific, and moral declarations. The Word of God is pure and without mistake.

The position holding to inerrancy of Scripture was solidified in the Reformation’s sola Scriptura, which declares the Scripture is alone sufficient and authoritative.

While Christians historically held to the idea of inerrancy, the 20th and 21st century has seen a downward shift in the belief that Scripture is inerrant. Many of those arguments follow the line of perceived contradictions or inaccuracies in Scripture. Those thoughts come from what are seen as discrepancies in the sequence of events in some passages. However, the challenge with those arguments is that exhibit poor hermeneutics by not discerning differences in literary genre, style, and literary device.

The Arguments Against Inerrancy

Interpretive Integrity and Authority are issues debated by some seminarians. There are many who believe that Scriptural interpretation and application are individually based. Those who use intersectionality and conflict theories including feminist theory, and other ideas suggest the inerrancy of Scripture cannot stand the test of critical thought from various perspectives.

Then there is the issue of Cultural Incongruences and tensions. These issues are one unfortunate reason for disbelief in the inerrancy of the Scripture. Pauline epistles, have especially come under great scrutiny in the modern culture, because of their clear contradiction with the moral attitudes of many professing Christians today.

My beliefs in inerrancy

I first believe in the inerrancy of Scripture based upon Paul’s declaration that “All scripture is given by inspiration of God…(1 Timothy 3:16-17). This glorious declaration speaks more to just the inspiration of Scripture, it supports the idea that an infinite God, has breathed out divine truth, and since God is true, he cannot lie, nor will He allow His word to be found in error (Psalm 19:7-9; Numbers 23:19).

The Omnipotence of God is able to keep and preserve His word without the corrupting influence of fallen humanity. The God who has enough power to create the world and all that is therein has the ability and authority to preserve his Holy word. “The grass withers and the flower fadeth: But the word of our God shall stand for ever (Isaiah 40:8).”

The Authority of God’s word stands beyond the ideologies of men. God’s word is authoritative and is used in interpreting itself. The ideas and philosophies of humanity cannot be seen as equal to the authority of God’s word, and therefore are not be seen as more reliable than the Scripture itself. No Scripture is given by private interpretation (2 Peter 1:20-21).