Expert: Scott Talbot - 5/7/2009

Question
Hello, I am a Christian who loves reading God's word, but one thing that I always struggle with is the thought that the Bible is a book written by man. I know that truly only God can put that struggle to death, but I want to ask about what you know(academically and personally) to help me

Answer
Hi Edwin,

It's nice to hear from you.

I understand your struggle. Here are some thoughts that might help.

First, God clearly states that the Bible was authored by Him. It's just as much His message as if He spoke the words Himself.

2 Timothy 3:16 "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, ...."

2 Peter 1:20-21 "Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit."

Secondly, think of this. There is ample evidence that God exists: Creation, history, the life, ministry, miracles, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the current work of the Holy Spirit in men's lives.

If we understand that there is a God, does it not make sense that that same God would be willing and able to communicate with us? Does it not make sense that He would reveal Himself and His message clearly to us through written manuscripts? He did, through the Bible.

Sure, it may be difficult to understand how God worked through men to bring this about ... and how He would be able to preserve the integrity of the message over the course of thousands of years. But He was willing and able to do this, and He is also willing and able to preserve the truth of His message for all generations.

I hope this helps.

Scott