The Bible is full of events, names of people, places, and even includes dates that have proven true over time by different studies. However, there will always be those that argue against Scripture saying it contains errors and it contradicts itself in many areas. So what are we supposed to do when this happens? What can we believe about Scripture in light of so many concerning questions against its validity?
The Bible makes the claim to be a collection of Scripture that is breathed out by God, profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, training, and to equip and complete us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It was written so that we can believe Jesus is the Christ and Son of God (John 20:31). It was written for our instruction and for us to have hope (Romans 15:4).
The Word of God never claimed to read like a book in chronological order from cover to cover, or even be a book about rules or good behavior. It’s a series of 66 books and letters written by various authors. It was written by people with various careers and backgrounds. However, the purpose, principle, and plan laid out from Genesis to Revelation has amazing unity to it.
- Is it possible that with different people writing it, that something could differ slightly from one another? Sure
- Could different letters be unique in their teaching and emphasis based on their areas? Yes
- When people have copied it over time, could something written in plural be changed to singular? Of course
While this may immediately make you think “contradiction,” I’d encourage you not to go there so quickly.
Manuscripts were copied and very small changes took place. It might be something like “an” being changed to “a.” The point is, there are many wrong assumptions out there claiming contradictions and inaccuracies to huge parts of the Bible when it comes to the original text, but that is simply not true.
If there were actual contradictions in Scripture, then the entire Bible would be inauthentic and a waste. Scripture has fulfilled every single claim it has made, continues to do so, and is used in the lives of millions of Christians daily. It has provided teaching and wisdom to so many men and women over time and has led them to Jesus, equipping them to do what God is calling them to do.
The Bible is perfect, God’s Word, and a story. All throughout Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, we read about God who created everything to be perfect and in harmony with one another. Sin entered the picture through man (Adam and Eve) and distorted everything separating ourselves away from God who is Holy and perfect (without sin). God in His mercy and grace towards us sent us His Son, Jesus Christ to make a way for us to the Father.
If there were actual contradictions in Scripture, then the entire Bible would be inaccurate.
That is why Jesus came as God and Man, lived a perfect life, died for us on the cross (paying our penalty for our sin), and rose again defeating death and sin in victory. For those who believe this and choose to follow Christ (trusting Him and surrendering to Him) are forever forgiven and made right again with God as He originally intended. And when Jesus returns, those who follow Christ will be with God forever for all eternity. Those who choose to not follow Jesus and be against God, will be separated from Him forever for all eternity.
The point of this true story is that salvation is made available for all through Jesus. We all have a chance to choose to follow Him and be delivered from sin. We know something is not right with the world and we all struggle…it’s a matter of if we are going to trust what the Bible says about Christ and choose to follow Him or not. There’s no middle ground. I’d encourage you to consider reading the Bible and truly seeking if there are really contradictions in there or not. It’s too important to not give it a legitimate shot.
While there will still be claims of contradictions in the Bible, as we have seen…see now…and will continue to see…nothing has prevented the Bible from accomplishing what it says will happen. And as time goes on, we will continue to see it’s results and proof of it’s absolute truth and perfection.
Here are other Frequently Asked Questions and how the Bible answers them.
AMEN! I myself have found that when I cannot understand something that seems like a contradiction, when I truly seek the intention of God and the holiness we are called to follow, I am shown a way to live that lines up to the Word. There are no contradictions, it is merely our flesh that contradicts, but with every effort of imitating my Father, from glory to glory, I am made more into His likeness the more I line MYSELF up to the Word as a mirror, rather than trying to force the Word to line up with what the… Read more »
Awesome Sharon! Really appreciate you sharing that and I agree all the way…it is always myself getting in the way when there is an “error” in Scripture. It simply doesn’t contradict and is perfect just like God. It’s an attitude of humility to come before the Word over and over again and believe fully in what it says.
Great post, Mike! It seems to me that contemporary issues Christians today seem to fight — and use the Scriptures to defend — when compared to specific verses (taken out of context) is what produces the *appearance of a contradiction. For instance, if I use Scripture to talk about being pro-life, invariably someone will find the I Kings 3 passage where, “It says King Solomon ordered a baby cut in half,” and then ask, “How can God be pro-life yet call Solomon the wisest man alive?” You see, the issue isn’t what Scripture actually says or means. The issue isn’t… Read more »
Great points Gershom, thanks for sharing! I think it ultimately points to the value of relationships and at least trying to have a conversation and caring for someone more than 5 seconds. Most of those arguments seem to stem from quick debates lasting for about 2 minutes and then everyone leaves angry.
Always a good reminder for those who follow Christ to make sure He is first and foremost and to love others well.
Hi Mike. Thanks for this. I think it’s so sad when people get hung up on what they think is wrong with the Bible, when it has so much in it that is RIGHT!
Thanks for sharing Glenys. It seems like most people have never really read it or studied it before they make accusations. My hope is that more people would at least give it a shot and “try it out” to see for themselves. It would be amazing to see life change happen through the living and active Word of God!
Great post, Mike! Have a dear friend struggling with just this issue. I will pass this on to her! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much Marty! Appreciate the encouragement!