Theories of Inerrancy and Inspiration of Biblical Scriptures

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Published by AuthorHouse   02/25/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4416-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4415-7 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4817-4417-1 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013908095

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Contents

AUTHOR’S COMMENT

AUTHOR’S BIOGRAPHY

DEDICATION

BOOK SUMMARY

ABSTRACT

I.   Keywords for Engine Search.

II.   Purpose of Review.

III.   Method Employed.

IV.   Scope of Research.

V.   Findings:

VI.   Conclusions and Recommendations.

PREFACE

PART I

CHAPTER 1   INTRODUCTION

I.   Background Status

II.   Terminology: Definitions of Key Terms.

III.   Foundation of Research Project.

IV.   Thesis Statement.

V.   Research Overview Objectives.

VI.   Recommend that further research be explored as the result of this study.

CHAPTER 2   ANALYSIS OF INERRANCY

I.   Introductory Comments

II.   Contradictions of Critics and Christian’s Rebuttals.

III. Inerrancy Problems

IV. Inerrancy Beliefs and Response of Christians.

V. Critics contend discrepancies are observed in both the Old and New Testament.

VI. Inerrancy and the Church.

VII. Inerrancy and Hermeneutic.

VIII. Christian Faith-Inerrancy/Inspiration.

IX. Jesus’ Allusions of the Old Testament.

X. Writings of the Prophets.

XI. Inerrancy and God’s Word.

XIII. Erosion of Inerrancy

XIV. Scriptural Basis for Inerrancy

XV. Deductive Approach of Inerrancy

XVI. Inductive Approach of Inerrancy

XVII. Scripture Self-Attestation in the Old Testament.

CHAPTER 3   ANALYSIS OF INSPIRATION SOURCES

I.   General comment relative to this section of biblical Inspiration.

II.   Objections to Biblical Inspiration.

III.   Inspiration Defined.

IV.   Critics Objection to Inspiration.

V.   Principles of Inspiration.

VI.   Dual Authorship Confirms Inspiration.

VII.   Old Testament Affirms God Speaking through the Prophets.

VIII.   Dictations from God.

IX.   Verbal and Plenary Inspiration.

X.   Beliefs ofthe Bible.

XI. Natural Inspiration versus Spiritual Inspiration.

XII. Divine Inspiration.

XIII. Understanding Inspiration.

XIV Philosopher’s Criticism of the Gospels.

XV. Skandalon of the Cross.

XVI. Infallibility versus Inspiration.

XVII. Revelation, Inspiration, and Biblical Criticism.

XVIII. Church Doctrine of Inspiration.

CHAPTER 4   ADDITIONAL THEORIES ABOUT THE BIBLE

I.   Background Beliefs of Notable Christians

II.   Reformation of Inspiration.

III.   Inspiration of Scripture.

IV.   Inspiration Foundation of Christian Faith.

V.   Inspiration the Plan of the Ages

VI.   Liberal’s Views of the Bible.

CHAPTER 5   CONCLUSION

I. Thesis Statement:

II. Implication of Findings: Beliefs, Theories, and Practices:

III. Findings: Subjective Proposed Outcomes to the Discipline and Ministry:

IV. Further Study:

PART II

CHAPTER 6   CRITICS CONTRADICTIONS ABOUT THE NEW TESTAMENT

I.   Introduction

II.   Litrary Redaction Criticism

III.   Traditional Criticism

IV.   Major Contradictions Of Church Faith

V.   Conclusion Summarized

CHAPTER 7   THE PATRIARCH’S AND GOD’S CALLED MESSENGERS EXPRESS INSPIRATION AND TRUTH

CHAPTER 8   THE WORDS OF THE PROPHETS ESTABLISH INSPIRATION.

I.   The Prophets of the Old Testament

II.   Inspirational Prophecies Of Jeremiah

III.   Ezekiel’s Prophecies

CHAPTER 9   PALESTINE’S HISTORY DURING THE INTERTESTAMENTAL PERIOD

I.   Palestine History

II.   The Following Review Lists and Compares the Beliefs of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes.

III.   Jewish Views Of God And Worldwide Views In The Intertestmental Period

CHAPTER 10   THE THEOLOGICAL OVERVIEW RELATIONSHIP OF THE PERIOD BETWEEN THE RENAISSANCE AND THE REFORMATION

CHAPTER 11   BASIC CRITICAL METHODS FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF BIBLICAL SCRIPTURE

CHAPTER 12   FORMATION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT CANON

CHAPTER 13   THE AUTHORSHIPS OF THE FOUR

GOSPELS ARE IMPORTANT ISSUES OF INSPIRATION

CHAPTER 14   JEWISH HISTORICAL LEADERS THAT INFLUENCED THE COMING MESSIAH AND THE FOUNDING OF THE CHURCH

CHAPTER 15   THE SYNOPTIC GOSPELS-ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION SUMMARIZED FROM THE HISTORY OF INTERTESTAMENTAL PERIOD

I.   The Gospels of the New Testament

II.   The Development of the Synoptic Gospels.

III.   Theories and possible solutions for the Synoptic Gospels

CHAPTER 16   VIEWS OF THE JEWS DURING INTERESTAMENTAL PERIOD

I. Jews beliefs in God.

II.   The Jew’s Views Toward the Gentiles During the Intertestamental Period.

III.   Messianic Titles by the Jews in the First Century.

PART III

CHAPTER 17   THE BOOK OF REVELATION: THE CHRISTIAN APOCALYPSE.

I.   Introduction: (Items 1 through 4).

II.   Pseudonymous Literature

CHAPTER 18   REVELATION COMMENTS

I.   The History Sources Of Revelation

II.   Revelation’s Four Hoursemen Of The Apocalypse:

III   Great Tribulation Of The Trumpets

IV.   The Plagues Of Seven Vials Of God’s Wrath.

CHAPTER 19   THE WORLD TO COME

I.   The Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

II.   The Beast and the False Prophet

III.   Bible Scriptures Concerning Hell

IV.   The Abode of the Dead.

V.   The Battle of Armageddon

VI.   The Time of the Rapture in Relation to the Great Tribulation.

VI.   Other Theories of the Rapture Related to the Period of Tribulation.

CHAPTER 20   THE END OF THE WORLD

I.   The Millennial Reign

II.   Theories of the Millennial Reign.

III.   Theories of Resurrections

IV.   Conclusion relative to Resurrections.

V.   The New Jerusalem.

VI.   The Water And The Tree Of Life.

CHAPTER 21   REVELATION DISPENSATIONS

I.   Two Different Divine Events.

II.   Summary Of Events:

BOOK

PART IV

REFERENCES

ENDNOTES

FOOTNOTES

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Dr. Quinton B. Richmond, Ph.D.

GOD REVEALED THIS MESSAGE TO ME

TO KNOW GOD IS TO LOVE HIM

TO LOVE HIM IS ETERNAL LIFE

AND THE SCRIPTURE CANNOT BE BROKEN ( John 10:35)

AUTHOR’S COMMENT

The author of this book has included a display of various Scriptures which are included for the reader’s enhancement so that immediate comparison can be made in relationship with the author’s comment of the various topics discussed throughout this book. This enhancement makes it an easier task for the reader by eliminating hours in looking up the various Scriptural texts.

This book is written to convince all people that the Bible is the Inspired Word of God and in that believing and accepting His Word all may gain Eternal Life.

Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his Commandments (Deuteronomy 7:9).

MAY GOD’S RICHEST BLESSINGS BE YOUR FOREVER.

Dr. Quinton B. Richmond, PhD.

AUTHOR’S BIOGRAPHY

About the author: In academic accomplishments, the author graduated at Southwestern Assembly of God University, Waxahachie, Texas with Bachelor of Art, and Bachelor of Theology degrees and earned second salutatorian in his class. Beyond this a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, and Doctor of Philosophy was earned at Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary at Newburgh, Indiana. Also, as a student was awarded distinction of Honor membership in the National Omicron-Psi Honor Society. In Addition attended Miami University in Oxford, OH with graduate credits and became a Certified Public Accountant of Ohio with membership in the American Institute of CPA’ S. The author was ordained into the ministry with the General Council of The Assemblies of God, Springfield, Missouri and has served as pastor of churches at South Buie, Texas and New Carlisle, Ohio. In addition held tent revivals in Dallas, and Forth Worth, Texas areas. Also, preached in Michigan churches and performed radio broadcast in Dallas, Texas. In addition, he founded a church in Dallas, Texas, which is a large church today. Moreover, the author has gained religious experience through lifetime learning and through conferences and fellowship with church leaderships, staffs, and pastors which have enriched and ensured a foundation in religious matters. Similarly, have written religious songs published in Stamps Baxter song book, titled Songs of Joy.

And in the commercial world this writer was successful in business and owned a business operation in Public Accounting, Auditing and Tax practice and was Enrolled Agent qualified to practice before The Internal Revenue Service in Appellate and Tax Courts as a Certified Public Accountant in Ohio.

Further, in regional listings this author was entered into Who’s Who in the Midwest, 15th editions 1976-1977; Book of Honor American Biographical Institute, Second edition 1981; Two Thousand Notable Americans, first edition 1983; Who’s Who in the World. 7th edition 1984, 1985; and in the National Register’s Who’s Who in Executive and Professionals, 2002 Edition.

Further was issued a Certificate of Merit from The Small Business Association in 1977.

Likewise, worked at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio as an Air Force Contract Negotiator for large weapon systems. And completed negotiations with large commercial producers which ranged in price from forty million dollars ($40,000,000) and upward. During my course of work in negotiating contract prices, incumbent received letters of commendation and appreciation from Brigadier General Robert T. Marsh, U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and Dayton, Ohio; and from Major General, U.S. Andrews Air Force Base, Washington, D.C.; and from Brigadier General Theodore S. Coberly, U.S. Air force, Washington, D.C. for professional knowledge and competence which helped make possible the smooth launching of the development of vitally needed electronic warfare equipment for combat services in World War II. Moreover, served in the U.S. Navy on the warship, CVE 92, USS WINDHAM BAY in the South Pacific war zone area in World War II.

DEDICATION

Dedication of this book, Theories of Inerrancy and Inspiration of Biblical Scripture is hereby made to Dr. Harold F. Hunter, President of Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary, who was instrumental in encouraging me to never give up but continue to pursue my goals that God called me to do. There were times when thoughts of quitting became the norm because the courses seemed so hard and I was not attaining straight A’s in my studies. I even prayed and asked God if it was His will for me to continue in school but no answer was ever received from My Lord Jesus Christ. However, the urge to continue my studies never left me. So, I continued on with the help of the Lord and completed my studies as required.

In honor of my wife, Patricia Lee Richmond, (1928-2010), who has gone on to be with Jesus in the heavenly realm of glory, who constantly persuaded me to continue with my studies, even though she suffered my fellowship because I worked up to 2:00 A.M almost every night. Thereby, depriving her of our time together in precious communication with one another as husband and wife. In addition, dedication is made to my daughter Carolyn and family, to my son Larry and family, to my sister Nadine, and my niece Kristy and family. Because of their prayers for me I accomplished my goal.

It is hoped that this book may be used at Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary to encourage Bible student to fulfill God’s calling in their lives and never to give up pursing God’s desired goal for them. Also, as it has often been said, it is better to have tried and failed than to have never tried at all.

Dr. Quinton B. Richmond, PhD

BOOK SUMMARY

This book was written to help all born-again Christians to believe that Eternal Life begins in our present life on earth and continue on into the World of Eternity. It is designed to impress on the minds of all humankind that those who are considered their enemies, will respond and repay them in kindness as a friend.

Accordingly, the chosen subject, The Road to Eternal Life, was selected in order to broaden my knowledge and understanding of Christian believer’s concepts as to why Eternal Life can be lived in our present day journey on earth, and it is a viable truth in God’s plan of salvation. Also, this research is devoted to find out what concepts theories, and beliefs already exist in this area. In addition, my goal was to read and understand the history why Jesus Christ’s teachings’ are the Way, the Truth, and Everlasting Life for all who repent of sins and believe His Gospel. In addition, my purpose is with the intent to gain a new perspective and pursue efforts to add new thoughts and ideas and to strengthen prior ones in relation to the Kingdom of God which concerns the future and the End of Time. Furthermore, to pursue efforts in detailed reviews of other book data that contain ideas, concepts, and key theories of biblical opinions of God’s Eternal Life Plan… Then analyze and evaluate these sources information and evidence used in their conclusion.

Likewise, consider the values of other source ideas, theories, concepts, practices that are useful in today’s religious culture. Similarly, there is the desire to pursue creative innovations efforts which set forth new theories never before revealed on the subject of Eternal Life. In addition, my efforts are directed to provide accepted meaning, and strength, and theories that already exist. Likewise, the primary design of this research is: (1). to determine what claims are made by major sources in traditional work, (2). to determine if these prior sources actually report viable data, and evaluate and assess the validity of their arguments given for rejection/acceptance of Eternal Life, (3). to determine what ideas, theories, and practices are based on inductive and deductive practices.

ABSTRACT

SUBJECT: THEORIES OF INERRANCY AND INSPIRATION BIBLICAL SCRIPTURES

Quinton B. Richmond, PhD.

Trinity College of the Bible and Trinity Theological Seminary

I.   Keywords for Engine Search.

A. Biblical Inerrancy, B. Biblical Infallibility, C. Biblical Inspiration, D. Plenary Inspiration, E. Protestant, F. Reformation, G. Renaissance, H Scripture, I Sensus Plenior, and J. Verbal Inspiration.

II.   Purpose of Review.

The purpose ofthis book is to pursue and to determine the validity, authority, and trustworthiness of the Bible relative to Inerrancy and Inspiration. This book review is to assist Christian Believers, who trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior and provider of grace and salvation, to know the truth contained in the Bible…

It is this author’s desire that further study be made which will establish the truthfulness of the biblical scriptures of the Bible.

III.   Method Employed.

The plan is to research a great number of biblical sources, and make a special study of available data. Then, analyze, and evaluate those ideas, concepts, and theories along with the author’s input which concern Inerrancy and Inspiration disclosed in the Old Testament Bible and the Gospel of Jesus Christ written by the apostles.

IV.   Scope of Research.

The scope of this research is to evaluate data of arguments given in rejection and acceptance of biblical scriptures, and to analyze and evaluate the evidences used to support all claims. Moreover to determine if new theories can be found and if new ideas may be found which would strengthen those that already exist.

V.   Findings:

A. Source rejection of the Bible.

The sources which reject the truths of Inerrancy and Inspiration and other biblical doctrines, also, claim that the Bible is not the Word of God because it is the works ofhumans. Further, the rejecting intellectuals claim science does not support God’s creation of the universe or the creations of humans. Also, critics claim discrepancies are found in various texts in the Old Testament, and New Testament. In the synoptic gospels, John, and Acts, some critics say that many passages are not parallel. In addition, Liberals and critics deny miracles, healings, and the stories of the flood, for all of these denied beliefs are merely assumptions of which no Christian should accept. Also non-believers say Jesus left the impression his return to earth would happen in the First Century. Textual criticism claims that Christians try to prove that God’s Word is true by quoting the Bible.

B. Results of Opposing Sources:

Consequently, none of the contradiction, beliefs, and theories which Liberals, critics, and some philosophers believe as factual,!provide enough adequate evidence to support their claim.

C. Results of Christians Sources:

Accordingly, Evangelicals declare that divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit gave the thoughts God intended for biblical authors to write. The biblical writers were anointed of God to write with freedom from normal tendencies of fallen man. Moreover, Christians explain that the variances claimed by critics, found in the Old Testament and New Testament, is the result of the Hebrew texts translated into the Greek language. Exact words in the Synoptics, John, and Acts are not a viable requirement. The Synoptic Gospels were written by different authors, in different circumstances, at different times, and intended for different people, in different parts of the world. Further, many of these errors do not exist in modem day translation of Hebrew and Greek texts. In addition, the results of this research affirms relevancy of Inerrancy and !inspiration. Also, Evangelical, Christians and others say the Bible is trustworthy and inspired for doctrines, truths, faith, and is truly the Word of God.

VI.   Conclusions and Recommendations.

A.   This research presents a new dimension for Inerrancy and Inspiration, as well as for Eternal Life through Christ Jesus.

Also, witnesses of new testimonies reveal a new conception that concerns the body of the dead in Christ which are active in heaven not in a state inactive awaiting for the first resurrection, see texts in Luke 23:42-43 KJV; Acts 14:19 KJV; 2 Corinthians 12:4 KJV; and 2 Corinthians 5:1 TLV.

B.   Also, this research strengthens Inerrancy and Inspiration in added theories relative to universal death which is acknowledged and recorded in Genesis 2:6 KJV; and Genesis 2:17 KJV; and Hebrews 9:27 KJV. This portion reveals a new conception, a goal in my topic research which is not presented in other books. Also ancient history supports the Bible. The Gospels are reliable teachings of Jesus Christ. Archaeology supports biblical accounts. The Bible has not changed since written. Evidence in moral changes of converted people, which their righteous attributes reveals, is proof that the divine authorship of the Bible is God’s Word.

PREFACE

The purpose and intention of the author in the preparation of this presentation is directed toward research of various sources currently available to determine the source population of acceptance and/or rejection of biblical truths concerning Inerrancy and Inspiration. And further to evaluate and analyze the arguments for and against these biblical topics as it may concern the beliefs of Christian faith which may be understood through intellectual situation of today’s demand.

Moreover, this writer does not intend to hesitate in stating his own conclusions that may be reached through analysis and evaluation that varies from the sources researched. However, this author does recognize and acknowledge a respectful reliance that may be placed on the input theories, concepts and beliefs written in many volumes of books.

This research makes no claim to be exhaustive. However, the source books researched have been determined helpful through which personal data is ascertained and believed beneficial for use through written material and knowledge of others.

About the author, it is believed that the writer, of this research project, Quinton B. Richmond, PhD. qualifies to prepare this book presentation on the subject theories of Inerrancy and Inspiration as related to Biblical Scripture. The author completed a Bachelor of Theology, and Bachelor of Art degree and attained second salutation in his graduating class from Southwestern Assembly of God University, Waxahachie, Texas. Also earned a Master of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Religious education at Trinity Theological Seminary, Newburgh, Indiana. In addition, received The Honor of Charter Membership in Trinity Theological Seminary Board of Visitors, bestowed in recognition of distinguished achievement in Christian Education and the Noble Ideals of Biblical Wisdom. Also, was awarded Distinction of Honor Membership into the National Omicron-Psi Honor Society as an Honor Student. Further, graduate studies were made at Liberty Baptist Theological Lynchburg, Virginia. In addition. Earned Graduate credit was attained in accounting at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio and Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.

This writer was ordained into the ministry with the General Council of The Assemblies of God, Springfield, Missouri and has served as pastor of churches at South Buie, Texas and New Carlisle, Ohio. In addition held tent revivals in Dallas, and Forth Worth, Texas.

Also, preached in Michigan churches and performed radio broadcast in Dallas, Texas. In addition, he founded a church in Dallas, Texas, which is a large church today. Moreover, the author has gained religious experience through lifetime learning through conferences and fellowship with pastors which ensured a foundation in religious matters.

And in the commercial world this writer was successful in business and owned a business operation in Public Accounting, Auditing and practiced before The Internal Revenue Service in Appellate and Tax Courts as a Certified Public Accountant in Ohio.

Further, in regional listings this author was entered into Who’s Who in the Midwest, 15th editions 1976-1977; Book of Honor American Biographical Institute, Second edition 1981; Two Thousand Notable Americans, first edition 1983; Who’s Who in the World. 7th edition 1984, 1985; and National Register’s Who’s Who in Executive and Professionals, 2002 Edition, also was issued a Certificate of Merit from The Small Business Association in 1977.

Likewise, worked at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio as an Air Force Contract Negotiator for large weapon systems. And completed negotiations with large commercial producers which ranged in price from forty million dollars ($40,000,000) and upward. During my course of work in negotiating contract prices, incumbent received letters commendation and appreciation from Brigadier General Robert T. Marsh, U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio; and from Major General, U.S. Andrews Air Force Base, Washington, D.C.; and from Brigadier General Theodore S. Coberly, U. S. Air force, Washington, D.C. for professional knowledge and competence which helped make possible the smooth launching of the development of vitally needed electronic warfare equipment.

Accordingly, the chosen subject Inerrancy and Inspiration was selected in order to broaden my knowledge and understanding of Christian believer’s concept as to why Inerrancy and Inspiration is a viable truth in God’s plan of salvation. This research is devoted to find out what concepts theories, and beliefs that already exist in this area. In addition, to read and understand the history of Jesus Christ’s teaching of the Way, the Truth, and to everlasting life to all who believe His Gospel. In addition, my purpose is with the intent to gain a new perspective and pursue efforts to add new thoughts and ideas and to strengthen prior ones in relation to the Kingdom of God which concerns the future End of Time. Furthermore, to pursue efforts in detailed reviews of other book data that contain ideas, concepts, and key theories of biblical opinions of God’s Eternal Life Plan. Then analyze and evaluate the sources and evidence used in their conclusion for the topic presented. Likewise, consider the values of their written source ideas, theories, concepts, practices that is useful for today’s religious culture. Similarly, there is the desire to pursue creative innovations efforts and set forth new theories never before provided on the subject of Inerrancy and Inspiration which may provide accepted meaning and strength for theories that already exist.

Likewise, the primary design of this research is: (1). to determine what claims are made by major sources in traditional work, (2). to determine if these prior sources actually report viable data, and evaluate and assess the validity of their arguments given for rejection/acceptance of Inerrancy and Inspiration, (4). to determine what ideas, theories, and practices are based on inductive and deductive practices.

PART I

THEORIES OF INERRANCY

AND INSPIRATION OF

BIBLICAL SCRIPTURES

CHAPTERS 1-5

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

I.   Background Status

A.   The goal of this research is to explore the truth of biblical doctrine and to evaluate, and analyze various sources to determine truths about inerrancy and inspiration of Scripture. The aim of this research is an effort to eliminate misunderstandings relative to truths of the Bible in light of source opposition. Also, to consider the denial of critics in regard to inspiration of the Word of God.

B.   This writer believes that the scriptures are the authoritative Word of God written by writers through inspiration from God. Further, to assess the claim by Agnostics, who deny that biblical authors’ received their instructions from God to write the Bible. Agnostics are considered atheists. My Jakarta Bernadette Maria is an Agnostic. Her stance is: I don’t Know if God exists or not, and I don’t care to find out. Agnostics and Gnostics have similarity beliefs. Marcion was the most famous Gnostic of the early church. The beliefs of Gnosticism were considered a Christian heresy to the early church. They believed there was an evil god of this world different from the God presented by Jesus Christ. St Augustine was a Gnostic, before conversion, whose writing underscored the struggle between spiritual and material knowledge of the mind.

C.   This author believe that the Scriptures are the written authority of God to provide divine guidance for salvation, grace, and faith for the conduct of human beings life on earth.

Moreover, it is acknowledged and rejected and no church creed or administrative council possesses equal or greater authority to rewrite the Bible to their own desires and theories.

D.   One of the critic’s primary opposition to biblical inerrancy is that the Bible was not written by God, but instead, Bible authors were the works of human being and not of God. Therefore, liberals believe that anything produced from humans would be errant. On the other hand, Evangelicals declare that through divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit of the Lord, God gave biblical writers departure from normal tendencies of fallen man to write the Scriptures and thereby, inerrancy of the Bible is achieved.

E.   Accordingly, as one of the controversial issues debated by Evangelicals, is claim that inerrancy establishes the original manuscripts of Scriptures, are without error. Limited inerrancy affirms Scripture is error free for matters of faith and doctrine.

II.   Terminology: Definitions of Key Terms.

A.   Biblical Inerrancy. This is the belief that the Bible is accurate and in essence is free of error for doctrinal truths. Some evangelical consider inerrancy and infallibility to mean the same thing. Most conservative Christians consider that the authors’ of the Bible were all God inspired and wrote books that are error-free. Although, none of the original manuscripts are available for comparison of the translated Bible but most of evangelicals hold that the translators have reproduced a Bible that equate to the original authoritative Word of God. Their conclusion is based on the comparison of many thousands of good copies which have been examined thousands of times with citations of Scripture in the writings of the early church fathers. Example: Harold Lindsell, Roger Nicole, and Millard Erickson believe the Bible is true in all it teaches and affirms.

B.   Biblical infallibility. It is the opinion of many who consider infallibility has a stronger meaning than inerrancy. They insist that inerrant means there are no errors, whereas infallible means there can be no errors. Modern day concepts state that the very nature of inspiration renders the Bible infallible because it is so written that God’s Word cannot deceive us, that is, it is inerrant and not false, or defective. Example: David Fuller, Stephen Davis, and William LaSor believe The Bible is inerrant in its doctrinal teachings.

1.   Some note that Evangelical scholars question beliefs in biblical infallibility as the best solution in believing biblical authority. What we need to acknowledge is that the books of Scripture firmly, faithfully, and without error teach us doctrinal truths through God’s Word which empowers salvation of souls, and moral discipline to humankind. Example: B. B. Warfield declares "The weight of evidence for the inspiration and consequent inerrancy of the Bible is so great that no amount of difficulty could overthrow it".

2.   Many conservative Christians believe that the Bible is free of error in all respects. And Christians of community churches teach the Bible is always right for the purpose of fulfilling the revelations of God. And God’s purposes and dynamic power provide grace, redemption, and eternal life to all who shall believe the Word of God. Example: Conservative Christians are those bodies of believers who view the virgin birth crucifixion, resurrection and ascension as divinity of Jesus Christ as well as the doctrine of sin, salvation, and eternal life through faith in the Bible’s inspiration. Edward J.Young and Louis Gaussen hold that belief in inerrancy is based on the doctrinal teaching of inspiration.

C.   Biblical Inspiration. This is the supernatural influence of the Holy Spirit upon Bible authors which rendered their writings as inspired record of God’s revelation, which ensured that what they wrote was actually the Word of God, and given of God. Therefore, the authenticity and credibility of the Bible means that the books of the Bible were written by the authors ascribed by them and the material contents written therein, are worthy of acceptance as inspired of God. Further, inspiration may be defined as the act of the Holy Spirit controlling the writers in truths and doctrine to communicate knowledge for others as directed through God. Therefore, inspiration is being in every case the breath of God in the expression of truths through human personality.

1.   Inspiration is not human genius, see footnote for what God said: ¹And no human genius we have heard of as a writer, other than God selected author, introduces their writing with the words, Thus saith the Lord, and because of these words we should believe that humans were inspired of God to write their books of biblical Scriptures.

2.   The word inspiration is not considered revelation per se, but can be defined as the act of the Holy Spirit controlling biblical writers to set forth God’s plan for salvation and provide a road map for everlasting life.

3.   Inspiration is not illumination for every individual through repentance of sins and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior and giver of redeeming grace, Christians, who receive the indwelling of the Holy Ghost are illuminated. However, they may be