I Believe in God, but I'm Not So Sure About the BibleSample

You can trust the Bible historically.

Some Bible readers doubt its reliability as a historical account, thinking it should be read as a collection of myths and fables instead. For this brief study, let’s focus on the New Testament in particular. Given the uncommon life and teachings of Jesus, perhaps this skepticism is not surprising. However, the timing of the writing, the amount of detail, and the inclusion of undesirable and counter-productive elements all support the historical reliability of these texts.

Most New Testament books were either written by eye-witnesses to the events recorded or by someone who consulted closely with eye-witnesses. Either way, the writing of these books and letters so soon after the events took place makes it extremely unlikely that facts were significantly distorted or fabricated. It would have been too easy to confirm or refute them.

Scholars have noted that the Biblical accounts include more detailed information than myths and legends composed around the same time. Luke intentionally explains that he wrote his account of events to confirm what Theophilus had been taught. The specific details were necessary to build confidence and certainty in the truth of the events.

The gospels also include many undesirable and counter-productive elements that ultimately contribute to the credibility of the accounts. The disciple Peter who wrote about his experience witnessing Jesus’ transfiguration in 2 Peter is the same disciple recorded as disowning Jesus in Luke 22. If the early church were looking to inspire faith through a hero-like legend, there would have been no need for this story of human failure.

As you read 2 Peter 1:16-21, what do you notice about Peter’s perspective on the validity of Old Testament scripture (the prophets)? How do the things he has witnessed relate to that Scripture?

Ask Yourself:

How can trusting the Bible historically impact your reading and understanding of Scripture? In what ways can it make following Scripture easier? How can it make it more challenging?

Pause to Pray:

Father God, I am so thankful for the opportunity to read your Word and learn about your presence and purpose throughout history. I sometimes find it hard to believe __________________. Help me to dig deeper into all that you want to teach me.

Take a Next Step:

Read Luke 24:1-12. Note two or three details you have not noticed before. Take a little time to look up a commentary or read study notes related to this passage to gain more insight into the historical context or significance of those details.