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Some Final Thoughts On Biblical Inspiration

By Dean Kelly

We noted two ideas about inspiration last week – 1) Inspired Like Shakespeare and 2) Thought Inspiration. We rejected both based on scripture. This week we conclude the examination by looking at two other ideas about inspiration.

3. Mechanical Inspiration: This is the idea that the writers were like a keypad or typewriter that God used. The problem with this concept is that God was able to use the personality and knowledge of the individual and still make sure every word is His. You can tell the difference in personality between writers, yet every word is of God. Remember that Jesus said to the Apostles that God would guide them into all truth and bring all things to their remembrance (John 16:13; 14:26). Mechanical Inspiration is not an accurate view of biblical inspiration.

4. Plenary, Verbal Inspiration: “Plenary” means “full, complete, entire, absolute, unqualified” (Dictionary.com). The concept is that all the scriptures are from God. Paul told Timothy that “all Scripture is given by inspiration of God” (2 Timothy 3:16). Peter calls Paul’s writings “scripture” (2 Peter 3:15-16). Paul never said that any of his writings were not from God, as some claim. In 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 Paul does not disclaim the inspiration of his writings, he simply points out what Jesus addressed directly while on earth and what was revealed to him by inspiration.

“Verbal” means that every word is there with the approval of God and is authoritative. None are simply added by the writer (1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Peter 1:20-21). It is indeed the Word of God.

The Bible is complete and inerrant. It does not contradict itself, despite the objections of skeptics who claim that it does. Every objection can be reasonably and logically answered.

The Bible is the only guide for religion. It takes us to the cross, where we can come in obedient faith based on reliable evidence (Romans 10:17). Let’s meet at the cross!

Dean Kelly is minister at Highland Home Church of Christ.