The Biblical Basis Of Faith
The Bible claims to be the inspired Word of God.
• For Jews this means the Old Testament scriptures (Tanakh) -
Torah (The Law), Nebi'im (Prophets),
Ketubim (Psalms) and Histories
• Christians regard both Old and New Testaments as the Word of God.
The Bible's authority as the Word of God is based on -
• Its Unity in spite of its diveristy
The Bible consists of 66 different books written by different authors
over hundreds of years.
• Its Historical accuracy has been confirmed by archaeological discoveries over the centuries
• Its real & authentic portrayal of the human condition
The Bible does not paint an idealised picture of men and women. Instead it holds up a mirror to us, showing us how human beings, created in God's image, have sinned against God and their fellow human beings in the most shocking ways.
• Its supernatural authority is to be seen in its power to change the lives of individuals. The Word of God is living and active, sharper than a two-edged sword, able to divide the soul from the spirit, and judge the thoughts and intentions of the human heart (HEBREWS 4:12).
• The fulfilment of Biblical prophecies is far & away beyond the possibility of chance. Many of the Old Testament prophecies, including those referring to historical events. Others relating to the end times and are yet to be fulfilled.
• Jesus Christ (Yeshua ha Mashiach) quoted Old Testament scriptures affirming their inspiration as the WORD OF GOD. For example, MATTHEW 5:18; LUKE 16:17; JOHN 10:35. He also treated the stories of Noah and of Jonah as factual and relevant in talking of the Day of Judgement LUKE 17:26-27; MATTHEW 12:40-41; MATTHEW 16:1-4. And when undergoing testing by satan in the wilderness before the start of his ministry, Jesus answered satan's challenges by quoting Scripture as his authority: "It is written..." MATTHEW 3:1-14; LUKE 4:1-13
• Jesus' own divinely-inspired words form a major part of the New Testament
• Jesus claimed to speak only what God the Father gave him to say JOHN 5:19-20; 12:49-50
• Prophetic writings in Scripture are divinely-inspired words spoken out under the anointing of the Holy Spirit 2 PETER 1:20-21