The Holy Bible is the authoritative Word of God. Its original writing is inspired, infallible, and inerrant as originally given. God verbally inspired it, and it is a complete revelation of His will for the salvation of men. It constitutes the divine and only rule of Christian faith and practice.
The Holy Bible is unlike any other book in history. It is the authoritative Word of God, inspired by Him and given to humanity as a perfect revelation of His will. Christians believe that the Bible is not just a collection of ancient writings or moral teachings but is, in its essence, God’s message to the world. It stands as the complete and final authority in matters of faith, practice, and salvation.
The Bible: Inspired, Infallible, and Inerrant
The Bible, as originally written, is inspired by God, meaning that it was composed under the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul states in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed.” This means that every word, from Genesis to Revelation, was directed by God Himself, ensuring that the writers recorded exactly what He wanted to communicate. Though human authors penned the Bible, its ultimate source is divine.
Because the Bible is inspired by God, it is also infallible and inerrant in its original form. To say the Bible is infallible means that it cannot fail in its purpose—its message is always true and trustworthy. It is incapable of error because God, who cannot lie, is its author (Titus 1:2). The term “inerrant” means that the Bible is free from mistakes or contradictions. Every historical fact, prophecy, and doctrine it contains is accurate and reliable.
The inspiration, infallibility, and inerrancy of the Bible give Christians confidence that they can trust its teachings. Whether the Bible speaks about the nature of God, the path to salvation, or the principles for living, its words are true and applicable for every generation.
God’s Revelation of His Will
The Bible serves as the complete revelation of God’s will for the salvation of humanity. Throughout its pages, the Bible reveals the heart of God, His plan for redeeming fallen mankind, and His ultimate purpose for creation. From the Old Testament, which prophesies the coming of a Savior, to the New Testament, which fulfills these promises in the person of Jesus Christ, the Bible tells a unified story of God’s redemptive work.
In the Bible, God shows us who He is—holy, loving, and just. He reveals His character, His desires, and His expectations for how we should live. Most importantly, the Bible explains the path to salvation. As Romans 1:16 declares, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” Through its teachings, we learn that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again, offering us eternal life.
This revelation is not partial or incomplete. The Bible is sufficient; it contains everything we need to know about God’s plan for saving us and living a life that pleases Him. There are no new revelations or books outside of Scripture that can add to or replace its authority.
The Divine Rule of Christian Faith and Practice
For Christians, the Bible is more than just a historical document; it is the divine and only rule of faith and practice. It provides a blueprint for living, teaching believers how to follow God, love others, and grow in holiness. As Psalm 119:105 beautifully puts it, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” In a world filled with confusion and competing ideas, the Bible offers clarity, wisdom, and direction.
Because the Bible is authoritative, Christians submit to its teachings in every area of life. It shapes our beliefs, our behavior, and our worldview. As a guide to Christian faith, the Bible teaches fundamental doctrines such as the Trinity, salvation through Christ alone, and the return of Christ. As a guide to practice, it instructs us on how to live out our faith in practical ways—through prayer, worship, service, and love for others.
Scripture also equips believers to stand firm in their faith, offering protection against false teachings and moral relativism. It gives us an unshakable foundation, reminding us of God’s promises and His unchanging truth.
The Bible’s Role in Christian Discipleship
Reading, studying, and applying the Bible is an essential part of Christian discipleship. Jesus, during His ministry, emphasized the importance of Scripture, saying in Matthew 4:4, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” His words remind us that just as physical food sustains our bodies, the Bible nourishes our souls. To grow in our relationship with God, we must engage with His Word regularly.
Through the Bible, God speaks to us today. When we read its pages, we are not merely encountering ancient writings but hearing the living voice of God. It convicts us of sin, encourages us in trials, and strengthens us for the journey of faith. The Bible teaches us how to follow Jesus, equipping us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:17).
Conclusion
The Holy Bible is not just a book—it is the authoritative, inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word of God. It reveals God’s will for the salvation of mankind and stands as the final rule for Christian faith and practice. In its pages, we encounter the God who created us, loves us, and has a plan for our lives. By studying the Bible and living according to its teachings, we can walk in the truth, experience God’s presence, and fulfill our purpose in His kingdom.
As we open the Bible, may we approach it with reverence and a desire to know the God who speaks through it. It is a treasure, a guide, and a source of life—leading us to the heart of our Creator and showing us the way to salvation through Jesus Christ.
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