Foundation Study
The Bible
What do these verses say about the Bible?
1. 2 Timothy 3:15-17
Notes
The Bible holds the essential information for salvation.
While creation reveals God's glory, power, existence, and goodness, it doesn't provide specific instructions for salvation (Psalm 19:1-6, Romans 1:18-20, Acts 14:17). This knowledge about God from creation is termed general revelation. On the other hand, Scripture, known as special revelation, is the exclusive source containing the knowledge necessary for a person to establish a right relationship with God. It is through special revelation that we learn about our need for salvation and how to attain it.
Resource: What Happens To Those Who Never Hear?
While creation reveals God's glory, power, existence, and goodness, it doesn't provide specific instructions for salvation (Psalm 19:1-6, Romans 1:18-20, Acts 14:17). This knowledge about God from creation is termed general revelation. On the other hand, Scripture, known as special revelation, is the exclusive source containing the knowledge necessary for a person to establish a right relationship with God. It is through special revelation that we learn about our need for salvation and how to attain it.
Resource: What Happens To Those Who Never Hear?
The Bible is authored by God.
The term 'inspired' means "originating from." It indicates that the content of the Scripture originated from God and was God-breathed. A.D. Litfin states, “God’s words were given through men, by the Holy Spirit, so that their writings are without error.”1 Author Mark Taylor adds, “Scripture is true, reliable, authoritative, permanent and powerful because it comes from God himself.”2 God authored the content of the Scripture, and man recorded it.
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The most immediate application of the term 'Scripture' in 2 Timothy 3:16, is the Old Testament. However, the broader application applies to the entire Bible. The inspiration of the New Testament is confirmed by Peter in 2 Peter 3:16, where he refers to Paul's writings as Scripture (which means divine in origin), and by Paul in 1 Timothy 5:18, where he cites the Old Testament as New Testament writings. We see again, confirmation by John in Revelation 1:2 where he refers to the New Testament as the Word of God. Author Paul Enns says, "The New Testament Scriptures are equally inspired with the Old Testament Scriptures.3
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The Bible was written to reveal who God is, who we are, and how we can be redeemed by God's grace through God's Son for God's glory. — David Platt |
The Bible is...
- Inspired. Meaning it originated from God. 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:16, 20-21
- Inerrant. Meaning it is without error. Psalm 18:30, 19:7, 119:160
- Infallible. Meaning it is incapable of error. Hebrews 6:18, Numbers 23:19, Matthew 5:48, Titus 1:2
- Verbal plenary. Meaning the above applies to every word. Proverbs 30:5
The Bible is reliable, trustworthy, and authoritative in all matters it addresses.
The Bible is incredibly practical.
The Holy Spirit uses the words of Scripture to accomplish the following:
- Inform us about what is right; righteousness. Psalm 19:7, 119:104-105
- Expose our disobedience; rebellion. Hebrews 4:12-13; 1 Corinthians 10:11
- Change our wrongdoing; repentance. Proverbs 15:31
- Show us how to live again for God; restoration. Psalm 119:9, 11
1. A. Duane Litfin, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament, John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck (Ed.), (Spokane: Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on 2 Timothy 3:15-17
2. Mark Taylor, The NLT Study Bible, (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on 2 Timothy 3:15-17
3. Paul Enns, The Moody Handbook of Theology (Chicago: Moody, 1989), 128
2. Mark Taylor, The NLT Study Bible, (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on 2 Timothy 3:15-17
3. Paul Enns, The Moody Handbook of Theology (Chicago: Moody, 1989), 128
2. 2 Peter 1:16, 20-21
notes
The Bible contains the true words about God.
The Bible is not a collection of human musings about a divine being but contains the true words about God. It is the actual word of God, given to men about Himself. As stated in 1 Thessalonians 2:13, it is provided through a few men for all people and for all time. Thomas Constable emphasizes that the gospel is not a message humans would invent if they could, nor is it a message they could invent if they would.1 According to Dane Ortlund, the Bible serves as a continuous effort to deconstruct our natural vision of who God truly is.2
The Bible is authored by the Spirit of God.
In 2 Peter 2:21, the term 'moved' is likened to the wind filling the sail of a boat. This illustrates how the Holy Spirit filled the authors of Scripture, enabling them to speak and write in alignment with God's intention while actively engaging in the process. As explained by MacArthur, the Holy Spirit superintended the authors, allowing them to use their unique personalities, thought processes, and vocabulary to compose and record the exact words God wanted written, without error.3
The Bible is not a collection of human musings about a divine being but contains the true words about God. It is the actual word of God, given to men about Himself. As stated in 1 Thessalonians 2:13, it is provided through a few men for all people and for all time. Thomas Constable emphasizes that the gospel is not a message humans would invent if they could, nor is it a message they could invent if they would.1 According to Dane Ortlund, the Bible serves as a continuous effort to deconstruct our natural vision of who God truly is.2
The Bible is authored by the Spirit of God.
In 2 Peter 2:21, the term 'moved' is likened to the wind filling the sail of a boat. This illustrates how the Holy Spirit filled the authors of Scripture, enabling them to speak and write in alignment with God's intention while actively engaging in the process. As explained by MacArthur, the Holy Spirit superintended the authors, allowing them to use their unique personalities, thought processes, and vocabulary to compose and record the exact words God wanted written, without error.3
- Thomas Constable, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament (Walvoord and Zuck (Ed.), (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on 1 Thessalonians 2:13
- Dane Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly (Wheaton: Crossway, 2020) 147 Kindle
- John MacArthur, MacArthur Study Bible Notes (ESV) (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.10.0, © 1998-2021) Notes on 2 Peter 2:21
3. Revelation 22:18-19
notes
The Bible is complete.
The content of Scripture unfolded progressively until its completion, as indicated in Luke 16:16. Presently, the content of Scripture is finalized, and the canon is closed. There is no room for additional revelation or new prophecy in this age. According to Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, and Proverbs 30:6, divine punishment and eternal judgment await those who tamper with God's revelation. This includes individuals making false claims to speak on behalf of God, as stated in Jeremiah 14:14, 23:16, 28:15, and 29:31. Ryrie emphasizes that the New Testament holds greater priority as the source of doctrine, considering the Old Testament revelation as preparatory and partial, while New Testament revelation is climactic and complete.1
Resource: View The Canon of Scripture.
The content of Scripture unfolded progressively until its completion, as indicated in Luke 16:16. Presently, the content of Scripture is finalized, and the canon is closed. There is no room for additional revelation or new prophecy in this age. According to Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, and Proverbs 30:6, divine punishment and eternal judgment await those who tamper with God's revelation. This includes individuals making false claims to speak on behalf of God, as stated in Jeremiah 14:14, 23:16, 28:15, and 29:31. Ryrie emphasizes that the New Testament holds greater priority as the source of doctrine, considering the Old Testament revelation as preparatory and partial, while New Testament revelation is climactic and complete.1
Resource: View The Canon of Scripture.
- Charles C. Ryrie, Basic Theology: A Popular, Systematic Guide to Understanding Biblical Truth, (Chicago: Moody, 1999), 16, Kindle
4. John 17:17
notes
The Bible serves as a tool for spiritual maturity.
The term 'sanctify,' signifying "to set apart," conveys notions of holiness and maturity. Scripture plays a crucial role in the journey of spiritual growth. As believers allow the Holy Spirit to use the Scriptures to fill their hearts, they experience increased spiritual growth. This growth, in turn, leads individuals to become more engaged in the plans and purposes of God, aligning with the concepts found in 1 Thessalonians 2:13 and Psalm 19:7.
The Bible is truth.
It unequivocally asserts its own truthfulness. Consequently, anything conflicting with the Bible is deemed false. Writings about God that diverge from Scripture are, by logical deduction, considered untrue. This truth claim of the Bible addresses the timeless inquiry posed by Pilate in John 18:38: "What is truth?" Richard Wurmbrand encapsulates this perspective by stating, “God is the truth... And the Bible is the truth about the truth,” drawing support from passages such as 2 Samuel 7:28, Psalm 119:43, 151, 160, and Revelation 19:9, 21:5, 22:6.
The term 'sanctify,' signifying "to set apart," conveys notions of holiness and maturity. Scripture plays a crucial role in the journey of spiritual growth. As believers allow the Holy Spirit to use the Scriptures to fill their hearts, they experience increased spiritual growth. This growth, in turn, leads individuals to become more engaged in the plans and purposes of God, aligning with the concepts found in 1 Thessalonians 2:13 and Psalm 19:7.
The Bible is truth.
It unequivocally asserts its own truthfulness. Consequently, anything conflicting with the Bible is deemed false. Writings about God that diverge from Scripture are, by logical deduction, considered untrue. This truth claim of the Bible addresses the timeless inquiry posed by Pilate in John 18:38: "What is truth?" Richard Wurmbrand encapsulates this perspective by stating, “God is the truth... And the Bible is the truth about the truth,” drawing support from passages such as 2 Samuel 7:28, Psalm 119:43, 151, 160, and Revelation 19:9, 21:5, 22:6.
- Richard Wurmbrandt, Tortured for Christ (Bartlesville: Living Sacrifice, 1998) Location 1285, Kindle
5. Matthew 4:4
notes
The Bible is essential.
The Bible is deemed indispensable, akin to consuming physical food for spiritual well-being. Just as physical health relies on the intake of food, spiritual health hinges on engaging with the Scriptures. A deficiency in spiritual nourishment weakens one's spiritual vitality, mirroring how a lack of physical food leads to physical weakness. The Word of God serves as a source of nourishment through reading, meditation, and application, as highlighted in passages such as Deuteronomy 8:3, 32:47, Joshua 1:8, and Matthew 22:29.
The Bible is deemed indispensable, akin to consuming physical food for spiritual well-being. Just as physical health relies on the intake of food, spiritual health hinges on engaging with the Scriptures. A deficiency in spiritual nourishment weakens one's spiritual vitality, mirroring how a lack of physical food leads to physical weakness. The Word of God serves as a source of nourishment through reading, meditation, and application, as highlighted in passages such as Deuteronomy 8:3, 32:47, Joshua 1:8, and Matthew 22:29.
6. Hebrews 4:12
notes
The Bible is alive.
The Bible is dynamic, transcending its age, as the voice of God resonates through its pages. It serves as a living document, actively convicting, converting, counseling, encouraging, and enlightening. Through the Scripture, God communicates with profound impact, delving into our innermost thoughts, revealing genuine attitudes, surfacing deep feelings, and addressing crucial needs. Zane Hodges emphasizes the Bible's role in discerning and exposing the intricate mix of spiritual and human motivations within the inner life of a Christian (1 Corinthians 2:11-13; Luke 24:32; Romans 1:16).
The Bible is dynamic, transcending its age, as the voice of God resonates through its pages. It serves as a living document, actively convicting, converting, counseling, encouraging, and enlightening. Through the Scripture, God communicates with profound impact, delving into our innermost thoughts, revealing genuine attitudes, surfacing deep feelings, and addressing crucial needs. Zane Hodges emphasizes the Bible's role in discerning and exposing the intricate mix of spiritual and human motivations within the inner life of a Christian (1 Corinthians 2:11-13; Luke 24:32; Romans 1:16).
- Zane Hodges, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament (Walvoord and Zuck (Ed.), (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on Hebrews 4:12
7. Psalm 19:7-8
notes
The Bible is a blessing.
The Bible brings refreshment, enlightenment, and guidance. It instills hope, imparts joy, and offers wisdom, brightening the journey of life. A.P. Ross captures the transformative impact, noting that joy and guidance fill the soul of those who meditate on and follow God's commands (Romans 15:4; Psalm 119:14, 98–100, 105).
A poignant analogy compares our love for the Bible to a bride cherishing her husband's letters, valuing them not merely for the paper they are but for the person who speaks through them.
Resource: Lausanne #6
The Bible brings refreshment, enlightenment, and guidance. It instills hope, imparts joy, and offers wisdom, brightening the journey of life. A.P. Ross captures the transformative impact, noting that joy and guidance fill the soul of those who meditate on and follow God's commands (Romans 15:4; Psalm 119:14, 98–100, 105).
A poignant analogy compares our love for the Bible to a bride cherishing her husband's letters, valuing them not merely for the paper they are but for the person who speaks through them.
Resource: Lausanne #6
- Allen P. Ross, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament (Walvoord and Zuck (Ed.), (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on Psalm 19:7-8
8. Romans 1:16
notes
The Bible is powerful.
The Bible is profoundly powerful, with the very term "dynamite" finding its roots in the Greek word for power. The message within, centered on the substitutional death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, holds the transformative power to convert anyone placing their trust in it. The words of Scripture, serve as a catalyst for radical character transformation and a redirection of one's eternal destiny (James 1:21; 1 Corinthians 1:18, 1:24; Jeremiah 23:29). Furthermore, the act of memorizing Scripture is identified as a means to gain victory over sin, as articulated in Psalm 119:11.
The Bible is profoundly powerful, with the very term "dynamite" finding its roots in the Greek word for power. The message within, centered on the substitutional death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, holds the transformative power to convert anyone placing their trust in it. The words of Scripture, serve as a catalyst for radical character transformation and a redirection of one's eternal destiny (James 1:21; 1 Corinthians 1:18, 1:24; Jeremiah 23:29). Furthermore, the act of memorizing Scripture is identified as a means to gain victory over sin, as articulated in Psalm 119:11.
9. 1 Corinthians 10:11
notes
The Bible is a warning.
The Bible functions as a warning, using accounts of God's judgment to alert those who might follow the path of disobedience. Scripture portrays God as both severe and kind, emphasizing the importance of heeding His guidance (Romans 11:22). As articulated by author David Lowery, the same God who disciplined in the past is capable of doing so again (Hebrews 10:31; 1 Corinthians 10:6, 11:27-29; Acts 5:1–11; Psalm 119:67, 71).
The Bible functions as a warning, using accounts of God's judgment to alert those who might follow the path of disobedience. Scripture portrays God as both severe and kind, emphasizing the importance of heeding His guidance (Romans 11:22). As articulated by author David Lowery, the same God who disciplined in the past is capable of doing so again (Hebrews 10:31; 1 Corinthians 10:6, 11:27-29; Acts 5:1–11; Psalm 119:67, 71).
- David L. Lowery, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament (Walvoord and Zuck (Ed.), (Olive Tree Bible Software, Version 6.5.3 © 1998-2019.) Notes on 1 Corinthians 10:11.
10. James 1:22
notes
The Bible is meant to be obeyed.
The Bible is intended for practical application, emphasizing that it's not merely for reading but for obeying. The crucial aspect is applying the truths learned, reflecting a desire for readers who are both knowledgeable and responsive to God's Word. Matthew 7:24–27, 12:50, 28:20; Luke 6:46; James 2:17, 4:17
The Bible is intended for practical application, emphasizing that it's not merely for reading but for obeying. The crucial aspect is applying the truths learned, reflecting a desire for readers who are both knowledgeable and responsive to God's Word. Matthew 7:24–27, 12:50, 28:20; Luke 6:46; James 2:17, 4:17
11. Video Resources
notes
- What is the Bible? (5:47) Bible Project
- The Story of the Bible (5:37) Bible Project
- Literary Styles in the Bible (5:27) Bible Project
- Ancient Jewish Meditation Literature (4:30) Bible Project
- Plot in Biblical Narrative (5:12) Bible Project
- Character in Biblical Narrative (5:27) Bible Project
- Setting in Biblical Narrative (5:45) Bible Project
- Design Patterns in Biblical Narrative (6:07) Bible Project
- The Art of Biblical Poetry (5:22) Bible Project
- Metaphor in Biblical Poetry (5:11) Bible Project
- The Book of Psalms (5:30) Bible Project
- The Prophets (5:18) Bible Project
- Biblical Law (6:18) Bible Project
- The Books of Solomon (5:27) Bible Project
- The Gospel (5:46) Bible Project
- Parables of Jesus (5:42) Bible Project
- New Testament Letters: Historical Context (5:20) Bible Project
- New Testament Letters: Literary Context (5:30) Bible Project
- How to Read The Bible: Apocalyptic Literature (6:57) Bible Project
- Can we trust the 66 books of the Bible? (1:32) John Piper
- The Authority of Scripture (1:48) Tim Keller
- What It Means The Bible Is Self-Authenticating. (3:05) The Gospel Coalition
- Is The Bible Truly God’s Word? (4:25) Got Questions?
- Inerrant vs Infallible (1:52) John MacArthur
- How Did We Get The Bible (3:30) 3 Minute Theology
- Why you can rely on the canon, (8:43) the Gospel Coalition
- The Story of the Bible in a nutshell, (4:23) David Platt
- How is the Bible divinely inspired? (3:30) Three Minute Theology
- What is inerrancy? (3:30) Three Minute Theology
- What is divine revelation? (3:30) Three Minute Theology
- Is the Bible infallible? (3:15) Dr. Brown
- No, the Church Didn’t Create the Bible (5:59) The Gospel Coalition
- What does “Inspiration” mean in 2 Timothy 3:16 (4:36) Ligonier Ministries?
- Why is the Bible reliable? (5:37) Tim Keller, The Veritas Forum
- Carson and Kruger, Persistent Myths about the New Testament, (6:57) The Gospel Coalition
- Miguel Nunez on Whether We Can Trust the Bible. (5:27) the Gospel Coalition
- What is the purpose of the Bible? (3:09) David Platt
- Why is it so important to believe in biblical inerrancy? (6:03) Got Questions
- Top Three Reasons the Bible is Reliable (3:36) J. Warner, Wallace
- Why Should I Believe The Bible? (7:11) Got Questions
Which Scripture was the most meaningful to you? Explain.