About the Bible
The Bible stands as the most remarkable book in human history—not merely because of its literary merit or historical significance, but because it is the very Word of God. Unlike any other book ever written, Scripture claims divine authorship and bears the unmistakable marks of supernatural origin.
"For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."
2 Peter 1:21Divine Authorship
The Bible presents itself as God-breathed (theopneustos), written by human authors who were carried along by the Holy Spirit. This divine inspiration extends to the very words chosen, ensuring that what we have is exactly what God intended to communicate to mankind.
The Process of Inspiration
God used approximately 40 different human authors over a period of roughly 1,500 years to pen His Word. These men came from diverse backgrounds—shepherds, kings, fishermen, tax collectors, priests, and prophets—yet their writings demonstrate a remarkable unity of theme and purpose. This unity could only be achieved through divine superintendence.
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."
2 Timothy 3:16The Canon: 66 Books of Divine Truth
The Bible consists of 66 books, perfectly arranged in two testaments that complement and complete one another:
Old Testament (39 Books)
- The Law (5 books): Genesis through Deuteronomy
- History (12 books): Joshua through Esther
- Poetry (5 books): Job through Song of Solomon
- Major Prophets (5 books): Isaiah through Daniel
- Minor Prophets (12 books): Hosea through Malachi
The Old Testament reveals God's character, His law, His promises, and His preparation for the coming Messiah.
New Testament (27 Books)
- Gospels (4 books): Matthew through John
- History (1 book): Acts
- Paul's Epistles (13 books): Romans through Philemon
- General Epistles (8 books): Hebrews through Jude
- Prophecy (1 book): Revelation
The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of God's promises in Jesus Christ and provides instruction for the church.
"The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever."
Isaiah 40:8Miraculous Preservation Through History
Despite centuries of persecution, attempts at destruction, and challenges from critics, the Bible has been remarkably preserved. This preservation is not merely the result of human effort, but demonstrates God's sovereign protection of His Word.
Manuscript Evidence
The Bible boasts more manuscript evidence than any other ancient document. For the New Testament alone, we possess over 5,800 Greek manuscripts, with some fragments dating to within decades of the original writings. The Old Testament was meticulously preserved by Jewish scribes who developed elaborate systems to ensure accurate copying.
The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947 confirmed the remarkable accuracy of Old Testament transmission. Manuscripts over 1,000 years older than previously known texts showed virtually identical content to what we have today.
Surviving Opposition
Throughout history, powerful empires and individuals have attempted to destroy the Bible:
- Roman Emperor Diocletian ordered all Bibles burned (303 AD)
- Medieval authorities forbade common people from owning Bibles
- Communist regimes systematically destroyed Scriptures
- Modern secular movements continue to attack its authority
Yet the Bible not only survived but flourished, being translated into more languages and distributed more widely than any other book in history.
Why It's Called the "Eternal Word"
The Bible is called the "Eternal Word" because it transcends time, culture, and circumstance. Its truths are as relevant today as they were when first written, and they will remain so until the end of time.
Timeless Truth
Human wisdom changes with each generation, but God's Word remains constant. What was true about God's character, man's nature, sin's consequences, and salvation's provision 4,000 years ago remains unchanged today.
Universal Application
The Bible speaks to every culture, every generation, and every human condition. Its principles apply whether you live in ancient Jerusalem or modern New York, whether you're rich or poor, educated or simple.
"For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."
Psalm 119:89The Living Word
The Bible is not merely an ancient text to be studied academically—it is living and active, capable of transforming hearts and lives today just as it has throughout history.
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12This verse reveals four characteristics of God's Word:
- Quick (Living): It possesses divine life and energy
- Powerful (Active): It accomplishes God's purposes
- Sharp: It penetrates to the deepest parts of human nature
- Discerning: It reveals the true condition of the heart
Our Response to God's Word
Understanding what the Bible is—the very Word of God—should shape how we approach it. We should come with reverence, expectation, and submission, ready to be transformed by its truth.
"But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
Matthew 4:4Begin Your Journey
The Bible awaits your discovery. Whether you're reading it for the first time or the thousandth, God's eternal Word has something fresh to teach you. Open its pages with expectation, knowing that the same God who breathed these words into existence desires to speak to your heart today.
"Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." (John 17:17)