The Bible
by Pat McIntosh
The Bible is an amazing book. In its 2000 years of existence an estimated six billion copies have
been sold. The whole Bible (OT and NT) has been translated into 349 languages. 2123 languages have had at least one book of the Bible translated into that language. The English Bible averages 25 million sales per year.
But, these figures are not what make the Bible an amazing book. There are many books that, at
some time in their existence, top best-seller lists. That which makes the Bible an amazing book is
what sets it apart from every other book ever written. I am referring to the fact that it is inspired.
This means that it was not produced by man; rather, it is the very “breath” of God (2 Tim. 3:16-
17). In writing to Timothy Paul used the word “theopneustos”, which is translated as “inspired”
in English translations. Literally the word means “God-breathed.”
If a book claims to be inspired, as the Bible does, one might expect to be able to find proof of
such a claim. The Bible produces an abundance of such proofs. These include prophecy,
scientific foreknowledge and the fact that information is provided about God that could only
come from God Himself (His character, attributes, etc.).
We have only two alternatives as to the source of the information provided in this amazing book.
It is either a product of man or it comes from the mind of God. The claims and the evidence
provided show the latter to be the case. It is as Paul claimed…”inspired of God.”
May we truly realize the value of this amazing book. It was designed to do much more than sit
on a shelf or occupy space on a coffee table. It was designed to be read, lived and taught to
others.
Sunday A.M. Sermon – What Does the Bible Say About Inspiration?
- Scientific Foreknowledge – Psa. 8:8; Gen. 17:12; Lev. 18:5
- The Power of Prophecy – Psa. 22:1-18; Matt. 27:35; Isa. 44:28; 2 Thes. 2:3-4
- Traits of God – 1 Jno. 4:8-16; Lk. 12:7; Heb. 4:13; 5:8-9; 1 Pet. 1:13-19
- Moral Standard Portrayed – Matt. 5:38-48; 19:1-9; 18:21-22
- Fulfills Man’s Needs – Titus 3:3-6; Job 19:26-27; 1 Thes. 1:6-9
Sunday P.M. Sermon – Four Things Necessary to Help us Live for the Lord (Zech. 1:2-6)