Is The Bible Dependable?

II Peter 1:19-21 tells us, “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.   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.” 

Clearly we can trust what God has said.  Unfortunately, we do not have the original manuscripts of any of the scriptures.  How can we be sure what we know as the scriptures teach the same things as the original manuscripts say?  Other ancient manuscripts emerge occasionally, so how are we to know they are not also part of scripture.  To answer these questions, we will start with some historical information about when and where it was given.  While Bishop Ussher dated the Exodus in 1491 BC, the Biblical record and Archaeological evidence indicate it was nearly two hundred years earlier.  The evidence indicates that all of Genesis, and part of Exodus was written before that time. 

The Old Testament was written over a long period of time.  Contrary to tradition, there is evidence the most of the first five books were not written by Moses, although they may have been compiled in his day.  Several different writing styles are found in in these books, indicating They were written by several writers at various times in history.  The last part of Deuteronomy could not have been written by Moses, as it took place after his death. 

Historical records from Babylon indicate that the book of Daniel was written between about 565 and 495 BC.  Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi were all written after Daniel’s day, with Malachi probably being written about 175 BC, or about the time of the Maccabees.  During the same period, the Old Testament was translated into the Greek language, and the Greek version became known as the Septuagint.  Later versions of the Septuagint contain 14 Apocryphal books not found in the earliest Greek or Hebrew manuscripts.  They appear to have been adopted by various Rabbinical counsels and were not accepted by all Jewish scholars or included in many of the later Hebrew manuscripts.

Traditionally we have been taught that the New Testament was written in Greek.  Papias, writing about 90 Ad quoted John as saying Matthew and John were originally written in Hebrew, as was James, by the authors they are named after, before 37 AD.  Mark and Luke were written later, around  45-53 AD, and were probably in Greek to make them readily available to the Gentile Christians as the church spread.  One fragment of the book of mark dates back to that time period, but cannot be proven to be part fo the original document.  Around 70-75 AD, Matthew, John and James were also translated into Greek.  John wrote the Revelation in Greek about 95 AD. 

The scriptures were translate into various local languages, with a complete Latin version appearing around 200 BC, and the Latin Vulgate appearing about 350 AD. The Greek Codex Sinaiaticus and Codex Vaticanus copies of the complete New Testament date from about the same time.  Today about 5800 Greek manuscripts or portions of Greek manuscripts exist along with over 10,000 Latin ones.  In addition, there are about 25,000 manuscripts in almost five hundred other languages.    While some manuscripts contain only a few words, scholars claim the average is nearly 450 hand written pages.  In addition, almost the entire New Testament Text can be found in writings of the early church fathers. 

The differences between those ancient manuscripts and the King James Version are very small.  The codex Sinaiaticus, is the most complete manuscript of the New Testament ever found.  There are only eight places where it differs materially from the King James Bible, The most important, in Matthew 16 leaves out 8 verses.  It appears the eight verses were simply overlooked.  The other differences involve only a verse or a single phrase from a verse.  With the exception of the Apocrypha, studies indicate that the differences between all the manuscripts amount to less than one percent of the whole, and that most of those are considered unviable because they only appear in one or two manuscripts.  Most of the other differences are the result of differences between languages or spelling mistakes. 

In 1453 AD, Constantinople fell and the Greek manuscripts held there became available for the first time since it had been conquered by the Muslim forces.  In 1516 AD, Erasmus completed the Textus Receptus based on eight of those Greek manuscripts.  Wycliffe had completed his English New Testament nearly a hundred years before based on different manuscripts.  The Tyndale and Coverdale versions were based on the Textus Receptus but the King James Version of 1611 was based on those earlier texts but drew heavily on Tyndale and Coverdale’s .translations.  Certain verses in the King James are not found in the Textus Receptus but are found in the Wescot- Hort text.  They are also found in many of the earlier texts.  While quality of translation varies among different modern versions, only a few have been deliberately changed

There are no records of other manuscripts as part of scripture in the early writings of the church fathers, and many contain factual errors or other mistakes that indicate they were not written at the time or by the author they claim to have been written by.  They are not considered part of scripture. 

All the evidence indicates the Bible teaches essentially the same thing as the original manuscripts by the various authors and can be trusted as God’s Word.  .    Perhaps the most important thing is that the church all use the same version during services to avoid confusion, because as I Corinthians 14:33 tells us, “…God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints…”

Understanding Prophecy VII

As we have gone through Daniel 11,it has been apparent that various portions of the prophecy refer to different periods in history.  In fact, Daniel 11 has already given us a general outline of history from about 500 BC until the time the Anti-Christ assumes power during the Tribulation period.  As we have seen, some of those prophecies have already been fulfilled, some are in the process of being fulfilled, and others are to be fulfilled in the future.  The remainder of Daniel 11 describes the actions of the Anti-Christ during the last three and a half years of the Tribulation. 

Many other prophecies refer to a single time period or to single region of the world.  By taking time to compare the different prophecies, we can get a better idea of where they fit into the overall picture and how they relate to us.  For example, Matthew 24:1-15 refers to the same period we have looked at in Daniel 11, while Matthew 24:16-31 refers to the Tribulation period itself.  Revelation 2:1-3:22 is devoted to the church age, from the time of the Apostles to the start of the Tribulation.  Revelation 4:1-19:31 primarily details the events during the tribulation period, while Revelation 20:1-4 talks about the Millennial Period and the rest of the book talks about the new earth and the eternal kingdom. 

Many of Isaiah’s prophecies relate to different countries, telling what will happen to them in particular period, while others describe the coming of Christ, or what things will be like during the Millennium.  By taking the time to learn who the prophecies apply to, and when they are to happen, we learn a great deal about what to expect in different situations and can prepare accordingly.

Prophecy makes up about one fourth of the entire Bible, and since all Scripture is from God and has value to us as II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, it is crucial to take the time to understand what those prophecies teach us.  Sadly, many prophets and prophecy teachers have interpreted the prophecies to support and advance their own agenda with little or no concern for whether they are interpreting it properly, depending on people ignorance to allow them to get by with their false interpretations. 

Many teachers use prophecy and fear of the Lord’s return to get people to make professions of faith in Christ.  We need to remember that as Romans 10:17 tells us, “…faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”  Real faith will only come from what God has said, not a human interpretation, and as 1 John 2:21 tells us, “…no lie is of the truth.”  Exciting as the false interpretations may be, they actually prevent people from developing true faith. 

By applying the principles we have learned, we can get an accurate understanding of What God desires us to know, but it will require us to spend the time studying for ourselves rather than simply accepting what others tell us.  In the process, we are very likely to find that some of the things we have been taught are incorrect and need to be changed.  

Understanding Prophecy VI

We can be sure of the details of the prophecies that have already taken place, because we see many details that were not included in the prophecy.  Similarly, we can have a pretty clear understanding of the prophecies that are happening around us, such as the Islamic efforts to take over other countries.  As we look into the future, however, we have only the prophecies themselves to base our understanding on.  While we know certain events will happen, we have only limited understanding of the events leading up to them or the exact details of those events.  A detailed understanding will not be possible until we see some of those events unfold. 

Even inspired prophets such as Isaiah, Ezekiel or Daniel had limited understanding of the prophecies they made as we see in Matthew 13:16-17.  “But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.  For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.”  While we have a general and in some cases quite detailed outline we do not know everything about what it will be like.  Let’s look at Daniel 11 again for an example.

“He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side, neither be for him.  After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him.  Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found.” (Daniel 11:17-19)

As we have already seen, efforts by Islamic forces to take over other countries will lead to a major war involving an alliance of many nations in an effort to limit their aggression, but it is unclear whether the alliance will be one of several already in existence, such as the UN, NATO, the EU, or some completely new alliance that does not yet exist.    Daniel tells us, that whatever alliance this may be will conquer the Middle East and force Israel to accept a treaty they do not want. 

Once the Middle East has been subjugated, the alliance will turn its attention to the islands.  Since most of the world’s islands lie off the coast of Asia, including those of japan, Indonesia, Micronesia, etc. it is probable that they will turn to that region, successfully conquering some of them.   A single nation, possibly China, will stand against them, and decimate their army, and cause the alliance to collapse. 

The collapse of the alliance will result in union of nations to protect themselves, according to Daniel 11:20.  “Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle.”  Their efforts to raise money for a strong government will result in an economic collapse, just as efforts to rebuild countries after a war have caused economic collapse in the past.  Throughout history, such economic collapses have often led to revolution and enabled dictators to take power, and this time will be no different.  

Daniel 11:21-24 describes this.  “And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.  And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.  And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.  He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers' fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.”

This final ruler is the one Christians refer to as the Anti-Christ.  Our knowledge of history enables us to understand the prophecies as to how he will come to power, but they do not tell us who he will be or when he will come to power.    When we have spent the time studying the scriptures, and the history, and meditating on them, the Holy Spirit enables us to comprehend some of what the prophecies mean, but that does not mean we will understand every detail.  He does not want us to be distracted by details that are not relevant to our Christian life, but it is critical that Christians know things are going according to God’s plan.  H has given us an overview so that we can understand his plan and have an understanding of what to expect in the future, as it affects our daily Christian lives.  He does not need to constantly give new prophecies to bring us up to date.  

Understanding Prophecy V

Once we have studied the relevant passages and taken time to understand what they say, and have taken time to study the history, we gain a general idea of who the primary players are in the prophecy.  As we have seen in Daniel 11, the King of the South definitely appears to be a Middle Eastern nation or consortium, and the King of the North appears to involve a European alliance, neither of which were major powers in Daniel’s day   As we saw, the northern powers defeated the southern kingdom, which later rebelled and began to try to seize power again.  This seems to be where we are in the prophecy today. 

The accuracy of the prophecy is completely dependent on the source, so it is entirely dependent on whether God is the omniscient God or not.   The fact that the prophecies have consistently predicted events far in the future with no contradictions indicates they are from God and can still be taken seriously as predictors of the future. Daniel’s next major prophecy is found in Daniel 11:13-16.   

“For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches.  And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall.  So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.  But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed.” (Daniel 11:13-16)

According to Daniel, this effort by the southern forces to seize control of the European countries will result in major war, with the Northern coalition or group invading and defeating the Southern, historically Islamic forces.  Many other groups will join with them in the effort to bring them back under control.  Ezekiel 38:2-5 Tells us more about This invasion.  “Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him, And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Gog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal: And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thine army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts of armour, even a great company with bucklers and shields, all of them handling swords: Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet: Gomer, and all his bands; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his bands: and many people with thee.” 

Literally, God says they will be forced to form a powerful coalition and invade the Middle East in an effort to protect themselves and their culture.  Going back in history and researching the names Ezekiel lists, we find that some of those countries are in fact Islamic countries today, and are almost as desperate to stop the Jihadist movement as the European countries.  Others are more concerned with gaining power over Israel than stopping the Jihadists, according to Daniel. 

Literally, the next major event predicted in Daniel 11 is a major conflict in the Middle East as a result of the ongoing invasions of so called Islamic “refugees” and their constantly growing efforts to take over the countries where they settle.   It will involve a major number of the countries of the world, not just America or Russia.  Today, we see many countries struggling with the refugee problesm and Islamic efforts to take over the territories of the people who have attempted to help them it is no big step of faith to accept Daniel’s prophecy as again being accurate about this event.  The only real question is how long the nations of the world will continue to put up with the present situation.  Sooner or later, they will be forced to take action. 

Understanding Prophecy IV

Understanding the historical context is valuable in understanding any subject.  Fortunately, the historical contest is usually a part of the story in he scriptures, making it relatively easy to learn.  Because prophecy so often reaches beyond the immediate time, frequently the historical context is less obvious.  Perhaps more than any other subject in the Bible, understanding prophecy depends on an understanding of history that had not yet happened when the prophecies were made.  

 First, it gives us a way of verifying that the prophecies actually came from God, because as Deuteronony 18:22 tells us, “When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.”  Quite simply, if the prophecies have not been or are not being fulfilled, the person is a false prophet, and we should not pay attention to them.  Secondly, if the prophecy is not yet complete, an understanding of the history can help us understand where we are in the prophecy and give a better understanding of what future events are described.   Daniel 11 provides several examples.

Daniel starts the chapter by describing the time when he received the prophecy in Daniel 11:1.  “Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him.”  About 500 BC, the medo Persian Empire conquered Babylon and Darius the Mede ruled the part of the Empire where Babylon was located. 

Daniel 11:2 continues, “And now will I show thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of Grecia.”

About seven years later, Darius died and Cyrus the Persian took over, giving the command for Israel to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple.   The Empire became known just as the Persian Empire.  Cyrus was the first of the Persian emperors.  He would be followed by Cambyses, using the title Ahaseurus or King of Kings.  When Cambyses was Killed, Darius the Persian became emperor.  Late in life he made his son Xerxes his co regent, but Xerxes was killed shortly before Darius’ death and never became emperor,  When Darius died, Xerxes’ son Artaxerxes became Emperor.  He was rich and powerful and toward the end of his reign, there became a lot of conflict with the expanding Greek power.   The Persian Empire began to collapse shortly after his death, with various Greek forces taking over. 

“And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will.  And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside those.” (Daniel 11:3-4)

Philip of Macedon was able to unite the various Greek city statesinto a single Empire, and His son, alexander the Great then conquered the rest of the Persian Empire.  Alexander died in 320 BC, and his kingdom was split between his four generals, with Ptolemy taking the southern kingdom which included Egypt, the Arab Peninsula, Ethiopia and Libya. 

“And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her, and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.” (Daniel 11:6)

Later, under the Roman Empire, the Greek empire would be reunited.  Cleopatra, the last of Ptolemy’s descendants would make a treaty with Rome but later be executed by the Roman army.  The Roman Empire became extremely powerful and lasted until 476 AD. 

“But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail: And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue more years than the king of the north. So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land.” (Daniel 11:7-9)

About 610 AD, Mohammed started the Muslim religion,  in the Arab Peninsula, a part of the old southern kingdom.  Islam would eventually spread throughout much of the old Roman Empire reaching as far north as Southern Russian and Austria.  World War I finally finished their control, with various European nations dividing up their lands and driving the leadership back to their original homelands.  .  They had been a world power for almost thirteen hundred years, far longer than the Roman or Greek empires. 

“But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress.  And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand.  And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be strengthened by it.” (Daniel 11:10-12)

Today we again see the Islamic forces expanding, trying to gain world domination,  especially trying to establish a presence in northern Europe and Asia.  Clearly, Daniel’s prophecies have been fulfilled to this point, which means we need to take them seriously.  Knowing the history also helps us to understand who the players will be in the future, even though they didn’t exist in Daniel’s day.  Without a knowledge of history, it would be nearly impossible to understand Daniel’s prophecies.  Many of the conflicts over prophecy have arisen because the history has been ignored.  

Understanding Prophecy III

One of the most polarizing doctrines in prophecy is that of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture.  Like other doctrinal disagreements, the conflict arises as a result of a failure to use basic Bible study procedures.  The Pre-Trib position is that the Antichrist cannot assume power until the Holy Spirit is taken out of the world.   Since the Holy Spirit is in every Christian, that means the Christians must be raptured out before the Tribulation can start.   They use II Thessalonians 2:6-7 to prove their point, insisting it refers to the Holy Spirit.  “And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.  For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.”  This has led to many believing that no one will be saved during the Tribulation, while others realizing that Revelation 7:14 spoke of people being saved during it have concluded that they are saved  during that period in a special way that does not require the Holy Spirit’s working. 

Unfortunately the interpretation of II Thessalonians 2:6-7 as referring to the Holy spirit overlooks the principle in II Peter 1:20, “…that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation,” that no scripture can be  interpreted by itself, but must be compared to other scriptures.  In nearly fifty years of study, I have not found any other scriptures that support the idea that it is Holy Spirit who restrains Satan from taking over the world.  Instead, I found that Daniel 10:13, Daniel 10:21, Daniel 12:1, and Revelation 12:7 indicate that it is Michael, the archangel who stands against and restrains Satan.  This leaves the Pre-Trib position without scriptural basis, but does not prove it is wrong. 

In order to see if it is true or not we will start by reading II Thessalonians 2:1-10 more carefully.  “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.

Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.  Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.  For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.  And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

II Thessalonians 2:1-5 clearly states that the Christians will not be gathered together with Christ, or Raptured, until after the Antichrist is revealed.  While the Tribulation will last 7 years, Daniel 11:15-21 indicates the Antichrist will not come to power until about three and a half years into it.  Revelation 13:4-5 tells us the Antichrist will only be in power three and a half years.   “And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?  And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.”  Other passages refer to his reign as lasting a time, times and half a time, or one thousand two hundred ninety days.  This would make it impossible for the rapture to come before the Tribulation starts. 

This fits exactly with what Jesus said in Matthew 24:29-31.  “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.  And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.”  Revelation 14 indicates a similar picture with the rapture occurring somewhat later, and the sequence of events described in Revelation 19 paints a similar picture.   

Understanding Prophecy II

One of the biggest problems in understanding prophecy is that so many do not apply the basic principles for understanding scriptures.  For example, different ones have referred to different signs such as the alignment of certain planets or the so called blood moons as signs of the Lord’s return.  Still others have focused on various wars such as World War I or World War II, or the rebuilding of Israel and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.  By just taking time to read a passage completely and keep it in context many of those problems can be eliminated.  Matthew 24:3-8 provides a valuable example. 

“And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.  For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.  And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.  For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.  All these are the beginning of sorrows.”

Jesus said we were not to consider these kinds of events as signs of the imminent return of Christ, because they are natural outcomes of the present world and the way it works.  For example, like solar eclipses, the alignments of the planets or the blood moons occur periodically as a result of the orbits of the moon and various planets, and have no special significance.  Claiming they are some special sign is little different that reading the horoscope or practicing astrology. 

Similarly, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and climatic changes such as droughts or climate change result from natural events such as the shifting of the tectonic plates or a slight wobble the earth’s rotation as a result of those tectonic shifts.  Geological evidence shows these changes have occurr3ed periodically since the beginning of time and have no special meaning.  Wars and conflicts are the result of man’s sinful nature, and serve only to remind us that mankind is inherently sinful. 

Jesus said Christians should not allow themselves to be upset by false teachers claiming such events are signs of the end of the world or of the Lord’s return.  They are just a reminder that we live in an imperfect world.  Unfortunately the proponents of global warming are little different than many prophecy teachers, ignoring the science and historical records in an effort to stir people up to accomplish their agenda.  In II Thessalonians 2:1-2 Paul warns against falling for such teaching, regardless who is promoting it.  “Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,  That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.”  Simply taking time to read what the prophecies say can save a vast amount of confusion and concern.  

Understanding Prophecy

One area of scripture that leads to a lot of controversy is prophecy.  Some believe God finished the prophecies with the completion of the Bible, while others believe it is an ongoing gift in the church.  With new prophecies given daily.   Some have devoted their entire ministry, arriving at widely divergent interpretations of what the prophecies mean.  As a result, some have concluded that the study of prophecy is a waste of time because it is impossible to understand.   Others say these things are not relevant to us today. 

II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”   A great deal of scripture is comprised of prophecy, so obviously, those who refuse to study it are missing out on things they need to know in order to be fully equipped to please God.     In I Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul makes it clear that an understanding of some prophecy is the basis for our hope for eternity. 

“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.” 

Without an understanding of the Lord’s return, there is no reason to continue to as a Christian.  All hope effectively ended when Christ died on the cross if the prophecies are to be ignored.  Our faith is based on the premise that he will fulfill those prophecies about his return.   Clearly, a proper understanding of those prophecies is crucial for us to develop a proper spiritual relationship with God.   A ministry which does not teach people about the prophecies cannot fulfill the great commission, because they are not teaching everything Christ has taught us.   At the same time, a ministry which focuses solely on prophecy cannot equip people for day to day service of God because not all scripture is focused on the future.   

The first step in understanding prophecy is to understand the biblical meaning of the word.  Our English word specifically implies foretelling the future by some means, and this is meaning most people associate with prophecy.  The biblical word refers to telling people what God has said, and does not necessarily refer to foretelling the future.  In Deuteronomy 18:18-22 God gave some very specific  guidelines about prophets. 

“I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.   And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.  But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.

And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken?  When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him. “ 

The prophet was to speak only what God had said.  He was not to change it or tell them what he thought, and the people were to take his words as being from God.  A prophet who spoke in the name of other gods or made a prophecy which did not come from god was to be killed as a false prophet.  They would know whether the message was truly from God or not by  watching to see whether the prophecies were fulfilled.  This principle is still in effect. 

The study of prophecy requires the same efforts as the study of any other passage of scripture, including a proper understanding of the words, the grammar, and comparison to other scriptures.  In addition it requires a study of the history to see whether some of the prophesied events have taken place in the past.  This gives us another way of checking our understanding of the prophecies.   If we take the time to apply those principles we can be sure of our understanding of the prophecies.    In future posts we will see how these principles affect our understanding.   

Studying The Scriptures VII

Many today believe that the old Testament is irrelevant to modern Christians.   This is directly contradicted by II Timothy 2:16-7.  “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”   Paul says it is all relevant.  

In I Corinthians 10:6-11, he tells us, “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.  Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.  Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.  Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.  Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.  Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.  Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”  Even the most obscure passages warn of the consequences of ignoring God’s plan, in hopes of preventing our experiencing the same consequences.

Many believe that the old Testament law is completely obsolete, quoting  verses like Romans 10:4 to support their claims.  “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.”   Jesus himself said, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.  For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.  Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven,” in Matthew 5:17-19.   While those who believe are no longer under the Law, it is still in effect for the unsaved world.    While it cannot save them, understanding it’s provisions makes people aware of their need of salvation, according to romans 3:20.  “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.”

Those who ignore that law, or teach others to ignore it will lose any rewards they might otherwise earn, although they will not lose their salvation, according to I Corinthians 3:13-15.  “Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.  If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.  If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.”

Each book and story in the Bible was specifically directed by god to teach us certain things in order to prepare us to serve him in a proper fashion.    The first few chapters of Genesis tell us who God is, how he created the world, and how man began to rebel against him, choosing to follow Satan instead.   God is a just God who cannot overlook such rebellion, and the remainder to Genesis and Exodus illustrate his love and mercy, providing a way to be freed from the consequences of sin.   Hebrews than uses those illustrations to enable us to understand what eternal salvation requires.  The historical books show us the rewards for serving God, and the punishment for ignoring him.  Leviticus helps us understand the moral standard and attitudes God expects from his people.   Proverbs provides a series of short, easily remembered guidelines for having the best life possible here on earth.  Romans explains the basic doctrines of the Christian faith, while I Corinthians demonstrates what it means to walk in the Spirit.  I and II Timothy and Titus explain what is required in ministry, while Revelation and the various prophets warn of what we can expect in the future.    The overlapping teachings of the various books enable us to verify our understanding of the different teachings. 

Clearly, it will be necessary to study all the scriptures if we are to be fully prepared to serve God acceptably.  We must not limit ourselves to a few subjects or passages we consider more important.  

Studying The Scriptures VI

John 5:39 commands, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.”  Thanks to the Holy Spirit’s working in us, as Christians, I Corinthians 2:16 tells us, “… But we have the mind of Christ.”  As a result, a careful and conscientious study of the scriptures has a tremendous impact on us.  II Corinthians 3:18 tells us, “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”

Literally, the more carefully and thoroughly we study the scriptures, getting to know God and Christ, the more like Christ we will become.    The one condition is that we approach our study with an open face, laying aside our traditions and preconceived ideas about them so that we can get to know the real beings.  If we hold to those old ideas and traditions, we may never get to really know either God or Christ.

A girl has been raised by an abusive father or has been constantly told that all men care about is sex may never understand how much her husband loves her because she filters everything he says or does through those filters.  In the same way a person who has been taught that God makes unreasonable  demands on people may have trouble accepting or sharing his love and become very rigid and judgmental, demanding everyone meets their standards of behavior, not understanding that “… where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty,” as II Corinthians 3:17 tells us.   Similarly, a person who has been taught that the Old Testament standards of morality no longer apply may have trouble understanding that He is also a God of wrath and judgment who will not ignore sin.  As a result they find it hard to take a stand against sin or hold people accountable.   In both situations, the people are allowing their carnal understanding about God to distort their view of him, hampering their spiritual development.    I

To gain maximum benefit from our studies, it will be essential to examine everything we have been taught in the light of the scriptures and eliminate any doctrine or belief that does not match the scriptures.  Most people find this difficult because so many of those incorrect beliefs have been held so long they no longer think about them, simply assuming they are true because they trust the people who told them.   Unfortunately, even honest and sincere people can be wrong.   We need to be willing to change when we find out something is not right.      

Studying The Scriptures V

We have looked at the importance of studying the scriptures, of taking the time to read in context, to check out the punctuation, of word meanings and grammar just as one would any other book.  We also stressed the importance of comparing passages to make sure we are not distorting or perverting what they say.  All of these are vital, if we are to understand the scriptures, but there is one very important factor than needs to be considered. 

I Corinthians 2:14 tells us, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”  The natural, unsaved person has a limited capacity for understanding spiritual things.  It is like trying to explain the workings of a modern sawmill or power plant to someone who has never seen one.  No matter how carefully it is explained or how accurately, they will not fully understand until they see it in operation.  Similarly, no matter how carefully one studies or tries to explain the scriptures, the lack of understanding of how god works will limit the person’s ability to understand them, regardless how much we try to dumb down a new translation, a commentary or series of lessons, and frequently such efforts lose much of the meaning .

Fortunately, when a person receives Christ as savior, he also receives the Holy Spirit, who is able to give him the understanding he needs, as I Corinthians 2:11-13 tells us.  “For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” 

His presence does not reduce the need to read and study toe scriptures, but he makes us able to study effectively, understanding what the scriptures tell us.  In John 14:26, Jesus said, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”  All teaching is based on the things a person has learned previously.  The Holy Spirit causes us to remember the things we have studied, even before we were saved, to help us understand new things about God’s word. 

In fact, John 16:13 tells us, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth…”    As a result, I John 2:27 tells us, “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.”  With the Holy Spirit to teach us, we will not need a lot of other materials or teachers to help understand the scriptures.   We can depend o the Holy Spirit to teach us, and to show us when something we read or hear is not right.  

Studying The Scriptures IV

We can be sure the scriptures can be trusted because they were written by man as God directed them to write, according to II Peter 1:19-21.  “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  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.”

The scriptures were written in ancient forms of Hebrew and Greek, languages most people do not speak.  As a result it is necessary to have them translated into languages people understand today.    Unfortunately, there are no languages which translate word for word into another language.  Words may have similar but slightly different meanings, or the organization of thoughts differs from language to language.  In addition languages change to meet the needs of the people, so that Old English is a great deal different than modern English and American English is different than British English.   As a result, each translation, and each language change introduces potential confusion as to what the scriptures actually meant. 

God was aware that the problem would arise, and II Peter makes the point that because all the writers were directed by God, no passage can be interpreted independently of the rest of the scriptures.  This allows us to test our understanding of the passage to se whether we are interpreting it correctly or not.  Let’s look at a common example. 

There are many who believe baptism is essential for salvation, quoting Mark 16:16,,”as proof that their interpretation is accurate.  Numerous passages such as John 3:14-18, John 3:36, Romans 10:9-13, Ephesians 2:8-9, etc., indicate that one can be saved simply as a result of believing in Christ.  If Baptism is required, then of necessity, all the other verses are incorrect, and the Bible cannot be trusted.  If the verses about simply believing are correct, however, Mark 16:16 can also be true because the person has believed and being baptized will not change that.  Quite simply, if one’s interpretation of a verse or passage conflicts with other verses or passages, the interpretation is incorrect, regardless how many may believe it. 

No translation of the scripture is perfect, but understanding this principle can enable us to identify and correct the flaw in our teaching.  While the quality of different translations varies, we no longer have to worry about whether the one we are using has flaws and can avoid many of the conflicts we have seen in America over which translation is used.  It does require that we be willing to spend the effort to study and compare the scriptures to be sure of our interpretation, however.

Many of the conflicts and false doctrines in modern churches are the result of teachers who are too lazy to do the necessary studying.  Instead they focus on their interpretation and if another translation quotes the verse somewhat differently, declare that translation unacceptable.    At the same time, it important to remember that there will be less confusion if everyone in a service is using the same version of the scripture, and God is not author of confusion.  That does not mean we cannot use other versions in personal Bible study.  

Studying The Scriptures III

In yesterday’s post we talked about the need to read enough to get the complete meaning in order to gain a proper understanding.  I mentioned that many of the so-called scientific studies are inaccurate or or openly fraudulent, because they do not report all the facts or even make up references.   In an effort to keep up with all the latest discoveries, doctors or scientists begin to just skim the things they read, looking only for major points or subtitles without reading the supporting material.  As a result they have only a superficial understanding of what they read, and many inaccurate or misleading statements are accepted without question.  If the doctors were to concentrate on reading a few articles thoroughly instead of trying to read every article, the authors of the studies would be forced to make sure their material was accurate. 

The same principle applies to understanding the scriptures.   Our reading is critical if we are to learn what God wants us to know, and I Timothy 4:13 commands, “Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.”   Unfortunately, some people fall into a trap of trying to read a certain amount each day, and begin to just skim the passages, looking only for points that catch their attention.  Asa result they get only a superficial and incomplete picture of what the scriptures say, leaving them susceptible to false doctrines and misinterpretations of the scriptures.  It is far better to read a smaller portion of scripture and understand it than to read five chapters each day so you can read the Bible through in a year. 

To avoid that problem we need to focus on accurately understanding what we read, rather than on covering a certain amount of material.  Two verses down from the command to read, I Timothy 4:15 commands, “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.”   The Greek word used means to take care of, to revolve in one’s mind.  Literally, Paul said we should examine the scriptures thoroughly, making sure we do not distort or damage them in the process.  The Seven Laws of Teaching tells us that nothing will be learned until the pupil takes the time to think the subject through for themselves.  We cannot skim through the scriptures and learn what we need to know. 

II Timothy 2:15 commands, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”   Studying requires making a conscious effort to understand the subject in detail.  Sometimes studying requires looking up the meanings of words when they are used in an unfamiliar way, because language is constantly changing.  If using a translation from Greek or Hebrew, it may be helpful to look up the meanings of the original word since many words have somewhat different meanings when translated into other languages.   Language is the medium of communication, so and understanding of the language and grammar used is essential for proper understanding. 

If we want to be pleasing to God, we are going to need to make the effort to get a proper understanding of his word.  Joshua 1:8 promises, “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”  If we will make the effort, all of the verses tell us we can be the Christians God wants us to be.   A good dictionary, listing archaic definitions and a Hebrew or Greek dictionary such as those in Strong’s Concordance can be very helpful in getting a correct understanding, but they are not essential.

Unfortunately, the use of commentaries, devotionals, and other helps frequently become a substitute for studying for one’s self, and should be used sparingly.  We need to realize they are someone’s interpretation of the scriptures, and are not scripture themselves.  Dependence on them frequently leads to false doctrine.  

Studying The Scriptures II

Many modern scientists are concerned about things being proclaimed as scientific fact that are contradicted by historical science.  Carefully designed demonstrations are used to convince people that a certain belief is true, when in fact it has nothing to do with what is claimed.  A recent example is a demonstration used to convince school children that methane gas is a cause of global warming by injecting methane into a sealed container, and showing a resulting rise in temperature.  What the students don’t know is that increasing the pressure of any gas results in a temperature increase, and the fact that is was methane is irrelevant.   The demonstration would only be relevant to global warming if we show that we are experiencing increasing atmospheric pressure, which no one is claiming. 

 Former editors of the New England of Medicine and the British medical journal, the Lancet have commented that more than half the medical articles they received were scientifically unsound, with some authors cherry picking their quotes from other studies to eliminate any contradictory data, while others simply quote non-existent comments from other well-known studies on the assumption no one will check out their references.   The editors were concerned that possibly life-threatening advice was being accepted based on such unsound scientific studies. 

A similar situation exists in interpretation of the scriptures today, with some people saying you can interpret the Bible to say anything you want.  By using such techniques, we can make almost any article or book appear to support any position we choose, but that does not mean that is what it said.  For example, there was an atheist who said that Bible says, “There is no God,” quoting Psalm 14:1 and 53:1 to support his statement.  It is a distortion of what the verses say.  Both of them state, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God…”  It does not say there is no God, but that fools say there is no God.  Simply taking the time to read the entire passage and get the context   changes our understanding of what the scriptures are actually saying. 

The first step in understanding a passage is to read the entire sentence, taking into account the meanings of the words and the punctuation.  The punctuation can change the meaning a great deal, so understanding the proper usage of punctuation is a useful tool in understanding the Bible.    Unfortunately, those who divided the bible into verses ignored the punctuation in many cases, frequently ending a verse at a comma rather than a period.    A sentence is a complete thought, and the period is used to show where the thought ends.  Commas are used to separate items in list, such as a grocery list of eggs, milk, toast, and bacon for breakfast.  Leaving out the comma between milk and toast changes the meaning , making the list eggs, milk toast(milquetoast), and bacon.    Such changes can result in serious misunderstandings.  Taking the trouble to consider the punctuation is a valuable tool in understanding the scriptures.  Just reading from one period to the next can change our understanding completely. 

Sentences are arranged into paragraphs that clarify and expand one’s understanding, so reading the preceding and following sentences can further refine our understanding of what a passage means.  Without those other sentences we may well arrive at a false conclusion as to what the verse or passage means.  Take the time to read the verse or passage in context to be sure you are understanding it correctly.  

Studying The Scriptures I

Christianity is based on the principle that the scriptures are true.   In John 5:39, Jesus instructed the Jews, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.”  Their understanding of who the Messiah was and what he would do was based on the scriptures.   Only through the scriptures could they be sure that Jesus was in fact the Messiah.  Their faith had to be based on the scriptures, as Romans 10:17 says.  “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

This presupposes that the scriptures are accurate and can be depended upon.  II Peter 1:19-21 tells they can because of the way they were given.  “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  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.”   He is very specific that the various writers and prophets did not write what they thought was important, but were specifically directed by God what they were to write.  As a result we can believe the scriptures are in fact the word of God, even though they were transcribed by many different men. 

Today there are many who believe that the scriptures contain the word of God, but that it not all his word.   Still others believe that some parts are only applicable to certain periods in history and do not apply today.   As we will see there are some reasons for their beliefs, but as II Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”  Every scripture came from God and they are all applicable for people today. 

That does not mean we can randomly open our bible and place our finger on averse and base our actions on what the verse says, as some have taught.  They can be misunderstood or misapplied, so II Timothy 2:15 commands, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”  To properly understand what the scriptures are saying, it will be necessary to spend the time studying them.  While some scriptures are for basic doctrine or guidance others are for examples of what happens when we obey or when we disobey what God said, according to I Corinthians 10:11.  “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. “  Some of the things are in there to warn us not to do them.  It would be foolish to do them just because they are described in a particular verse.      

Acts 17:11 was speaking of the people at Berea when he said, “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”  Literally, it says that they deserved more respect because they were willing to listen to different ideas, but before they believed them, they took the time to study the scriptures to see whether the ideas were true or not.  In this study we will be looking at some things to help in getting the best understanding possible.