How We Got the Bible

This study is designed to discuss the origin of the Bible and not the different translations. 

1.    How many writers and over what span of time was the Bible written?

40 writers over 1500 years. 

2.    Where was the Bible written?

In most of the known world up until the time of Christ. 

3.    What types of writings are in the Bible?

Law, History, Poetry, Prophecy, Gospels, Biography, Apocryphal 

4.    How can all the different people, from different social / ethic backgrounds and occupations write a book that has both unity and harmony?

It is evidence that it has one theme, one true author, God. 

5.    In Isaiah 55:8,9 God indicates what about man?

God’s ways are higher than man’s ways. 

6.    Give three characteristics about God that man does not and cannot possess?

Omniscient, Omnipresent, Omnipotent 

7.    Why was the Bible given to us?

As a comfort and as a means of attaining salvation. John 14:26; John 6:63 

8.    The Bible has both unity of doctrine and unity of purpose, please explain.

There are no discrepancies in the doctrine and in the gospel message throughout. 

9.    Discuss the unity in organization of the Bible.

I. Beginning of Time, physical life, spiritual life  II. Patriarchs, prophets, priests  III. Mosaic, physical kingdom, law   IV. Christ, end of time, future glory.  

10.           Give several examples of Unity of Style.

Prose, growth of the Jewish nation

Sterile, priestly laws

Detailed, How to build the temple, ark

Law, Leviticus

Prophesy, Daniel, Revelation 

11.           The above questions on unity confirm what about the Bible?

One author, written by the hand of men but the direction of God 

12.           The Bible is self evident of its origin.  What scripture teaches this?

II Timothy 3:16 Given by the inspiration of God. (God breathed) 

13.           What does the word scripture mean?

Writings 

14.           How did the writers of the Bible know what to write?

Written as the spirit gave them inspiration. 

15.           What does Jesus say about the scripture in John 10:35 and Matthew 5:18?

Scripture cannot be broken, all shall be fulfilled. 

16.           Define verbal and plenary inspiration.

Each word is inspired and each thought is inspired