#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
Key Bible Verse:
“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” — Exodus 20:16 (NIV)
Ever wondered about the integrity of those who wrote the Bible? It’s natural to question whether the biblical writers were honest or if they might have been motivated by deceit. But let’s dive into why their character and the fulfilled prophecies affirm their reliability.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
The biblical writers were deeply rooted in their Jewish faith and committed to upholding the Ten Commandments, including the one against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). J. Warner Wallace, a former cold-case detective turned Christian apologist, points out that these men had nothing to gain and everything to lose by spreading a lie about Jesus being the Messiah. As Wallace states, “The disciples faced persecution, torture, and martyrdom for their claims. People don’t die for what they know to be a lie.”
Moreover, the prophecies Jesus fulfilled were beyond human manipulation. For instance, Micah 5:2 predicted the Messiah’s birthplace in Bethlehem, and Isaiah 7:14 foretold His virgin birth. William Lane Craig emphasizes the statistical improbability of one person fulfilling all these prophecies by chance, stating, “The odds against Jesus fulfilling just eight of the messianic prophecies have been estimated at 1 in 10^17.”
Encouragement & Application:
Doubts about the Bible’s reliability are normal, but remember that the character of its writers and the fulfilled prophecies provide strong evidence for its truth. Strengthen your faith by exploring these prophecies and the lives of the biblical authors. Engage in honest discussions with mentors or within your faith community to deepen your understanding.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the integrity of the biblical writers impact your trust in the Scriptures?
- Which fulfilled prophecy about Jesus stands out to you the most, and why?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the faithful men who recorded Your Word. Help us to trust in their integrity and the truth of Your prophecies. Guide us as we seek to understand and grow in our faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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