Be Ready to Answer

People are asking questions about faith these days. Sometimes the questions are philosophical ("Why is there so much suffering in the world? Is there really such a thing as absolute truth?"). Sometimes they're more personal ("How can I find peace in my own heart?"). And occasionally they're merely hypothetical—our skeptical friends sometimes ask hard questions, not because they really want an answer, but simply to see how we'll respond.

One key question is, Why do Christians believe the Bible is the Word of God? Nowadays, we can't assume that people around us automatically see the Bible as an authoritative message from God. According to researcher George Barna, 42 percent of Americans do not agree that the Bible is the written and completely accurate Word of God, and 57 percent of all adults do not read the Bible at all during a typical week.

We must be ready at all times to gently, respectfully answer those who ask about our hope in Christ (1 Peter 3:15), so I came up with a short outline to use when I have the opportunity—either in a classroom setting or in personal conversation—to explain some of my reasons for believing the Bible.

First, the Bible claims to be God's Word. "All Scripture is God-breathed (inspired)" (2 Timothy 3:16). "Men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21). By trusting in the inspiration of Scripture, we're simply accepting the testimony of the biblical authors themselves, who said without hesitation or embarrassment things like "this is what the Lord says" or "what I am writing to you is the Lord's command" (1 Corinthians 14:37).

The Bible's historical accuracy adds to its credibility. The writers of Scripture did not tell "cleverly invented stories"; they were eyewitnesses who reported the facts (2 Peter 1:16).

I'm also impressed by the remarkable style of the Bible. Its wisdom, beauty, and power impress even those who read it merely for its literary value. Charles Dickens called the New Testament "the very best book that ever was or ever will be known in the world."

Furthermore, the Bible has proved indestructible. Written long before modern printing presses, it has survived centuries of hand-copying, the opposition of its enemies (Roman emperors and communist governments that tried to suppress it), and the neglect and misuse of those who claim to be its friends. As Jesus predicted, his words have never passed away (Mark 13:31).

I'm fascinated, as well, by evidences of the Bible's scientific and prophetic accuracy. Biblical authors wrote about the countless number of stars (Genesis 15:5, 22:17) and the life-giving qualities of blood (Leviticus 17:11) long before modern science understood these facts, and predicted numerous details about Jesus' life long before he came to earth (Isaiah 53).

And I'm impressed by the total unity of the Bible. Though written by many different authors over hundreds of years, the Bible relates one consistent, harmonious message about God's will and his plan for our salvation.

Did you notice that my little outline is actually an acrostic that forms the word "CHRIST"? Claims, Historical accuracy, Remarkable style, Indestructibility, Scientific and prophetic accuracy, Total unity.

Most of all, I appreciate the Bible because I love Christ, the Son of God revealed within its pages. In today's increasingly skeptical world, let's develop a confident, hopeful, reasonable faith. Then let's share the truth of Christ with gentleness and respect.