Bri f T esday
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Biblical Inerrancy
General Superintendent
Max Edwards & Judy
What do we believe about the authority and inerrancy of the Bible? Good question. Let’s explore it a bit.
Some might wonder, for instance, whether Biblical references that are steeped in idiom or cultural language should be taken literally or figuratively, and if not literally, does that somehow imply that the Bible contains errors?
The second book of Kings records the ongoing sins of the nation of Israel, noting that they persisted in idol worship. “They set up for themselves sacred pillars and wooden images on every high hill and under every green tree.” 2 Kings 17:10 Does a belief in inerrancy demand thinking that idols were set up literally under EVERY SINGLE green tree? No. Later in the chapter, the narrative states that despite warning messages coming from the LORD’s prophets, “… They would not hear, but stiffened their necks, like the necks of their fathers, who did not believe in the Lord their God.” (17:14). Does inerrancy demand a belief that these people actually stiffened their necks? No, this was an idiomatic phrase that described rebellion and lack of submission.
Paragraph 131 in the Constitution of the EMC declares our firm stance on inerrancy. “Point by point, our Articles of Religion connect us with the doctrinal teachings of the apostolic church. We are Trinitarians, and we believe in the inspiration, the inerrancy, the authority, and the relevancy of the whole Bible, being persuaded it is the Word of God.” (emphasis mine) And our commitment to the doctrine of Biblical inerrancy is in no way weakened by these kinds of idioms, approximations, or use of literary hyperbole.
If you wish to dive a little deeper, read carefully through The Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy drafted and signed in 1978/1979. We agree with this thoughtful and ecumenical affirmation that the Bible is entirely truthful in all that it affirms without error. This clear and bold affirmation does not demand that the text be interpreted literally in every instance. Rather, inerrancy acknowledges that God used human authors, employing their own language, style, and cultural idioms such as hyperbole, observational language, and figures of speech to convey infallible truth
From the Chicago statement’s preface, “The authority of Scripture is a key issue for the Christian Church in this and every age. Those who profess faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are called to show the reality of their discipleship by humbly and faithfully obeying God’s written Word. To stray from Scripture in faith or conduct is disloyalty to our Master. Recognition of the total truth and trustworthiness of Holy Scripture is essential to a full grasp and adequate confession of its authority.” Amen! God’s Word is unique, inerrant, and authoritative.