Memory Scripture
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
(2 Timothy 3:16)
The Inspiration of the Bible is a deep mystery, where God’s voice joined with human hearts to create a timeless guide for our lives.
DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS
Mon.26: The Word Is Pure And True (Ps. 12:6)
Tue. 27: The Unbreakable Nature Of The Scripture(Jn.10:25)
Wed 28: The Eternal Nature Of God’s Word (ls. 40:8)
Thu. 29: The Word: Living And Active (Heb. 4:12)
Fri. 30: The Scripture, Given For Our Encouragement (Rom.15:4)
Sat. 31: Jesus, The Fulfilment Of The Scripture (Matt 5:17-18)
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
The Bible, as God’s inspired Word, serves as a guide for every believer in their spiritual journey.
INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCES: PSALM 119:89; ISAIAH 55:10-1; MATTHEW 4:4; 5:18; 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17; 2 PETER 1:20-21
Divine Revelations That Shape The Bible was the topic of discussion in the previous lesson; and we thank the Almighty God for the insight we received through that impactful lesson.
The topic under consideration this week is: The Inspiration of the Bible. This is a foundational doctrine of Christianity, asserting that the scriptures are inspired and authoritative for faith and practice. The concept of inspiration means that the Bible is unique among all other religious books, because it is uniquely divinely inspired. While many books have human authors, the Bible’s authorship transcends human limitation, as God Himself is its ultimate Author.
In this lesson, we will explore how the Bible was inspired, its origin and the authority it holds in the lives of believers. Understanding the inspiration of the Scripture is crucial for deepening our faith and knowing the unchanging truth of God’s Word. May we be wholly transformed, as we move on in the lesson, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
LESSON OUTLINE
- THE BIBLE: GOD’S INSPIRED WORD
- THE INSPIRED WORD’S AUTHORITY
LESSON EXPOSITION
THE BIBLE: GOD’S INSPIRED WORD (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet.1:20-21)
All Scripture is given by inspiration on of God…
(2Tim 3:16-17)
a) 2 Tim. 3:16-17: Inspiration means that the Bible was written by humans, guided by the Holy Spirit. God gave them His words, ensuring the message stayed true, pure and authoritative.
b) The Bible is both divine and human. God used diverse personalities who brought their unique styles and experiences to record His Word. Yet, the message remained divinely guided (Ps. 119:105).
c) …given by inspiration of God… (v. 16a) affirms that the Scripture originates from God with divine authority to shape believers’ lives. The Bible originates from God’s eternal truth, not human ideas, or culture (Ps.119:89).
d) 2 Pet. 1:20-21: The only time God personally wrote His word was on the stone tablets given to Moses (Exo. 31:18). Afterwards, He moved the human writers through His Spirit to document His Word, ensuring accuracy and inerrancy.
THE INSPIRED WORD’S AUTHORITY (Ps. 119:89; Isa. 55:10-11; Matt. 4:4; 5:18)
For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the Law till all is fulfilled
(Matt.5:18).
a) Matt. 5:18: The Bible’s authority stems from its divine authorship. As God’s Word, it is the ultimate standard for faith, doctrine and living. Here, Jesus affirms the eternal validity of the inspired Word.
b) Ps. 119:89: Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven. God’s Word is eternal and unchanging. Its authority is enduring and surpasses all human wisdom (Is. 40:8)
c) Matt. 4:4: Also, Jesus treated the Scripture as authoritative and binding; and also declared that the Scripture cannot be broken, thus affirming its reliability (Jn. 10:35).
d) Is. 55:10-11: So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth: It shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish what I please… God’s Word isn’t just words; it has power and always achieves His purpose. lt is highly authoritative.
LESSONS DERIVED
- The Bible is divinely inspired; God used human writers while guiding them by His Spirit to record His message.
- The Bible’s authority is final in matters of faith, conduct and salvation. It is the ultimate authority for believers, providing guidance and correction.
QUESTIONS
- The Bible is inspired by God Explain.
- Why is the Bible authoritative for believers?
