In today's episode of the Text-Driven Women Podcast, we're studying our first category in our new Systematic Theology study—Introduction to the Doctrine of Scripture (Bibliology). This specific episode walks through the first set of characteristics of Scripture, Scripture is inspired and authoritative.
Scripture Index: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 19:7
Language Studies:
Theopneustos = Greek for “breathed out by God” or “God-breathed"
Verbal Plenary Inspiration = The belief that the entire Bible is God-breathed and inerrant, meaning every word is fully inspired, including all details of history, doctrine, and geography. The term "plenary" signifies that the entire Bible is complete and without error, while "verbal" emphasizes that the inspiration extends to the very specific words chosen by the human authors, who were guided by the Holy Spirit without their personalities being violated.
Notable Quotes:
"The Scriptures have the authority to pronounce truth because God is its author – it is written by the very source of truth. It is out of God’s very nature. Therefore, because God is Creator, He has all authority. God’s Word has all authority out of virtue of who He is and what He has done."
"The Bible is God’s very speech. The simple fact is: what God says supersedes what everyone else has to say."
"Our allegiance to the Bible is a direct reflection of our allegiance to God."
"Truth is truth whether we experience it or not. Therefore, the Lord does not need our experience to validate His Word."
“Want to hear God speak? Open your Bible.”
"The doctrine of the authority of Scripture is rooted in the doctrine of God; as God is true and trustworthy, so is his word recorded in the Scriptures. This means that all things that the Scriptures assert are wholly true. "
Discussion Guide:
What does it mean for Scripture to be inspired?
What does it mean for Scripture to be authoritative?
How do the characteristics of Scripture as inspired and authoritative help you recognize the beauty, delight, and treasure that the compiled Word of God is?
What does this teach you about God?
What does this teach you about man?