The Bible at a Glance 66 Books. What are Scriptures? 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and

The Bible at a GlanceThe Bible at a Glance66 Books66 Books

What are Scriptures?What are Scriptures?

2 Timothy 3:16

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

The Bible at a GlanceThe Bible at a Glance

Old Testament 39 BooksOld Testament 39 Books New Testament 27 BooksNew Testament 27 Books God used 40 different men over a period of God used 40 different men over a period of

1,500 years in writing the Bible1,500 years in writing the Bible– About 1400 B.C. to A.D. 90About 1400 B.C. to A.D. 90

The Bible at a GlanceThe Bible at a GlanceHistoryHistory

17 Books17 Books

LawLawGenesisGenesis

ExodusExodus

LeviticusLeviticus

NumbersNumbers

DeuteronomyDeuteronomy

History & History & Gov’tGov’tJudgesJudges

RuthRuth

1 & 2 Samuel1 & 2 Samuel

1 & 2 Kings1 & 2 Kings

1 & 2 Chron.1 & 2 Chron.

EzraEzra

NehemiahNehemiah

EstherEsther

PoetryPoetry5 Books5 Books

JobJob

PsalmsPsalms

ProverbsProverbs

EcclesiastesEcclesiastes

Song of Song of

SolomonSolomon

ProphecyProphecy

17 Books17 BooksMajor Major ProphetsProphets

IsaiahIsaiah

JeremiahJeremiah

LamentationsLamentations

EzekielEzekiel

DanielDaniel

Minor Minor ProphetsProphets

HoseaHosea

JoelJoel

AmosAmos

ObadiahObadiah

JonahJonah

MicahMicah

NahumNahum

HabakkukHabakkuk

ZephaniahZephaniah

HagaiHagai

ZechariahZechariah

MalachiMalachi

HistoryHistory

5 Books5 Books

GospelsGospels

Matthew Matthew

MarkMark

LukeLuke

JohnJohn

The Early The Early ChurchChurch

ActsActs

TeachingTeaching

Paul’s Paul’s LettersLetters

RomansRomans

1 & 2 Cor.1 & 2 Cor.

GalatiansGalatians

EphesiansEphesians

PhilippiansPhilippians

ColossiansColossians

1 & 2 Thess.1 & 2 Thess.

1 & 2 Tim.1 & 2 Tim.

TitusTitus

PhilemonPhilemon

GeneralGeneral

LettersLetters

HebrewsHebrews

JamesJames

1 & 2 Peter1 & 2 Peter

1, 2 & 3 John1, 2 & 3 John

JudeJude

ProphecyProphecy

1 Book1 Book

RevelationRevelation

Hebrew Bible Hebrew Bible (24 books)(24 books)

The LawThe Law GenesisGenesis ExodusExodus LeviticusLeviticus NumbersNumbers DeuteronomyDeuteronomy

The PropThe Prophetshets JoshuaJoshua JudgesJudges SamuelSamuel KingsKings IsaiahIsaiah JeremiahJeremiah EzekielEzekiel The 12 Minor ProphetsThe 12 Minor Prophets

The WritingsThe Writings PsalmsPsalms ProverbsProverbs JobJob Song of SolomonSong of Solomon RuthRuth LamentationsLamentations EcclesiastesEcclesiastes EstherEsther DanielDaniel Ezra-NehemiahEzra-Nehemiah ChroniclesChronicles

Time Period of BibleTime Period of BibleThe time span for the writing of the Bible The time span for the writing of the Bible

covers approximately 1500 years covers approximately 1500 years Old Testament (1445—400 B. C.)Old Testament (1445—400 B. C.)

Genesis (1445)Genesis (1445) Exodus (1445)Exodus (1445) Leviticus (1445)Leviticus (1445) Numbers (1405)Numbers (1405) Deuteronomy (1405)Deuteronomy (1405) Joshua (1405—1385)Joshua (1405—1385) Judges (1043)Judges (1043) Ruth (1000)Ruth (1000) 1 and 2 Samuel (1000—900)1 and 2 Samuel (1000—900) 1 and 2 Kings (561—538)1 and 2 Kings (561—538) 1 and 2 Chronicles (450—430)1 and 2 Chronicles (450—430) Ezra (457—444)Ezra (457—444) Nehemiah (425)Nehemiah (425) Esther (475)Esther (475) Job (lived in patriarchal times)Job (lived in patriarchal times) Psalms (1450—500)Psalms (1450—500) Proverbs (950)Proverbs (950) Ecclesiastes (931)Ecclesiastes (931) Song of Solomon (960)Song of Solomon (960) Isaiah (740)Isaiah (740) Jeremiah (561)Jeremiah (561) Lamentations (586)Lamentations (586) Ezekiel (570)Ezekiel (570) Daniel (536)Daniel (536) Hosea (750)Hosea (750) Joel (830)Joel (830) Amos (760)Amos (760) Obadiah (845)Obadiah (845) Jonah (780)Jonah (780) Micah (735)Micah (735) Nahum (661—612)Nahum (661—612) Habakkuk (609)Habakkuk (609) Zephaniah (635)Zephaniah (635) Haggai (520)Haggai (520) Zechariah (520—518)Zechariah (520—518) Malachi (430)Malachi (430)

Time Period of BibleTime Period of BibleThe time span for the writing of the Bible The time span for the writing of the Bible

covers approximately 1500 years covers approximately 1500 years

New Testament New Testament (A. D. 50—100)(A. D. 50—100)

Matthew (50)Matthew (50) Mark (50)Mark (50) Luke (60-61)Luke (60-61) John (80-90)John (80-90) Acts (63)Acts (63) Romans (56)Romans (56) 1 Corinthians (54-55)1 Corinthians (54-55) 2 Corinthians (55-56)2 Corinthians (55-56) Galatians (48)Galatians (48) Ephesians (61)Ephesians (61) Philippians (62)Philippians (62) Colossians (61)Colossians (61) 1 Thessalonians (51)1 Thessalonians (51) 2 Thessalonians (51)2 Thessalonians (51) 1 Timothy (62)1 Timothy (62) 2 Timothy (64)2 Timothy (64) Titus (63)Titus (63) Philemon (61)Philemon (61) Hebrews (65)Hebrews (65) James (45)James (45) 1 Peter (65)1 Peter (65) 2 Peter (67)2 Peter (67) 1 John (85)1 John (85) 2 John (90)2 John (90) 3 John (90)3 John (90) Jude (70)Jude (70) Revelation (95). Revelation (95).

Timeline of Timeline of Bible Bible

Translation Translation HistoryHistory

(Before the (Before the Printing Press)Printing Press)

1,400 BC: The first written Word of God: The 1,400 BC: The first written Word of God: The Ten Commandments delivered to Moses.Ten Commandments delivered to Moses.

500 BC: Completion of All Original Hebrew 500 BC: Completion of All Original Hebrew Manuscripts which make up The 39 Books of Manuscripts which make up The 39 Books of the Old Testament.the Old Testament.

200 BC: Completion of the Septuagint Greek 200 BC: Completion of the Septuagint Greek Manuscripts which contain The 39 Old Manuscripts which contain The 39 Old Testament Books AND 14 Apocrypha Books.Testament Books AND 14 Apocrypha Books.

1st Century AD: Completion of All Original 1st Century AD: Completion of All Original Greek Manuscripts which make up The 27 Greek Manuscripts which make up The 27 Books of the New Testament.Books of the New Testament.

315 AD: Athenasius, the Bishop of Alexandria, 315 AD: Athenasius, the Bishop of Alexandria, identifies the 27 books of the New Testament identifies the 27 books of the New Testament which are today recognized as the canon of which are today recognized as the canon of scripture.scripture.

382 AD: Jerome's Latin Vulgate Manuscripts 382 AD: Jerome's Latin Vulgate Manuscripts Produced which contain All 80 Books (39 Old Produced which contain All 80 Books (39 Old Test. + 14 Apocrypha + 27 New Test).Test. + 14 Apocrypha + 27 New Test).

500 AD: Scriptures have been Translated into 500 AD: Scriptures have been Translated into Over 500 Languages.Over 500 Languages.

600 AD: LATIN was the Only Language Allowed 600 AD: LATIN was the Only Language Allowed for Scripture.for Scripture.

995 AD: Anglo-Saxon (Early Roots of English 995 AD: Anglo-Saxon (Early Roots of English Language) Translations of The New Testament Language) Translations of The New Testament Produced.Produced.

1384 AD: Wycliffe is the First Person to 1384 AD: Wycliffe is the First Person to Produce a (Hand-Written) manuscript Copy of Produce a (Hand-Written) manuscript Copy of the Complete Bible; All 80 Books.the Complete Bible; All 80 Books.



(Printing Press to (Printing Press to Modern Day)Modern Day)

1455 AD: Gutenberg Invents the Printing Press; Books May Now be 1455 AD: Gutenberg Invents the Printing Press; Books May Now be mass-Produced Instead of Individually Hand-Written. The First Book mass-Produced Instead of Individually Hand-Written. The First Book Ever Printed is Gutenberg's Bible in Latin.Ever Printed is Gutenberg's Bible in Latin.

1516 AD: Erasmus Produces a Greek/Latin Parallel New Testament.1516 AD: Erasmus Produces a Greek/Latin Parallel New Testament. 1522 AD: Martin Luther's German New Testament.1522 AD: Martin Luther's German New Testament. 1526 AD: William Tyndale's New Testament; The First New 1526 AD: William Tyndale's New Testament; The First New

Testament printed in the English Language.Testament printed in the English Language. 1535 AD: Myles Coverdale's Bible; The First Complete Bible printed 1535 AD: Myles Coverdale's Bible; The First Complete Bible printed

in the English Language (80 Books: O.T. & N.T. & Apocrypha).in the English Language (80 Books: O.T. & N.T. & Apocrypha). 1537 AD: Tyndale-Matthews Bible; The Second Complete Bible 1537 AD: Tyndale-Matthews Bible; The Second Complete Bible

printed in English. Done by John "Thomas Matthew" Rogers (80 printed in English. Done by John "Thomas Matthew" Rogers (80 Books).Books).

1539 AD: The "Great Bible" Printed; The First English Language 1539 AD: The "Great Bible" Printed; The First English Language Bible Authorized for Public Use (80 Books).Bible Authorized for Public Use (80 Books).

1560 AD: The Geneva Bible Printed; The First English Language 1560 AD: The Geneva Bible Printed; The First English Language Bible to add Numbered Verses to Each Chapter (80 Books).Bible to add Numbered Verses to Each Chapter (80 Books).

1568 AD: The Bishops Bible Printed; The Bible of which the King 1568 AD: The Bishops Bible Printed; The Bible of which the King James was a Revision (80 Books).James was a Revision (80 Books).

1609 AD: The Douay Old Testament is added to the Rheims New 1609 AD: The Douay Old Testament is added to the Rheims New Testament (of 1582) Making the First Complete English Catholic Testament (of 1582) Making the First Complete English Catholic Bible; Translated from the Latin Vulgate (80 Books).Bible; Translated from the Latin Vulgate (80 Books).

1611 AD: The King James Bible Printed; Originally with All 80 1611 AD: The King James Bible Printed; Originally with All 80 Books. The Apocrypha was Officially Removed in 1885 Leaving Only Books. The Apocrypha was Officially Removed in 1885 Leaving Only 66 Books.66 Books.

1782 AD: Robert Aitken's Bible; The First English Language Bible 1782 AD: Robert Aitken's Bible; The First English Language Bible (KJV) Printed in America.(KJV) Printed in America.

1791 AD: Isaac Collins and Isaiah Thomas Respectively Produce the 1791 AD: Isaac Collins and Isaiah Thomas Respectively Produce the First Family Bible and First Illustrated Bible Printed in America. Both First Family Bible and First Illustrated Bible Printed in America. Both were King James Versions, with All 80 Books.were King James Versions, with All 80 Books.

1808 AD: Jane Aitken's Bible (Daughter of Robert Aitken); The First 1808 AD: Jane Aitken's Bible (Daughter of Robert Aitken); The First Bible to be Printed by a Woman.Bible to be Printed by a Woman.

1833 AD: Noah Webster's Bible; After Producing his Famous 1833 AD: Noah Webster's Bible; After Producing his Famous Dictionary, Webster Printed his Own Revision of the King James Dictionary, Webster Printed his Own Revision of the King James Bible.Bible.

1841 AD: English Hexapla New Testament; an Early Textual 1841 AD: English Hexapla New Testament; an Early Textual Comparison showing the Greek and 6 Famous English Translations Comparison showing the Greek and 6 Famous English Translations in Parallel Columns.in Parallel Columns.

1846 AD: The Illuminated Bible; The Most Lavishly Illustrated Bible 1846 AD: The Illuminated Bible; The Most Lavishly Illustrated Bible printed in America. A King James Version, with All 80 Books.printed in America. A King James Version, with All 80 Books.

1885 AD: The "English Revised Version" Bible; The First Major 1885 AD: The "English Revised Version" Bible; The First Major English Revision of the KJV.English Revision of the KJV.



(Modern Day (Modern Day Translations)Translations)

1901 AD: The "American Standard 1901 AD: The "American Standard Version"; The First Major Version"; The First Major American Revision of the KJV.American Revision of the KJV.

1971 AD: The "New American 1971 AD: The "New American Standard Bible" (NASB) is Standard Bible" (NASB) is Published as a "Modern and Published as a "Modern and Accurate Word for Word English Accurate Word for Word English Translation" of the Bible.Translation" of the Bible.

1973 AD: The "New International 1973 AD: The "New International Version" (NIV) is Published as a Version" (NIV) is Published as a "Modern and Accurate Phrase for "Modern and Accurate Phrase for Phrase English Translation" of the Phrase English Translation" of the Bible.Bible.

1982 AD: The "New King James 1982 AD: The "New King James Version" (NKJV) is Published as a Version" (NKJV) is Published as a "Modern English Version "Modern English Version Maintaining the Original Style of Maintaining the Original Style of the King James."the King James."

2002 AD: The English Standard 2002 AD: The English Standard Version (ESV) is Published as a Version (ESV) is Published as a translation to bridge the gap translation to bridge the gap between the accuracy of the between the accuracy of the NASB and the readability of the NASB and the readability of the NIV.NIV.

Divine Characteristics of the Bible

-Perfection (inerrant – Psalm 19:7)

-Purpose (redemption of humanity Isaiah 55:11/Luke 19:10)

-Prophecy (unbreakable promises Matthew 5:18, John 10:35,5:9,5:46, Luke 24:27, Deut. 18, Psalm 22, Isaiah 53)

-Power (millions of changed lives – 2 Corinthians 5:15-17)

-Preservation (Matthew 24:35, Mark 13:31, Luke 21:33)

BibliologyBibliology– – Is the Bible written by God Is the Bible written by God

or man?or man?

- Is the Bible without error?Is the Bible without error?

- Is the Bible sufficient – Is the Bible sufficient – everything I need for life everything I need for life and godliness?and godliness?

HOW WE GOT OUR BIBLEwww.biblebb.com/files/howbible.htmBy Dr. MIKE VLACH President of Theological Studies.org www.theologicalstudies.org

M.A.P.S.M.A.P.S.M-A-P-S to Guide You through Biblical ReliabilityM-A-P-S to Guide You through Biblical Reliabilityby Hank Hanegraaffby Hank Hanegraaff Use M-A-P-S to guide you through Biblical reliability:Use M-A-P-S to guide you through Biblical reliability:MManuscripts, anuscripts, AArchaeology, rchaeology, PProphecy, rophecy, SStatisticstatistics Have you tried to show someone the historical reliability of the Scriptures, and not Have you tried to show someone the historical reliability of the Scriptures, and not

known where to start? A quick trip to your local well-stocked Christian bookstore known where to start? A quick trip to your local well-stocked Christian bookstore likely will overwhelm you. Where among the dozens of impressive, likely will overwhelm you. Where among the dozens of impressive, comprehensive reference books should you start?comprehensive reference books should you start?

Fortunately, while there is a wealth of information available to support the reliability Fortunately, while there is a wealth of information available to support the reliability

of Scripture, you don’t have to burn, the midnight oil to give a reasonable answer of Scripture, you don’t have to burn, the midnight oil to give a reasonable answer to those who ask, “How can we know the Bible is reliable?” Four basic principle to those who ask, “How can we know the Bible is reliable?” Four basic principle chart your way to understanding basic biblical reliability.chart your way to understanding basic biblical reliability.

To help you remember, I’ve developed the simple acronym To help you remember, I’ve developed the simple acronym “MAPS.”“MAPS.” Remember Remember

the word the word MAPSMAPS and you will be able to chart Bible reliability. and you will be able to chart Bible reliability.

Manuscripts (OT)Manuscripts (OT) MManuscripts relates to the tests used to determine the reliability of the extant anuscripts relates to the tests used to determine the reliability of the extant

manuscript copies of the manuscript copies of the originaloriginal documents penned by the Scripture writers (we documents penned by the Scripture writers (we do not possess these originals). In determining manuscript reliability, we deal do not possess these originals). In determining manuscript reliability, we deal with the question: How can we test to see that the text we possess in the with the question: How can we test to see that the text we possess in the manuscript manuscript copiescopies is an accurate rendition of the is an accurate rendition of the originaloriginal? There are three main ? There are three main manuscript tests: the manuscript tests: the BBibliographic, ibliographic, EEyewitness, and yewitness, and EExternal (a second xternal (a second acronym — acronym — BEEBEE — will help you remember these). — will help you remember these).

The The bbibliographic test considers the quantity of manuscripts and manuscript ibliographic test considers the quantity of manuscripts and manuscript

fragments, and also the time span between the original documents and our fragments, and also the time span between the original documents and our earliest copies. The more copies, the better able we are to work back to the earliest copies. The more copies, the better able we are to work back to the original. The closer the time span between the copies and the original, the less original. The closer the time span between the copies and the original, the less likely it is that serious textual error would creep in. The Bible has stronger likely it is that serious textual error would creep in. The Bible has stronger bibliographic support than any classical literature — including Homer, Tacitus, bibliographic support than any classical literature — including Homer, Tacitus, Pliny, and Aristotle.Pliny, and Aristotle.

We have more than 14,000 manuscripts and fragments of the Old Testament of We have more than 14,000 manuscripts and fragments of the Old Testament of

three main types: (a) approximately 10,000 from the Cairo Geniza (storeroom) three main types: (a) approximately 10,000 from the Cairo Geniza (storeroom) find of 1897, dating back as far as about AD. 800; (b) about 190 from the Dead find of 1897, dating back as far as about AD. 800; (b) about 190 from the Dead Sea Scrolls find of 1947-1955, the oldest dating back to 250-200 B.C.; and (c) at Sea Scrolls find of 1947-1955, the oldest dating back to 250-200 B.C.; and (c) at least 4,314 assorted other copies. The short time between the original Old least 4,314 assorted other copies. The short time between the original Old Testament manuscripts (completed around 400 B.C.) and the first extensive Testament manuscripts (completed around 400 B.C.) and the first extensive copies (about 250 B.C.) — coupled with the more than 14,000 copies that have copies (about 250 B.C.) — coupled with the more than 14,000 copies that have been discovered — ensures the trustworthiness of the Old Testament text. The been discovered — ensures the trustworthiness of the Old Testament text. The earliest quoted verses (Num. 6:24-26) date from 800-700 B.C.earliest quoted verses (Num. 6:24-26) date from 800-700 B.C.

Manuscripts (OT)Manuscripts (OT) The same is true of the New Testament text. The abundance of textual witnesses is amazing. We possess The same is true of the New Testament text. The abundance of textual witnesses is amazing. We possess

over 5,300 manuscripts or portions of the (Greek) New Testament — almost 800 copied before A.D. 1000. over 5,300 manuscripts or portions of the (Greek) New Testament — almost 800 copied before A.D. 1000. The time between the original composition and our earliest copies is an unbelievably short 60 years or so. The time between the original composition and our earliest copies is an unbelievably short 60 years or so. The overwhelming The overwhelming bibliographicbibliographic reliability of the Bible is clearly evident. reliability of the Bible is clearly evident.

The eyewitness document test (The eyewitness document test (“E”“E”), sometimes referred to as the ), sometimes referred to as the internal testinternal test, focuses on the eyewitness , focuses on the eyewitness

credentials of the authors. The Old and New Testament authors were eyewitnesses of — or credentials of the authors. The Old and New Testament authors were eyewitnesses of — or interviewedinterviewed eyewitnesses of — the majority of the events they described. Moses participated in and was an eyewitnesses of — the majority of the events they described. Moses participated in and was an eyewitness of the remarkable events of the Egyptian captivity, the Exodus, the forty years in the desert, eyewitness of the remarkable events of the Egyptian captivity, the Exodus, the forty years in the desert, and Israel’s final encampment before entering the Promised Land. These events he chronicled in the first and Israel’s final encampment before entering the Promised Land. These events he chronicled in the first five books of the Old Testament.five books of the Old Testament.

The New Testament writers had the same eyewitness authenticity. Luke, who wrote the Books of Luke and The New Testament writers had the same eyewitness authenticity. Luke, who wrote the Books of Luke and

Acts, says that he gathered eyewitness testimony and “carefully investigated everything” (Luke 1:1-3). Acts, says that he gathered eyewitness testimony and “carefully investigated everything” (Luke 1:1-3). Peter reminded his readers that the disciples “were eyewitnesses of [Jesus’] majesty” and “did not follow Peter reminded his readers that the disciples “were eyewitnesses of [Jesus’] majesty” and “did not follow cleverly invented stories” (2 Pet. 1:16). Truly, the Bible affirms the cleverly invented stories” (2 Pet. 1:16). Truly, the Bible affirms the eyewitnesseyewitness credibility of its writers. credibility of its writers.

The The eexternal evidence test looks xternal evidence test looks outsideoutside the texts themselves to ascertain the historical reliability of the the texts themselves to ascertain the historical reliability of the

historical events, geographical locations, and cultural consistency of the biblical texts. Unlike writings from historical events, geographical locations, and cultural consistency of the biblical texts. Unlike writings from other world religions which make no historical references or which fabricate histories, the Bible refers to other world religions which make no historical references or which fabricate histories, the Bible refers to historical events and assumes its historical accuracy. The Bible is historical events and assumes its historical accuracy. The Bible is not onlynot only the inspired Word of God, it is the inspired Word of God, it is also a history book — and the historical assertions it makes have been proven time and again.also a history book — and the historical assertions it makes have been proven time and again.

Many of the events, people, places, and customs in the New Testament are confirmed by secular historians Many of the events, people, places, and customs in the New Testament are confirmed by secular historians

who were almost contemporaries with New Testament writers. Secular historians like the Jewish who were almost contemporaries with New Testament writers. Secular historians like the Jewish Josephus (before A.D. 100), the Roman Tacitus (around A.D. 120), the Roman Suetonius (A.D. 110), and Josephus (before A.D. 100), the Roman Tacitus (around A.D. 120), the Roman Suetonius (A.D. 110), and the Roman governor Pliny Secundus (A.D. 100-110) make direct reference to Jesus or affirm one or more the Roman governor Pliny Secundus (A.D. 100-110) make direct reference to Jesus or affirm one or more historical New Testament references. Early church leaders such as Irenaeus, Tertullian, Julius Africanus, historical New Testament references. Early church leaders such as Irenaeus, Tertullian, Julius Africanus, and Clement of Rome — all writing before A.D. 250 — shed light on New Testament historical accuracy. and Clement of Rome — all writing before A.D. 250 — shed light on New Testament historical accuracy. Even skeptical historians agree that the New Testament is a remarkable historical document. Hence, it is Even skeptical historians agree that the New Testament is a remarkable historical document. Hence, it is clear that there is strong clear that there is strong external evidenceexternal evidence to support the Bible’s manuscript reliability. to support the Bible’s manuscript reliability.

John Ryland John Ryland papyrus p52 papyrus p52 fragment of fragment of

John 18 John 18 written written

around 98-138 AD.around 98-138 AD.

Codex Codex Sinaiticus Sinaiticus (01) Mid-(01) Mid-

Fourth Cent. Fourth Cent.

Cursives or Cursives or MinusculesMinuscules

There are at least There are at least 2,764 cursive New 2,764 cursive New Testament manuscripts Testament manuscripts known today. On the known today. On the right is a cursive right is a cursive manuscript of John 1 manuscript of John 1 from about 1022 AD. from about 1022 AD.

ArchaeologyArchaeologyReturning to our Returning to our MAPSMAPS acronym, we have established ,the first principle, acronym, we have established ,the first principle,

mmanuscript reliability. Let us consider our second principle, anuscript reliability. Let us consider our second principle, aarchaeological evidence. Over and over again, comprehensive field rchaeological evidence. Over and over again, comprehensive field work (archaeology) and careful biblical interpretation affirms the work (archaeology) and careful biblical interpretation affirms the reliability of the Bible. It is telling when a secular scholar must revise his reliability of the Bible. It is telling when a secular scholar must revise his biblical criticism in light of solid archaeological evidence.biblical criticism in light of solid archaeological evidence.

For years critics dismissed the Book of Daniel, partly because there was no For years critics dismissed the Book of Daniel, partly because there was no

evidence that a king named Belshazzar ruled in Babylon during that evidence that a king named Belshazzar ruled in Babylon during that time period. However, later archaeological research confirmed that the time period. However, later archaeological research confirmed that the reigning monarch, Nabonidus, appointed Belshazzar as his co-regent reigning monarch, Nabonidus, appointed Belshazzar as his co-regent whi1e he was away from Babylon.whi1e he was away from Babylon.

One of the most well-known New Testament examples concerns the Books One of the most well-known New Testament examples concerns the Books

of Luke and Acts. A biblical skeptic, Sir William Ramsay, trained as an of Luke and Acts. A biblical skeptic, Sir William Ramsay, trained as an archaeologist and then set out to disprove the historical reliability of this archaeologist and then set out to disprove the historical reliability of this portion of the New Testament. However, through his painstaking portion of the New Testament. However, through his painstaking Mediterranean archaeological trips, he became converted as — one Mediterranean archaeological trips, he became converted as — one after another — of the historical statements of Luke were proved after another — of the historical statements of Luke were proved accurate. Archaeological evidence thus confirms the trustworthiness of accurate. Archaeological evidence thus confirms the trustworthiness of the Bible.the Bible.

Examples of Archeology confirming Examples of Archeology confirming the TRUTHFULNESS of the Biblethe TRUTHFULNESS of the Bible

Ancient Tyre (verification of Ezekiel 26 prophecy – Ancient Tyre (verification of Ezekiel 26 prophecy – Nebuchadnezzar and Alexander the Great)Nebuchadnezzar and Alexander the Great)

Jericho (verification of Joshua’s conquest) Jericho (verification of Joshua’s conquest) Ebla Tablets (cities of Genesis 19)Ebla Tablets (cities of Genesis 19) Cities of the Bible - TRUECities of the Bible - TRUE History of the Bible (Acts) - TRUEHistory of the Bible (Acts) - TRUE Culture of the Bible - TRUECulture of the Bible - TRUE Archeologists have been savedArcheologists have been saved Archeologists use the Bible as their compass to Archeologists use the Bible as their compass to

discoveries because it is TRUSTWORTHYdiscoveries because it is TRUSTWORTHY

ProphecyProphecyThe third principle of Bible reliability is Prophecy, or predictive ability. The Bible records The third principle of Bible reliability is Prophecy, or predictive ability. The Bible records

predictions of events that could not be known or predicted by chance or common sense. predictions of events that could not be known or predicted by chance or common sense. Surprisingly, the predictive nature of many Bible passages was once a popular argument Surprisingly, the predictive nature of many Bible passages was once a popular argument (by liberals) (by liberals) againstagainst the reliability of the Bible. Critics argued that the prophecies actually the reliability of the Bible. Critics argued that the prophecies actually were written after the events and that editors had merely dressed up the Bible text to look were written after the events and that editors had merely dressed up the Bible text to look like they contained predictions made before the events. Nothing could be further from the like they contained predictions made before the events. Nothing could be further from the truth, however. The many predictions of Christ’s birth, life and death (see below) were truth, however. The many predictions of Christ’s birth, life and death (see below) were indisputably rendered more than a century before they occurred as proven by the Dead indisputably rendered more than a century before they occurred as proven by the Dead Sea Scrolls of Isaiah and other prophetic books as well as by the Septuagint translation, all Sea Scrolls of Isaiah and other prophetic books as well as by the Septuagint translation, all dating from earlier than 100 B.C.dating from earlier than 100 B.C.

Old Testament prophecies concerning the Phoenician city of Tyre were fulfilled in ancient Old Testament prophecies concerning the Phoenician city of Tyre were fulfilled in ancient

times, including prophecies that the city would be opposed by many nations (Ezek. 26:3); times, including prophecies that the city would be opposed by many nations (Ezek. 26:3); its walls would be destroyed and towers broken down (26:4); and its stones, timbers, and its walls would be destroyed and towers broken down (26:4); and its stones, timbers, and debris would be thrown into the water (26:12). Similar prophecies were fulfilled concerning debris would be thrown into the water (26:12). Similar prophecies were fulfilled concerning Sidon (Ezek. 28:23; Isa. 23; Jer. 27:3-6; 47:4) and Babylon (Jer. 50:13, 39; 51:26, 42-43, Sidon (Ezek. 28:23; Isa. 23; Jer. 27:3-6; 47:4) and Babylon (Jer. 50:13, 39; 51:26, 42-43, 58; Isa. 13:20-21).58; Isa. 13:20-21).

Since Christ is the culminating theme of the Old Testament and the Living Word of the New Since Christ is the culminating theme of the Old Testament and the Living Word of the New

Testament, it should not surprise us that prophecies regarding Him outnumber any others. Testament, it should not surprise us that prophecies regarding Him outnumber any others. Many of these prophecies would have been impossible for Jesus to deliberately conspire Many of these prophecies would have been impossible for Jesus to deliberately conspire to fulfill — such as His descent from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Gen. 12:3; 17:19; Num. to fulfill — such as His descent from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Gen. 12:3; 17:19; Num. 24:21-24); His birth in Bethlehem (Mic. 5:2); His crucifixion with criminals (Isa. 53:12); the 24:21-24); His birth in Bethlehem (Mic. 5:2); His crucifixion with criminals (Isa. 53:12); the piercing of His hands and feet at the crucifixion (Ps. 22:16); the soldiers’ gambling for His piercing of His hands and feet at the crucifixion (Ps. 22:16); the soldiers’ gambling for His clothes (Ps. 22:18); the piercing of His side and the fact that His bones were not broken at clothes (Ps. 22:18); the piercing of His side and the fact that His bones were not broken at His death (Zech. 12:10; Ps. 34:20); and His burial among the rich (Isa. 53:9). Jesus also His death (Zech. 12:10; Ps. 34:20); and His burial among the rich (Isa. 53:9). Jesus also predicted His own death and resurrection (John 2:19-22). predicted His own death and resurrection (John 2:19-22). Predictive ProphecyPredictive Prophecy is a is a principle of Bible reliability that often reaches even the hard-boiled skeptic!principle of Bible reliability that often reaches even the hard-boiled skeptic!

Concerning his birth Concerning his birth Concerning his birthConcerning his birth ProphesiedProphesied FulfilledFulfilled

1. Born of the seed of woman1. Born of the seed of woman Gen 3:15Gen 3:15 Gal 4:4 Gal 4:4

2. Born of a virgin2. Born of a virgin Isa 7:14Isa 7:14 Mt 1:18-25 Mt 1:18-25

3. Seed of Abraham3. Seed of Abraham Gen 22:18Gen 22:18 Mt 1:1Mt 1:1

4. Seed of Isaac4. Seed of Isaac Gen 21:12Gen 21:12 Lk 3:23+34 Lk 3:23+34

5. Seed of Jacob5. Seed of Jacob Num 24:17Num 24:17 Lk 3:34Lk 3:34

6. Seed of David6. Seed of David Jer 23:5Jer 23:5 Lk 3:31Lk 3:31

7. Tribe of Judah7. Tribe of Judah Gen 49:10Gen 49:10 Rev 5:5Rev 5:5

8. Family line of Jesse8. Family line of Jesse Isa 11:1Isa 11:1 Lk 3:32 Lk 3:32

9. Born in Bethlehem9. Born in Bethlehem Mic 5:2Mic 5:2 Mt 2:1-6 Mt 2:1-6

10. Herod kills the children10. Herod kills the children Jer 31:15Jer 31:15 Mt 2:16-18 Mt 2:16-18

Concerning his nature Concerning his nature

Concerning his nature Concerning his nature Prophesied Prophesied Fulfilled Fulfilled

11. He pre-existed creation11. He pre-existed creation Mic 5:2Mic 5:2 1 Pet 1:20 1 Pet 1:20

12. He shall be called Lord12. He shall be called Lord Ps 110:1Ps 110:1 Acts 2:36 Acts 2:36

13. Called Immanuel (God with us)13. Called Immanuel (God with us) Isa 7:14Isa 7:14 Mt 1:22-23Mt 1:22-23

14. Prophet14. Prophet Deut 18:18-19Deut 18:18-19 Acts 3:18-25Acts 3:18-25

15. Priest15. Priest Ps 110:4Ps 110:4 Heb 5:5-6Heb 5:5-6

16. Judge16. Judge Isa 33:22Isa 33:22 Jn 5:22-23Jn 5:22-23

17. King17. King Ps 2:6Ps 2:6 Jn 18:33-37Jn 18:33-37

18. Anointed by the Spirit18. Anointed by the Spirit Isa 11:2Isa 11:2 Mt 3:16-17 Mt 3:16-17

19. His zeal for God19. His zeal for God Ps 69:9Ps 69:9 Jn 2:15-17 Jn 2:15-17

Concerning his ministry Concerning his ministry

Concerning his ministry Concerning his ministry Prophesied Prophesied Fulfilled Fulfilled

20. Preceded by a messenger20. Preceded by a messenger Isa 40:3Isa 40:3 Mt 3:1-3 Mt 3:1-3

21. To begin in Galilee21. To begin in Galilee Isa 9:1-2Isa 9:1-2 Mt 4:12-17 Mt 4:12-17

22. Ministry of Miracles22. Ministry of Miracles Isa 35:5-6Isa 35:5-6 Mt 9:35;11:4 Mt 9:35;11:4

23. Teacher of parables23. Teacher of parables Ps 78:1-4Ps 78:1-4 Mt 13:34-35 Mt 13:34-35

24. He was to enter the temple24. He was to enter the temple Mal 3:1Mal 3:1 Mt 21:10-12 Mt 21:10-12

25. Enter Jerusalem on donkey25. Enter Jerusalem on donkey Zech 9:9Zech 9:9 Mt 21:1-7 Mt 21:1-7

26. Stone of stumbling to Jews26. Stone of stumbling to Jews Isa 28:16; Ps 118:22 Isa 28:16; Ps 118:22 1 Pet 2:6-81 Pet 2:6-8

27. Light to Gentiles27. Light to Gentiles Isa 49:6Isa 49:6 Acts 13:46-48 Acts 13:46-48

The day Jesus was crucified The day Jesus was crucified

The day Jesus was crucified The day Jesus was crucified Prophesied Prophesied Fulfilled Fulfilled

28. Betrayed by a friend28. Betrayed by a friend Ps 41:9Ps 41:9 Jn 13:18-27 Jn 13:18-27

29. Sold for 30 pieces of silver29. Sold for 30 pieces of silver Zech 11:12Zech 11:12 Mt 26:14-15Mt 26:14-15

30. 30 pieces thrown in Temple30. 30 pieces thrown in Temple Zech 11:13Zech 11:13 Mt 27:3-5Mt 27:3-5

31. 30 pieces buys potters field31. 30 pieces buys potters field Zech 11:13Zech 11:13 Mt 27:6-10Mt 27:6-10

32. Forsaken by His disciples32. Forsaken by His disciples Zech 13:7Zech 13:7 Mk 14:27+50 Mk 14:27+50

33. Accused by false witnesses33. Accused by false witnesses Ps 35:11+20-21 Ps 35:11+20-21 Mt 26:59-61Mt 26:59-61

34. Silent before accusers34. Silent before accusers Isa 53:7Isa 53:7 Mt 27:12-14 Mt 27:12-14

35. Wounded and bruised35. Wounded and bruised Isa 53:4-6Isa 53:4-6 1 Pet 2:21-25 1 Pet 2:21-25

36. Beaten and spit upon36. Beaten and spit upon Isa 50:6Isa 50:6 Mt 26:67-68 Mt 26:67-68

37. Mocked37. Mocked Ps 22:6-8Ps 22:6-8 Mt 27:27-31Mt 27:27-31

38. Fell under the cross38. Fell under the cross Ps 109:24-25Ps 109:24-25 Jn 19:17; Lk23:26 Jn 19:17; Lk23:26

39. Hands and feet pierced39. Hands and feet pierced Ps 22:16Ps 22:16 Jn 20:24-28 Jn 20:24-28



40. Crucified with thieves40. Crucified with thieves Isa 53:12Isa 53:12 Mt 27:38 Mt 27:38

41. Prayed for enemies41. Prayed for enemies Isa 53:12Isa 53:12 Lk 23:34 Lk 23:34

42. Rejected by His own people42. Rejected by His own people Isa 53:3Isa 53:3 Jn 19:14-15 Jn 19:14-15

43. Hated without cause43. Hated without cause Ps 69:4Ps 69:4 Jn 15:25 Jn 15:25

44. Friends stood aloof44. Friends stood aloof Ps 38:11Ps 38:11 Lk22:54;23:49 Lk22:54;23:49

45. People wag their heads45. People wag their heads Ps 22:7;109:25Ps 22:7;109:25 Mt 27:39Mt 27:39

46. People stared at Him46. People stared at Him Ps 22:17Ps 22:17 Lk 23:35 Lk 23:35

47. Cloths divided and gambled for47. Cloths divided and gambled for Ps 22:18Ps 22:18 Jn 19:23-24Jn 19:23-24

48. Became very thirsty48. Became very thirsty Ps 22:15Ps 22:15 Jn 19:28 Jn 19:28

49. Gall and vinegar offered Him49. Gall and vinegar offered Him Ps 69:21Ps 69:21 Mt 27:34Mt 27:34

50. His forsaken cry50. His forsaken cry Ps 22:1Ps 22:1 Mt 27:46 Mt 27:46



51. Committed Himself to God51. Committed Himself to God Ps 31:5Ps 31:5 Lk 23:46 Lk 23:46

52. Bones not broken52. Bones not broken Ps 34:20Ps 34:20 Jn 19:32-36 Jn 19:32-36

53. Heart broken53. Heart broken Ps 69:20;22:14Ps 69:20;22:14 Jn 19:34 Jn 19:34

54. His side pierced54. His side pierced Zech 12:10Zech 12:10 Jn 19:34+37 Jn 19:34+37

55. Darkness over the land55. Darkness over the land Amos 8:9Amos 8:9 Lk 23:44-45 Lk 23:44-45

56. Buried in rich man's tomb56. Buried in rich man's tomb Isa 53:9Isa 53:9 Mt 27:57-60 Mt 27:57-60

His Resurrection & Ascension His Resurrection & Ascension

His Resurrection & Ascension His Resurrection & Ascension Prophesied Prophesied Fulfilled Fulfilled

57. Raised from the dead57. Raised from the dead Ps 16:8-11Ps 16:8-11 Acts 2:24-31 Acts 2:24-31

58. Begotten as Son of God58. Begotten as Son of God Ps 2:7Ps 2:7 Acts 13:32-35 Acts 13:32-35

59. Ascended to God59. Ascended to God Ps 68:18Ps 68:18 Eph 2:8-10 Eph 2:8-10

60. Seated beside God60. Seated beside God Ps 110:1Ps 110:1 Heb 1:3+13 Heb 1:3+13

StatisticsStatistics Our fourth Our fourth MAPSMAPS principle works well with predictive prophecy, because it is Statistically principle works well with predictive prophecy, because it is Statistically

preposterous that any or all of the Bible’s very specific, detailed prophecies could have preposterous that any or all of the Bible’s very specific, detailed prophecies could have been fulfilled through chance, good guessing, or deliberate deceit. When you look at some been fulfilled through chance, good guessing, or deliberate deceit. When you look at some of the improbable prophecies of the Old and New Testaments, it seems incredible that of the improbable prophecies of the Old and New Testaments, it seems incredible that skeptics — knowing the authenticity and historicity of the texts — could reject the statistical skeptics — knowing the authenticity and historicity of the texts — could reject the statistical verdict: the Bible is the Word of God, and Jesus Christ is the Son of God, just as Scripture verdict: the Bible is the Word of God, and Jesus Christ is the Son of God, just as Scripture predicted many times and in many ways.predicted many times and in many ways.

The Bible was written over a span of 1500 years by forty different human authors in three The Bible was written over a span of 1500 years by forty different human authors in three

different languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek), on hundreds of subjects. And yet there different languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek), on hundreds of subjects. And yet there is one consistent, noncontradictory theme that runs through it all: is one consistent, noncontradictory theme that runs through it all: God’s redemption of God’s redemption of humankindhumankind. Clearly, Statistical probability is a powerful indicator of the trustworthiness of . Clearly, Statistical probability is a powerful indicator of the trustworthiness of Scripture.Scripture.

The next time someone denies the reliability of Scripture, just remember the acronym The next time someone denies the reliability of Scripture, just remember the acronym MAPSMAPS, ,

and you will be equipped to give an answer and a reason for the hope that lies within you and you will be equipped to give an answer and a reason for the hope that lies within you (1 Pet. 3:15). (1 Pet. 3:15). MManuscripts, anuscripts, AArchaeology, rchaeology, PProphecy, and rophecy, and SStatisticstatistics not only chart a secure not only chart a secure course on the turnpikes of skepticism but also demonstrate definitively that the Bible is course on the turnpikes of skepticism but also demonstrate definitively that the Bible is indeed divine rather than human in origin.indeed divine rather than human in origin.

The Importance, Inerrancy, and Sufficiency of Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:31, Psalm 18:30, 119, The Importance, Inerrancy, and Sufficiency of Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:31, Psalm 18:30, 119, Matthew 5:17, 22:29, Luke 4:21, 24:44, John 2:22, 5:39-46, John 10:35, 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Matthew 5:17, 22:29, Luke 4:21, 24:44, John 2:22, 5:39-46, John 10:35, 1 Timothy 4:13, 2 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 4:12, 1 Peter 1:10-12, 2 Peter 1:3-4, 20-21Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 4:12, 1 Peter 1:10-12, 2 Peter 1:3-4, 20-21

Documents

The Bible at a Glance 66 Books. What are Scriptures? 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and