What Is the Bible?
It’s not a book of moral lessons as some people think. It’s not a compilation of human opinions about the divine. It’s not folklore or myth or merely historical literature. The Bible is the Word of God—every word, every page, every promise.
In the clearest, most confessional sense, the Bible is God’s inspired, inerrant Word. As we read in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, and for training in righteousness.” Scripture is not people’s attempt to reach up to God—it is God reaching down to us with his truth, his promises, and his grace.
God-Breathed. Spirit-Given. Completely True.
The Bible does not simply contain God’s Word. It is God’s Word. From Genesis to Revelation, every word is inspired by the Holy Spirit—not just the thoughts or ideas, but the very words themselves (verbal inspiration).
That means the Scriptures are trustworthy—not just in matters of salvation, but in everything they affirm. Historical details, theological doctrines, even the uncomfortable parts we might be tempted to skip—all of it is from God. He does not lie. He does not change. His Word stands forever.
The Center Is Christ
While the Bible is many books in one, written by many human authors over centuries, it tells one unified story: God’s plan to redeem fallen humanity through his Son, Jesus Christ.
Jesus himself said in John 5:39, “You search the Scriptures because you think you have eternal life in them. They testify about me!” Every book, whether prophecy or poetry, gospel or letter, points to our Savior—his cross, his resurrection, and the life we now have through him.
The Bible is not a self-help manual. It is a life-giving Word that shows us our sin and points us to our Savior. The law convicts; the gospel comforts. The law exposes our need; the gospel meets that need with grace.
Sufficient, Clear, and Powerful
The Bible is enough. We don’t need new revelations, secret codes, or outside authorities. Scripture is sufficient for teaching, guiding, and growing in faith. It is also clear—not because every passage is easy, but because God reveals what is necessary for salvation in words we can understand through Spirit-worked faith.
And it is powerful. God’s Word doesn’t just inform—it transforms. As Isaiah says, “My word . . . will not return to me empty” (Isaiah 55:11). The Spirit works through the Word to bring hearts to faith, to strengthen weary souls, and to equip us for every good work.
A Prayer of Thanks for God’s Word
Lord, thank you for giving us your holy Word. In a world full of opinions and uncertainty, your truth never changes. Help me treasure the Scriptures—not just as a book to be read, but as your living voice, speaking grace and peace through Jesus. Let your Word dwell richly in my heart, and use it to shape my faith, my thoughts, and my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture references come from the Holy Bible: Evangelical Heritage Version. Click here to learn more about this translation.
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