Discussion Thread: Biblical Inerrancy
In the view of Erickson and as outlined in the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy,
the Bible contains no errors in anything it claims was originally given. Erickson points out that
inerrancy means the Bible, in both its original writings and in a correct understanding, always
tells the truth.1 It consists of scientific and historical knowledge as well, yet its chief purpose is to
offer a way to salvation. He also points out that interpreting language, genres and contexts is not
easy and urges us not to take meaning literally. Erickson makes it clear that inerrancy is possible
in the light of biblical language, approximations and the Bible’s varied styles. Scripture is
believed to be inerrant, not because of some doctrine, but because it reveals the truthful nature of
God himself.
I agree that the Bible, being free of error, is a basic teaching of the faith that secures
accurate Christian doctrine and is a reliable way to teach, correct and lead Christians. Because
God’s Word does not contain errors, we are sure about its meaning and able to live faithfully and
preach confidently. But this does not suggest that we cannot use detailed analysis or take into
account the context around the text. In fact, it encourages us to read Scripture while paying
attention to its purposes, what was happening at the time and how it was written. At a time when
truth is often questioned, insisting on inerrancy stops the Bible’s teaching and morals from
getting eroded. It indicates that the Bible should be seen as God’s own words, recorded for
people and has authority over us. As a result, upholding inerrancy is key to having a theology
that includes what God has truly said and planned.
.Millard J. Erickson, Christian Theology, 3rd ed. (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2013).
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In the view of Erickson and as outlined in the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy,
the Bible contains no errors in anything it claims was originally given. Erickson points out that
inerrancy means the Bible, in both its original writings and in a correct understanding, always
tells the truth.1 It consists of scientific and historical knowledge as well, yet its chief purpose is to
offer a way to salvation. He also points out that interpreting language, genres and contexts is not
easy and urges us not to take meaning literally. Erickson makes it clear that inerrancy is possible
in the light of biblical language, approximations and the Bible’s varied styles. Scripture is
believed to be inerrant, not because of some doctrine, but because it reveals the truthful nature of
God himself.
I agree that the Bible, being free of error, is a basic teaching of the faith that secures
accurate Christian doctrine and is a reliable way to teach, correct and lead Christians. Because
God’s Word does not contain errors, we are sure about its meaning and able to live faithfully and
preach confidently. But this does not suggest that we cannot use detailed analysis or take into
account the context around the text. In fact, it encourages us to read Scripture while paying
attention to its purposes, what was happening at the time and how it was written. At a time when
truth is often questioned, insisting on inerrancy stops the Bible’s teaching and morals from
getting eroded. It indicates that the Bible should be seen as God’s own words, recorded for
people and has authority over us. As a result, upholding inerrancy is key to having a theology
that includes what God has truly said and planned.
.Millard J. Erickson, Christian Theology, 3rd ed. (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2013).
1
