The Bible: How We Received
Where did the Bible come from? You may have asked yourself this question at one time or another. For the answer we will look at what God says. That is always the best thing to do whenever you have a question or concern.
II Timothy 3:16:
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
The words “inspiration of God” mean God-breathed. The Greek words are theo-pneustos. This is a figure of speech that is used in the Bible to grab our attention. We also use figures of speech when we talk; for instance if we are hungry we might say, “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse!” This lets someone know that we are REALLY HUNGRY.
All of the verses in the Bible were given by God. Nobody sat down one day and decided to write the Bible. God told people what to write and they wrote it.
II Peter 1:21:
For the prophecy came not in old times by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
The “scriptures” are also referred to as “the prophecy” and they were written a long time ago by men who had holy spirit. Because of this God could speak to them and they could hear and do what He said.
Galatians 1:11 and 12:
But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.
For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Paul did not receive the instruction of what to write from men, but by revelation. It was revealed to him by God.
A long time ago God made a promise that He would put His spirit upon people. Let’s look at the book of Numbers to see this.
Numbers 11:17:
And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them.
Joshua 34:9:
And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom.
God chose to place His spirit upon certain people. Some of those who had the spirit upon them were given words by God. They wrote these words down so that you and I would be able to read them and learn about God. This is now known as The Bible. The God-breathed Word!
