The Breath of God: Understanding Inspiration
A study on the divine inspiration of Scripture.
1. The Nature of Inspiration
1.1 Divine Origin
Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21
- Scripture is 'God-breathed,' indicating its divine origin.
- Prophecy came not by human will, but by individuals moved by the Spirit.
1.2 Truth and Inerrancy
Verses: John 17:17; Psalm 119:160
- God's word is truth.
- The entirety of God's word is truth and endures forever.
2. The Scope of Inspiration
2.1 Completeness
Verses: Matthew 5:18; Luke 24:44
- Every jot and tittle of the Law will be fulfilled.
- All things written about the Messiah in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms must be fulfilled.
2.2 Spiritual Communication
Verses: 1 Corinthians 2:13; John 16:13
- Spiritual truths are communicated through Spirit-taught words.
- The Spirit guides into all truth.
3. The Human Element in Inspiration
3.1 Authorship and Research
Verses: Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1-3
- Writers often used research and eyewitness accounts.
- Writers compiled information to provide an accurate account.
3.2 The Role of the Author's Personality
Verses: 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Corinthians 7:10, 12
- Prophecy came not by human will, but by individuals moved by the Spirit.
- There is a distinction between the Lord's commands and the Apostle's judgment.
4. The Purpose of Inspiration
4.1 Salvation and Witness
Verses: 2 Timothy 3:15; John 5:39
- Scripture leads to salvation through faith in the Messiah.
- Scripture testifies of the Messiah.
4.2 Edification and Correction
Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12
- Scripture equips believers for every good work.
- The Word of God discerns the thoughts and intents of the heart.