Internal Evidence
Introduction:
I’m Pete. God loves you!
The topic today: Are there qualities within the Scriptures themselves that support their authenticity?
Let’s see what internal evidence involves and identify some instances in Scripture. We need to know we can trust our Bible.
Self-Contained Proof
Evidence can be found within the Bible itself that verifies its integrity.
Unity
The Bible’s ability to give a united message despite having been recorded by various writers over thousands of years.
Internal Endorsement
Quotation or referencing of one portion of Scripture by another.
Fulfillment
Fulfillment of specific predictions, however unusual and detailed.
Accuracy
Accuracy and consistency of mentioned historical events, facts, and geography.
Examples
Jesus, the Head of the Church, used both the overview portion within Genesis (“God made them male and female”) and the detailed portion within Genesis (“they two shall be one flesh”) in a single argument regarding divorce. His harmonious use of both portions is recorded in Matthew 19:4-6 and again in Mark 10:6-8. By this we know that both portions within Genesis can, and should, be included within Genesis, the Bible, and be harmonized.
Jesus, in Luke 22:37, quotes Isaiah 53:12. Jesus, in Luke 4:18-19, quotes Isaiah 61:1-2. These have to do with how Jesus would be treated, and His ministry. Here we see unity, internal endorsement, fulfillment, and accuracy.
Jesus uses the Old Testament writings to counter temptation by responding three times from Deuteronomy. This is recorded in Matthew 4:4, 4:7, and 4:10.
The Apostle Paul’s writings are filled with references to the Old Testament. For instance, in 1 Timothy 2:13-14, under inspiration of God, Paul references the detailed portion of the Genesis account that states plainly that Adam was formed first, and then Eve, to correct false teachings.
Other examples are far too numerous to mention here. So please try to notice them as you read. Beware of teachings that try to isolate one portion of the Bible from another or disqualify a portion of the Bible. You can trust God’s Word, the Bible.
Call to Action
If we want unity in the Church, we must accept the unity of the Bible. We do not want unity in the Church at any cost! (That’s the reason for the Reformation of the Church ignited by God, using Martin Luther.) Refusing to accept the unity of the Bible has created error and disunity in the Church, our homes, and society! So kindly apply this vital teaching as able.
And May God Bless You!