Are There Contradictions in the Bible?

 The Bible's answer

No, the entire Bible is harmonious.  While some passages might seem to show the Bible contradicting itself, they can usually be understood correctly by applying one or more o fthe following principles: 

1.  Consider the contexy.  Any author can appear to contradict himself if his words are taken out of context.

2. Consider the writer's viewpoint  Eyewitnesses might describe an event accurately but not use the exact same wording or include the same details. 

3. Take into account historical facts and customs.

4. Distinguish between the figurative and the literal uses of the word.

5. Recognize that an action may be attributed to someone-even if he did not personally carry it out.

6. Use an accurate Bible translation.

7.  Avoid trying reconcile what the Bible says with mistaken religious ideas or dogma.

The following examples show how  these principles can explain some seeming inconsistencies in the Bible.

Principle 1. Context

If God rested on the seventh day, how has he continued working?  The context of the Genesis creation account shows that the statement that God " began to rest on th seventh day from all his work that he had been doing" refers specifically to his work of physical  creation respecting the earth.  (Genesis 2:2-4)  Jesus did not contradict this, however, when he said that God kept working until now," because he was talking about other works of God.  (John 5:17)  God's works include the inspiration  of the Bible and his guidance and care of mankind. - PSALM 20:6; 105:5; 1 PETER 1:21.

Next time: Are There Contradictions in the Bible? - Continue with The Bible"s  answer

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