The Bible is the Word of God: Understanding its Doctrine

Introduction

In contemporary discourse, there is a rising notion, even among some preachers, that the Bible is not the Word of God but rather contains the Word of God. 

This proposition challenges the Bible’s own claims of divine inspiration and authority. 

While it is true that the original manuscripts were directly inspired, this does not undermine the integrity of modern translations as the Word of God.

What is the Bible?

The Bible is often described as a collection of 66 books written by over 40 human authors under divine inspiration. 

The Apostle Peter asserts that holy men were moved by the Holy Spirit to write not their own ideas but God’s words (2 Peter 1:20-21). 

Similarly, the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, affirming that all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 

Therefore, the Bible is not an ordinary book but a supernatural one, filled with prophetic declarations and their fulfillment.

What is the Word of God?

The Bible encapsulates the Word of God. Every page is inspired by the Holy Spirit for our benefit. 

From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible reveals God’s counsel for humanity, offering guidance on how to live in relationship with Him. 

The Bible’s doctrinal teachings are divine directives for our lives, serving as God’s blueprint for moral and spiritual conduct.

The Nature and Work of the Word of God

Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) states, “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

This verse highlights both the nature and the work of the Word of God.

The Nature of the Word of God

1. Living: The Word of God is alive and active. Unlike any other text, it is dynamically relevant and perpetually fresh. The eternal nature of God ensures that His Word is ever-living, capable of bringing life to what is dead (John 6:63).

2. Powerful: The Word of God is powerful, carrying the divine authority to accomplish God’s will. Isaiah 55:11 underscores this truth, declaring that God’s Word does not return void but achieves its intended purpose.

3. Sharper: The Word is sharper than any two-edged sword, indicating its precision and effectiveness. It can penetrate the deepest parts of our being, effectively cutting through deception and sin to reveal truth and righteousness.

The Work of the Word of God

1. Pierces to the Division of Soul and Spirit: The Word of God can distinguish between the soul and spirit, as well as joints and marrow. This means it can separate our deepest thoughts and intents, exposing the true condition of our hearts. 

Jesus exemplified this discerning ability in John 2:25, where it is noted that He knew what was in a man’s heart.

2. Discerner of the Thoughts and Intents of the Heart: The Word of God judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. It reveals our inner motives and intentions, bringing them to light. 

In 1 Samuel 16:7, God tells Samuel that He looks at the heart, not the outward appearance, emphasizing His ability to see and evaluate our true selves.

Conclusion

The Bible, as the Word of God, is His revealed self to us. It provides a comprehensive guide for understanding who God is and how we are to relate to Him. 

By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we align our lives with God’s will rather than our own preconceptions.

Our attitude towards the Word of God should be like that of Ezra, who set his heart to study, obey, and teach the decrees and laws of the Lord (Ezra 7:10). 

As believers, let us treasure the Bible, allowing its divine truths to transform our lives. 

May His Word dwell in us richly, guiding us into deeper communion with Him and equipping us for every good work.