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I was taught in my denominational days, that the Bible was the FINAL AUTHORITY! Who was I to question that? But as I grew in age, maturity, and Spirit, I discovered that the “textus receptus“, otherwise known as the King James version of the Bible had some problems (and I’m not talking eloquent and antiquated language). And then I discovered that there were other translations like the REB (Revised English Bible) that actually pointed out in the footnotes where the Biblical errors were. Say what? The Bible isn’t inerrant? Now what?

And then along comes Martin Luther (a long time ago you know) who further added to my perplexity who took the view that, “We should not believe the Scriptures because they are Scriptures; but because Christ, whom I am convinced in my conscience is the Truth, meets me in the Scriptures- therefore I believe.”

Now what?

Most know Martin Luther (1483 – 1546- was a German monk, theologian, and church reformer. He is also considered to be the founder of Protestantism) for his 95 theses and his role in the great Reformation, but how many were taught His views on the New Testament as a whole? Not many!

Luther even felt that some of the New Testament books should be excluded from the existing Canon.

His claim and teaching is that the “Word of God” is not identical to the words of Scriptures, although it is only given to us through the Scriptures. This is getting far too complex, don’t you agree? So, here’s where I have come to. See if you can handle these points.

1-The Bible is the Word of God (singular), not the “words of God” (plural). Otherwise, which words, which translation?

2-The Bible is the most sacred writing for any professing Christian though not inerrant

3-Since we have not even one original New Testament manuscript, we need to compare as many translations as possible because ultimately how one “translates” any phrase is highly subjective to say the least. We all come to the banquet table of the Bible with different eye glasses.

4-Since the Spirit of God is the common denominator of the Bible, we need to give at least as much weight to the prophetic, hearing, spiritual discernment of our own witness as we do the written word. Said another way, don’t make the Logos an idol over the rhema. After all Jesus is the spirit of prophecy and He is the central character of the New Testament. Right?

Have you have your hip broken recently?

I’m not talking literally here such as we find in Genesis 32:24, but I’m talking about your religious bubble!

PS. Wednesday I begin a series on the virgin birth that you can wrestle with at Beyond Theism.