Learning on the way
Sermon Summary: The sermon addresses the reliability and trustworthiness of the Bible, countering common skeptical arguments that the Bible has been corrupted over time like a game of telephone. The pastor presents 10 key points about the Bible’s composition, transmission, and preservation, including its diverse authorship, direct translation from original languages, abundance of early manuscripts, and historical confirmation from non-Christian sources. He emphasizes that modern translations are getting closer to the original text, not further away, due to the discovery of more ancient manuscripts.
Key Points:
The Bible was not transmitted through multiple translations like a game of telephone, but modern translations go directly back to the original languages
We have more manuscript evidence for the Bible than any other ancient document
Jesus himself affirmed the authority and reliability of Scripture
The Bible’s consistency across 1600 years of writing demonstrates divine inspiration
Modern translations are getting closer to the original text, not further away
Small Group Questions:
Can you remember the first time you read or heard the Bible? What was your impression then, and how has your view changed over time?
Peter faced skeptics who claimed the apostles made up their message. Have you ever had conversations with people who doubt the truth of Christianity? How do you usually respond to those doubts?
The sermon discussed how the Bible is not like the “game of telephone.” What evidence from the sermon stood out to you most regarding the reliability of Scripture? How does knowing this affect your confidence in the Bible?
In verse 19, Peter calls Scripture a “lamp shining in a dark place.” What do you think he means by this? How has the Bible served as a lamp in your own life?
Verse 21 says that no prophecy came from human will but that men were “carried along by the Holy Spirit.” How does this shape your view of the Bible’s divine inspiration? How do you experience the Holy Spirit guiding you today?
The sermon highlighted that Jesus himself trusted and quoted the Bible. Why do you think it’s essential for Christians to have the same view of Scripture that Jesus had? How does that impact your daily life?
If someone asked you, “Why should I trust the Bible?” how would you answer after hearing this sermon? What’s one takeaway from today’s discussion that you can use in future conversations?
Key Verses 2 Peter 1:16-21, Matthew 5:17-18, John 14:26, John 16:13
Application On The Way This week, choose a passage from the Bible and research its historical context, transmission, and preservation. Share what you learn with at least one person who has expressed doubts about the Bible’s reliability.