Lesson Description

In this lesson, we will learn what the Bible means when it says that Scripture is inspired by God. We will also understand why inspiration should not automatically be understood as God dictating every sentence to the human authors.

1. Scripture Comes from God’s Inspiration

The Bible teaches that Scripture is given by the inspiration of God. This means that Scripture does not present itself as merely a collection of human ideas about God. It declares that God was at work in giving His Word through human authors.

2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”

Notice that this verse tells us both the source and the usefulness of Scripture. Scripture is given by God’s inspiration, and it is useful for teaching, correction, and instruction in righteousness.

When we read the Bible, therefore, we should approach it carefully and seek to understand what the passage actually teaches rather than simply reading our own ideas into it.

2. God Worked Through Human Authors

Divine inspiration does not mean that the human authors had no role in writing Scripture. The Bible contains different writing styles, experiences, historical settings, and forms of communication.

2 Peter 1:21 (KJV)

“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”

This verse emphasizes that prophecy did not originate simply from human will. The Holy Ghost was at work as God’s message was communicated.

At the same time, the Bib