Examining the historical, archaeological, and manuscript evidence for Scripture's reliability and accuracy.
Yes, the Bible is remarkably reliable by any historical standard. The manuscript evidence, archaeological discoveries, and historical accuracy far exceed what we have for other ancient documents that scholars accept without question. The Bible has been transmitted with extraordinary care and precision over thousands of years.
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."
— 2 Timothy 3:16
The New Testament has more manuscript evidence than any other ancient document. We have over 5,800 Greek manuscripts, with some dating as early as 125 AD. The Dead Sea Scrolls confirmed the accuracy of Old Testament transmission over 1,000 years.
"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever."
— Isaiah 40:8
Archaeological discoveries consistently support biblical accounts. Discoveries include evidence of biblical cities, customs, and historical figures mentioned in Scripture. No archaeological discovery has ever contradicted the Bible.
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him."
— Proverbs 30:5
The Bible accurately records historical details that can be verified through external sources. Luke, for example, mentions 32 countries, 54 cities, and 9 islands with complete accuracy. The historical details show intimate knowledge of the times.
"I have not spoken in secret, from somewhere in a land of darkness; I have not said to Jacob's descendants, 'Seek me in vain.' I, the Lord, speak the truth; I declare what is right."
— Isaiah 45:19
The Bible contains hundreds of prophecies that have been precisely fulfilled. The prophecies about the Messiah, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the restoration of Israel demonstrate supernatural foreknowledge that only God could possess.
"I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'"
— Isaiah 46:10
When compared to other ancient documents like Homer's Iliad (643 manuscripts), Caesar's Gallic Wars (10 manuscripts), or Plato's works (7 manuscripts), the Bible's manuscript evidence is overwhelming. Yet these other works are accepted as reliable by scholars.
"Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away."
— Matthew 24:35
Build your faith on the solid foundation of Scripture - God's reliable and trustworthy Word.