The Bible: Did God Get It Right the First Time?

By David Wold

The Bible: Historic or hysteric?

Prophetic or pathetic? 

In answer to the above two questions, we unwaveringly support the eternal authority and complete trustworthiness of the Bible. This book examines the historical reliability of the Bible, its relevance for today, and its prophetic panorama for the future. The evidence suppo

• Language: English
• Publisher: Trilogy Christian Publishing
• Release date: Jul 28, 2022
• ISBN: 9781685567248

David Wold

Dr. David Wold has been traveling and teaching the Bible around the world for over forty years. Having visited and taught in 80-plus countries, he has personally witnessed the profound impact of the Scriptures on many peoples and cultures. His prayer is that this book will help you to trust and incorporate the Word of God daily into your life.

Book preview

The

Bible

Can we rely on it?

Did God Get It Right The First Time?

David Wold

Secondary Dedication

This book is fondly dedicated to:

Ross Hillstead, dear departed brother, man of few peers.

Constantine, godly Russian brother and inspiration of diligence.

Dr. Oliver Blosser, spiritual mentor and friend.

May God continue to bless the impact of these men and the profound influence they have exercised over many of their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Primary Dedication

This book is lovingly dedicated to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. He is our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer throughout all of life’s journey. Without Him, man would be without hope in this world. We would remain hopelessly lost in our sins. May we serve Him forever with joy and gladness in our hearts.

Colossians 3:23–24:

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.

Acknowledgments

I would like to acknowledge my deep indebtedness to Mrs. Melanie Berg. She painstakingly reviewed this entire document. With her systematic review and gracious corrections, she improved this document immeasurably. Her loving dedication will surely be noted and rewarded in eternity.

I would also like to thank the editors and publishing staff at TBN for their marvelous assistance in this project. Their expertise enabled this manuscript to come together in a coherent fashion.

Table of Contents

Preface 11

Chapter 1:Worldviews—Do They Really Matter? 15

What Is a Worldview? 15

Creationism Vanquishes Seven Isms of the Devil 40

Application: How Do I Develop God’s World View? 73

The Spiritual Wheel 73

Outside Rim—Obedience 86

Cognitive Conundrum #1 90

Chapter 2:The Bible—A Review of Bible Hermeneutics 91

The Bible’s Claim for Itself 91

A Brief Lesson on Hermeneutics 99

Genres of Literature in the Bible 127

Application 135

Cognitive Conundrum #2 136

Chapter 3: Evidence to Support the Truthfulness of Scripture 137

The Bible Faces Perpetual Attacks 137

Archaeological Evidence to Support the Bible 146

Scientific Evidence to Support the Bible 158

Prophetic Evidence to Support the Bible 225

Application 242

Cognitive Conundrum #3 246

Bibliography 247

Endnotes 251

Preface

The purpose of this volume is to examine the claims of God’s Word, the Bible. We ask the question: Is the Bible truly God’s Word? That is a fair question that must be answered in both objective and subjective terms. Objectivity relies upon provable facts, not mere opinions. Subjective reasoning, although valuable, can be quite misleading. Adherents to false religions and cults around the globe all subjectively agree that their particular religion is the only correct one. All others must turn to follow them. That is the natural human response.

So how shall we best proceed in our quest? First, we will present differences in worldviews. If one’s perspective on worldviews is not accurate, erroneous conclusions will inevitably follow suit. Second, we demonstrate appropriate methods on how to study the Bible. These methods hold true to all manner of literature. They are tried and true. The assorted methods are not arbitrarily snatched out of thin air. Man discovers these principles; he does not simply make them up.

Third, we peruse biblical and extra-biblical evidence to demonstrate the veracity of Scripture. If Scripture is unreliable, then there is no point in reading it or teaching it. Certainly, one need not bother living by its principles. What, after all, would be the point? We shall begin our study with the beginning of time itself. Our primary assumption is that God created the heavens and the earth. He did not use evolution to assist Him in this process. But is there any proof substantiating that primary assumption?

The reader deserves to know our viewpoint from the beginning. In our particular belief system, the answer to that perplexing question of in the beginning, God is an unequivocal, never-compromising yes! But our personal, subjective assessment is not proof of genuine reality. Thus, for the sake of the reader, we shall endeavor to demonstrate from a biblical and scientific analysis how reliable the Bible is. Simultaneously, we shall dip into the ludicrous and unscientific theory of evolution. Is there any empirical evidence supporting evolution? In our studied opinion, the answer is a resounding no! So therein lies our task for this volume.

It is the intent of the author that pastors, teachers, and laypeople alike may benefit from this book both spiritually and intellectually. Major points and teaching subpoints shall be included, which can be used to assist spiritual leaders in presenting this material to others.

Regrettably, many Christians will never read the Bible through even once in their lives while on this earth. Yet the discipline of studying the Bible through individually is vital for Christian growth. Sadly, many Christians throughout the world do not even own a copy of the Bible. That aggravates the dilemma of fully understanding God’s eternal truths.

Simultaneously, others do not apply themselves sufficiently to the copy they are blessed to own. Yet 2 Timothy 2:15 states unequivocally, Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Knowledge of the Scripture is essential for a godly, balanced spiritual life.

The format of this book will be as follows: First, information relating to the biblical account itself will be conscientiously followed to the best of the author’s ability. The author is an uncompromising believer in the complete veracity and authority of Scripture. The system of interpretation will follow a literal, grammatical, and historical method. We shall employ a steadfast belief and reliance on the accuracy of God’s Word.

Second, application on how to actually live out godly principles will be amplified whenever reasonable. Mere intellectual prowess without Christian application tends to elevate pride within the individual. Peter writes that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:5–6). Possessing a vast array of knowledge without love and evangelical purpose accomplishes little. No one has stated this with more ardor than the renowned academic, the apostle Paul.

Paul writes the following counsel on biblical application in 1 Corinthians 13:1–3:

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor; and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.

Third, questions for reflection both for the believer and the unbeliever will be sprinkled throughout the book. The questions will vary in tone and depth. Some may be for purposes of evangelism, others for Christian living, and still others for deeper reflection of a theological truth. With these thoughts in mind, may God richly bless all who immerse themselves in this study. Read prayerfully and strive for personal application. All glory to God!

PS. At the conclusion of each chapter, there will be a Bible riddle, fondly dubbed a cognitive conundrum. These riddles are written by the author. The answer will be listed at the bottom of the same page.

Chapter 1:Worldviews—Do They Really Matter?

In This Chapter

What Is a Worldview?

How Many Worldviews Are Out There?

Creationism Vanquishes Seven Isms of the Devil

Application: How Do I Develop God’s Worldview?

What Is a Worldview?

Definition: In laymen’s terms, a worldview is how you view the world. One might argue that that is a pretty simplistic definition. True! But it does have the benefit of being memorable. A philosopher may indeed come up with something less clear but more impressive sounding. Nonetheless, this brief definition does sum up the matter concisely and accurately. However, for the sake of greater completeness, we shall include a more developed definition offered by Jeff Myers and David A. Noebel, Worldview: a pattern of ideas, beliefs, convictions, and habits that help us make sense of God, the world, and our relationship to God and the world.¹

Before exploring further the concept of worldviews, one must first establish some ground rules on the principle of authority. Without these ground rules, chaos will inevitably reign. Our first concern involves the following question: Who actually has genuine and complete authority in this universe? There are only two viable answers to this question.

Option #1—The God who created this universe, by definition, has total authority. He communicates this authority through His sacred book, the Bible. If option #1 is true, then all of humanity must submit to the teachings of His book. No leeway is allowed for independent living or thinking outside of God’s expressed authority. No amount of ifs, ands, or buts will impress a sovereign and almighty God. His Word is the ultimate expression of truth; it is final!

This option is not as restricting as it may initially sound to the uninformed. In reality, this truth is liberating to the extreme! God’s authority, by definition, establishes a secure framework from which all humanity may safely live out their lives. Without reservation, it is the accepted perspective in this book. It shall be our firm and eternal guide throughout this writing.

Option #2—I am my own authority. What are some of the inevitable ramifications of this view? Let us examine a summary statement briefly: I shall do what I want; I shall think the way I want, and I shall communicate to others however I want.

Aside from not being a realistic perspective (try actually living that way), it ignores another rather important reality. If you are your own boss, so are 8 billion other people who presently inhabit this planet. They also are their own bosses! After all, what makes you any better than them? If we are all a byproduct of evolution, for instance, and not a special creation by an omnipotent Creator, problems inevitably arise. As the British might adroitly articulate, Such a philosophy would put you in a bit of a sticky wicket!

How would this system of being your own boss work? In reality, it would not work at all. It would cause nothing but chaos and injury. What if people could drive through red lights without fear of punishment? That would not make for very safe streets, particularly for the helpless pedestrian. Another discomfiting ramification is that the strongest man indeed should rule! But is the philosophy of might makes right, as upheld in Nazi Germany or Russian communism, truly viable or even desirable? Millions found out the hard way that such a philosophy proved catastrophic.

Should the criminal element be allowed to exercise tyranny over society? Such individuals are often equipped with the most advanced weapons and are also the most brutal. Evil men care little for life beyond their own. Oftentimes they do not even care for their own lives, which makes them even more dangerous.

Such individuals do not hesitate to use force to gain their way. In a rather trite example, should your neighbor have the freedom to steal all the vegetables in your garden? Should he then also have the right to happily trample down what he does not want? Would that not, after all, be his inherent right if every man is his own boss? In a word, yes, it would.

Most gardeners, one ventures to speculate, would find such behavior objectionable. But under this second option, you personally would have nothing to say about it. Not unless, of course, you are bigger, meaner, and stronger than your neighbor. Conflict becomes inevitable if there are no absolutes! That is neither good nor workable.

One can readily see that this viewpoint lends itself to societal and individual slavery. Would you really want to live this way? Aside from brutes and criminals, would anyone? How could teachers teach? How could policemen or judges enforce the law? How could employers depend on their employees to work?

All common sense mandates against option #2. Yet, in spite of that, millions of, shall we say, minimally introspective individuals heartily embrace just such a concept. Thankfully, not all such individuals instantly become violent and force their views on others. For that, we may be grateful. But unfortunately, all too many people do become violent to an excessive degree and demand their way, given the opportunity. That minority is increasing in many countries.

Peaceful protests and individual grievances can lend themselves readily enough to riots, thievery, destruction of property, and loss of life. This is not to say that we oppose genuinely peaceful protests. We do not. But imagine a soccer game or any other sporting activity without referees. Conflict would become almost instantaneous from the moment the ball is placed on the field. That is, lamentably, human nature! If in doubt of that truism, a brief read of Genesis 4 concerning Cain and Abel should remove all lingering doubts.

Some embrace a philosophy that does believe in a supreme being of some nature, whether this being be personal or impersonal, with a big G or a little g. This mere divine supposition, however, does not mean that they properly understand this accepted supreme being. Their divine being may be nothing more than a carved chuck of wood or stone. How can mankind understand anything if there is no foundation in reality? As Psalm 11:3 states, If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? It is our undying premise that these foundations are recorded in the Bible.

Question: What is the difference between such a conjured-up religion as a wood or stone object and a child’s fantasy in devising imaginary friends or making up rules for a game? Answer: Nothing! When one becomes his own god-maker, he has, in reality, just declared himself god.

How does one worship a mere figment of the imagination appropriately? If one is at liberty simply to make up the rules of worship, where is the consistency? How do you know if you are doing it right? Indeed, who can decree if there is a right or wrong? What if another worshipper of the same alleged divine being disagrees with your sentiments? Furthermore, who has the final authority to describe the attributes of this ambiguous caricature of the imagination? From where did they derive this final authority? Did some greater power grant it to them, or did they simply take it upon themselves?

Are the qualities of this god to be determined by a committee vote? What kind of a strange god is that? He certainly could not be classified as eternal or all-powerful. Indeed, this creator god is himself created by the creature! He is subject to the capricious whims of the so-called committee. Should not the being who is declared to be god have the rights to make up his own rules? If he doesn’t, what kind of a god is that? This is folly to the extreme!

If one can mold God into his own personal image, what is the point? The more molds, the merrier. Anything goes! The pseudo-god is solely a figment of one’s own wild fantasies. Why limit yourself to just one? Why should not every human being have the right to create their own god? Would that not be fair? And by the way, who has the right to say what is fair or not?

In reality, the inevitable result of such unauthorized authorization would be religious chaos. Clearly, such a concocted being is no longer divine; he or she or it is merely a human fabrication. That is not only implausible and impractical; it is ridiculous. One cannot make up their own facts! Such an obvious reality stands true regarding both the supernatural and the secular world.

Tragically, such self-made gods were the folly of ancient Israel and many other cultures as well. They made their own dumb, deaf, blind, brainless, and dead gods. They had to even carry them around on carts or on their shoulders because such powerful, homemade gods could not walk on their own. Those cleverly fashioned gods possessed no abilities whatsoever! But that did not discourage the intellectually oblivious fashioner. Such foolhardiness inevitably becomes the plight of man without proper biblical guidance.

One must learn to deal with reality, not fantasy! That is a lesson countless millions have ignored. If there really is a genuine faith based on an absolute God, it would greatly matter what an individual or group believes about that faith. One cannot willy-nilly establish his own rules regarding an eternal and omniscient God. To think otherwise requires a great deal of non-thinking! One’s way of life and salvation depends on an accurate understanding and application of God’s requirements and teachings. Humanity has no freedom whatsoever to dictate terms to an almighty, sovereign God.

Eternal, God-established rules and principles affect all of humanity. Those who deny this fundamental fact do so to their own peril. For instance, a misguided person may believe that he suddenly has the gift of