In our last newsletter, we've tackled topics like the age of the earth and the global flood described in Genesis. But all these discussions lead us to an even bigger question—can we truly trust the Bible as God's Word?

Is our Bible accurate, reliable, and historically trustworthy, or is it just an ancient book full of myths and legends?

If we're going to place our lives on the truths of Scripture, we need solid reasons for believing its claims. Let's dive in and look at several lines of compelling evidence that show us just how trustworthy our Bible really is.

To begin with, consider how carefully the Bible manuscripts have been copied and preserved throughout history. Skeptics often suggest that many changes were made over time, but the overwhelming evidence proves otherwise.

For example, scholars point out that there are approximately 24,000 manuscript copies of the New Testament alone, all remarkably close to one another.

Most differences in those copies are minor grammatical or spelling variations, none of which affect key teachings. Compared to other ancient writings—such as Homer or Plato—the biblical manuscripts enjoy vastly greater textual support, meaning what we hold in our hands today is essentially unchanged from the originals.

Second, ancient non-biblical historians consistently confirm key Gospel details. Josephus, a prominent Jewish historian, speaks about Christ, His crucifixion under Pontius Pilate, and early believers claiming He rose from the dead.

Roman historians like Tacitus describe the followers of Christ in Rome suffering persecution because of their faith in Jesus—the one crucified under Pontius Pilate.

Having outside historical sources independently echo biblical accounts is powerful evidence supporting the historical reliability of the Bible.

Another important point concerns accusations that the disciples deliberately fabricated their stories. But think logically—if the apostles had invented these accounts, why emphasize their own repeated weakness, doubt, and failures?

Peter famously denied his Lord three times; Thomas openly doubted the resurrection. Almost all the disciples faced severe persecution and martyrdom rather than deny Jesus. Would these men have suffered such fates willingly for something they knew wasn't true? As John Stott once said profoundly, "Hypocrites and martyrs are not made of the same stuff."

Finally, archaeological discoveries continue to confirm countless biblical references to historical figures, places, and events—from excavated city ruins to inscriptions naming biblical characters and events.

Rather than disproving Scripture, archaeology has again and again reinforced its accuracy right down to the smallest details.

The Southern Baptist Faith and Message summarizes biblical authority beautifully: "The Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired… It is a perfect treasure of divine instruction. It has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter."

From manuscript copies to eyewitness testimony, historical references, and archaeology, the evidence overwhelmingly supports our confidence in Scripture.

Friends, the Bible encourages us to use our minds, to seek truth, and to examine evidence. When we do, we find that God's Word stands firm, trustworthy, and true—worthy not just of study, but of building our entire lives upon.

Pastor Justin Wyckoff