What Is Biblical Inerrancy and Why Does it Matter?

However, such “contradictions” are often solved by looking more closely at Scripture, the context, background, and other verses.

An example of this is Jesus’ resurrection in the gospels. Detractors claim that the events surrounding Jesus’ resurrection do not line up perfectly across each gospel account.

The fact that they do not align perfectly actually gives validity to the accounts because it shows that they were not involved in a conspiracy.

Instead, each writer presented the facts from their unique perspectives, which is exactly what we would expect from independent writers all recording the same true event — Jesus’ resurrection.

If we carefully study Scripture, we will find that there are no contradictions because God’s Word cannot contradict itself.

2. There are so many different versions available. Which version or translation does inerrancy apply to? This argument and question are based on the faulty assumption that only one translation or version is correct — namely, a specific English translation.

Inerrancy applies to the original manuscripts of the Bible. These are preserved in the numerous copies that we do have access to.

The different English Bible versions available today, such as the NIV or ESV, are based on these copies, which means they convey a reliable translation of the copies of the original manuscripts.

Among all ancient literature, the Bible is the most accurately transmitted. It has been well-preserved by the direct provision of the Lord. We can stand firm in the knowledge that the Bible is dependable and accurate.

3. I trust in the gospel. Does it really matter what I believe about the Bible? A person is saved if they place faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-11). Salvation is not based on anything else.

For example, the thief who placed faith in Jesus while hanging on the cross next to the Lord had no time to study the Bible and develop a thorough theology. Jesus promised, though, that the believing thief would be with Him in paradise (Luke 23:43).

What a person believes about the Bible does not affect their salvation. However, the gospel message comes from the testimony of Scripture (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). We know about Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection because of the accounts recorded in the Bible.

Someone who does not want to believe in the inerrancy of the Bible would have to give the reason they trust the gospel message but not the rest of Scripture.

Why trust one part but not another? Denying the inerrancy of the Bible will negatively affect a believer’s walk with Christ.

Reading and obeying the Bible is essential to a Christian’s growth as a disciple. Therefore, biblical inerrancy is more than a theological concept. The doctrine has practical implications in the Christian life, affecting our discipleship and witness to others.

The need to stand firm on the truth of Scripture is vital in today’s world. Critics abound who want to destroy faith in the Bible and the message it contains. We must be knowledgeable about the doctrine of inerrancy so we can defend the truth and point others to their need for Christ.

For further reading:

What Is the Inerrancy of Scripture?

Do I Have to Believe the Bible Is Inerrant to Be Saved?

What Does it Mean That the Bible Is God-Breathed?

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Sophia Bricker is a writer. Her mission is to help others grow in their relationship with Jesus through thoughtful articles, devotionals, and stories. She completed a BA and MA in Christian ministry which included extensive study of the Bible and theology, as well as an MFA in creative writing. You can read her thoughts about literature and faith at The Cross, a Pen, and a Page Substack, or visit the discipleship-based site  Cultivate, where she writes with her sister.