In a world filled with many different “holy books”, what makes the Bible so special?
THE BIBLE IS SPECIAL BECAUSE IT IS FROM GOD. Christianity believes and teaches that the Bible alone is the revealed Word of God. Even though it was written by man, the Bible claims throughout that its ultimate author is God Almighty. This claim was not invented by the Church but is the claim the Bible makes for itself.
“But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” (1 Peter 1:25). “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16). “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.” (2 Peter 1:21).
Over 600 times in the Old Testament alone (King James Bible), there are clauses such as, “the LORD spake,” “thus saith the LORD,” “the LORD commanded Moses,” “the word of the LORD came unto Jonah,” “God said,” “God spake,” and “God saith.” Moreover, the Bible claims to be a record of the words and deeds of God, thus the Bible views itself as God’s Holy Word. Scripture contains convincing evidence as being the Word of God.
THE BIBLE IS SPECIAL BECAUSE OF ITS CONTINUITY. It was written over a period of about 1,500 years by more than forty different human authors, in different times and places (including three different continents) using three different languages. These authors came from a variety of backgrounds, including Joshua (a military general), Daniel (a prime minister), Peter (a fisherman), and Nehemiah (a cupbearer).
The authors of the various books wrote in different places such as the wilderness (Moses), prison (Paul), and in exile on the Isle of Patmos (John). The biblical writings were composed on three different continents (Africa, Asia, and Europe) and in three different languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek).
In spite of its diversity, the Bible tells a single unfolding story: God the Son became human; His motivation for this mission trip was love for fallen humanity.
THE BIBLE IS SPECIAL BECAUSE OF ITS UNITY. Although the Bible was composed by man, its unity reveals the hand of the Almighty. The contents of the Bible deal with many controversial subjects. Yet, the Bible is a unit. The unity of the Bible is a strong argument in favor of its Divine inspiration. There is complete harmony, which cannot be explained by coincidence or collusion. The unity of the Scriptures is only one reason among many which supports the Bible’s claim to be the Divine Word of God. Others which could be explained in detail are the testimony of the early church, the witness of history and archaeology, and the evidence of changed lives throughout the centuries, to name a few.
THE BIBLE IS SPECIAL BECAUSE OF ITS TEACHINGS ABOUT JESUS. In the Bible, we learn that Jesus came to earth to love, to forgive, and to make salvation possible by dying in our place. Amazingly, God offers us eternal life free of charge. Our only requirement is to accept Jesus’ free gift by faith.
In contrast, all other world religions teach that we must earn God’s approval and forgiveness by our efforts (works).
From beginning to end, there is one unfolding story of God’s plan of salvation for mankind. This salvation is through the person of Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Jesus Himself testified that He was the theme of the entire Bible.
“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (John 5:39) “For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” (John 5:46-47).
Jesus said in another place: “And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.” (Luke 24:44; see also Luke 24:27).
The Old Testament is the preparation (Isaiah 40:3). The Gospels are the manifestation (John 1:29). The Book of Acts is the propagation (Acts 1:8). The Epistles give the explanation (Colossians 1:27). The Book of Revelation is the consummation (Revelation 1:7). The Bible is all about Jesus.
THE BIBLE IS SPECIAL BECAUSE OF ITS SURVIVAL. The Bible was first written on paper-like material called papyrus and had to be copied and recopied by hand for hundreds of years, yet the Bible remained uncorrupted. We have a mountain of manuscript evidence showing that it was accurately copied throughout the centuries. Many non-believers have tried to discredit or destroy the Bible, but God has preserved it so that we can know Him, love Him, and learn to love others.
THE BIBLE IS SPECIAL BECAUSE OF ITS INFLUENCE. The centuries are even measured from the birth of Jesus! When interpreted correctly, the Bible has produced positive social change and influence around the world.
IN CONCLUSION. Ultimately, the Bible is special because it is God’s Word. It highlights Jesus, tells us our purpose for living, instructs us on how to live, and promises us Heaven if we will follow Jesus in faith. The Bible is special. It is unique. No other book has any such credentials. No other book even comes close.