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The Challenge of Bible Criticism and Difficult Passages

The Bible, as the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16–17), has faced continuous scrutiny throughout history. Skeptics have pointed to supposed contradictions, errors, and difficulties, claiming there are over 3,000 inconsistencies. However, such challenges are not new, and they do not diminish the Bible’s reliability. Careful study reveals that most of these supposed contradictions are the result of misunderstandings, incomplete information, or cultural and linguistic differences. While there remain a few challenging passages without clear answers, it is reasonable to infer that they too have explanations yet undiscovered.

The prevalence of Bible difficulties should not dishearten Christians. Instead, they should motivate a thorough examination of the evidence, much like an investigator reviewing a case. If many challenges can be satisfactorily answered, it is rational to conclude that even those without immediate solutions are not genuine errors. As Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us, “The secret things belong to Jehovah our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, so that we may follow all the words of this law.”

The Burden of Proof in the Defense of the Bible

When engaging with skeptics, understanding the concept of the burden of proof is essential. The burden of proof lies with the party making a claim. For example, if a Christian asserts that Jesus is the Son of God, it is the Christian’s responsibility to provide evidence for this belief. Conversely, if a skeptic claims the Bible is flawed, they must substantiate their position. This principle, derived from legal reasoning, is critical for effective apologetics.

In the context of evangelism, Christians should provide reasonable evidence for their claims, but they are not required to meet every unreasonable demand. The apostle Peter instructs believers to “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). This defense should be grounded in evidence and delivered with gentleness and respect.

Legal Standards of Proof and Their Application to Bible Evidence

Legal systems employ varying standards of proof depending on the gravity of the claim. These standards can be applied metaphorically to the defense of biblical truth. By examining the evidence within these frameworks, we can build a robust case for the Bible’s reliability.

Reasonable: The Existence of Jesus Christ

At the lowest level of proof, a claim is considered reasonable if it is more likely than not based on the available evidence. Historical and extra-biblical sources overwhelmingly affirm that Jesus of Nazareth lived, taught, and was crucified under Pontius Pilate. Roman historians such as Tacitus, Jewish sources like Josephus, and early Christian writers provide independent confirmation of Jesus’ existence. Thus, it is reasonable to accept that Jesus was a historical figure.

Probable: The Bible as the Inspired Word of God

Moving to a higher standard, the Bible’s inspiration can be seen as probable. Prophecies fulfilled in precise detail—such as Isaiah 53’s description of the suffering servant—strongly indicate divine authorship. Isaiah 53:5 foretells, “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” This prophecy, written around 700 B.C.E., aligns with the crucifixion of Jesus centuries later. The internal consistency of Scripture, despite being written by over 40 authors across 1,500 years, further supports its divine origin.

Preponderance of Evidence: Noah and the Flood

The story of Noah and the flood (Genesis 6–9) has been met with skepticism, yet it meets the standard of a preponderance of evidence. Geological findings of widespread sedimentary layers and flood legends from diverse cultures support the biblical account. While not all details are confirmed, the convergence of data makes it more likely than not that a significant flood event occurred.

Clear and Convincing: Adam and Eve as Historical Persons

The existence of Adam and Eve as historical persons meets the threshold of clear and convincing evidence. Jesus himself affirmed their historicity in Matthew 19:4–6, saying, “Haven’t you read that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?” Additionally, genetic studies indicating a common human ancestry support the biblical narrative of humanity’s shared origin.

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt: Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus

The fulfillment of over 40 major Old Testament prophecies by Jesus establishes his messianic identity beyond a reasonable doubt. These include his birth in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2, Matthew 2:1), his betrayal for 30 pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:12–13, Matthew 26:15), and his resurrection (Psalm 16:10, Acts 2:31). The statistical probability of one person fulfilling even a fraction of these prophecies is astronomically low, underscoring the divine orchestration behind Jesus’ life and ministry.

Addressing Skeptical Objections and Misunderstandings

The Problem of Evil

One common objection raised by skeptics is the presence of evil and suffering. They argue that an all-powerful and loving God would not permit such conditions. However, the Bible provides a framework for understanding this issue. Romans 8:20–22 explains that creation was subjected to futility because of human sin, and suffering serves as a consequence of humanity’s rebellion against God. Furthermore, God uses suffering to bring about greater purposes, as seen in the life of Joseph (Genesis 50:20).

Alleged Contradictions in the Bible

Critics often highlight alleged contradictions in the Bible, such as differences in the Gospel accounts. These differences, however, do not equate to errors. Instead, they reflect the perspectives of different authors writing to different audiences. For example, variations in the resurrection narratives (e.g., Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20) provide complementary details rather than contradictions. Just as eyewitnesses in a court case may provide differing accounts of the same event, the Gospel writers present a fuller picture when their accounts are harmonized.

The Argument from Silence

Another tactic employed by skeptics is the argument from silence, which asserts that the absence of evidence for certain biblical figures or events disproves their existence. This argument is inherently flawed, as the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence. For example, skeptics once doubted the existence of Belshazzar, mentioned in Daniel 5, because he was not found in historical records. However, archaeological discoveries, such as the Nabonidus Cylinder, confirmed Belshazzar’s role as co-regent in Babylon.

The Importance of Investigating Evidence

Christians are called to diligently investigate the claims of the Bible and present their faith with reason and integrity. Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul’s teachings. This same approach should guide modern believers as they engage with skeptics and deepen their own understanding.

Evidentialism, the idea that beliefs should be based on evidence, is a powerful tool for defending the faith. While some critics argue that evidentialism is inadequate, its strength lies in its ability to establish truths beyond a reasonable doubt. For matters of eternal significance, such as belief in God, a thorough examination of the evidence is both necessary and warranted.

Conclusion

The Bible withstands the scrutiny of critics through the lens of legal standards of proof. From the reasonable acknowledgment of Jesus’ existence to the overwhelming evidence for his fulfillment of messianic prophecies, the Bible provides a reliable foundation for faith. Christians must continue to investigate and present evidence with confidence, trusting in the Word of God as the ultimate source of truth (John 17:17).

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).