In one sense we can answer this question by replying, "Both." The Bible clearly indicates that God involved men in the writing of the Scriptures (Luke 1:1-4, John 20:30-31, 21:24-25, 1 Corinthians 4:14-16, Galatians 6:11, Philemon 19-21, 1 John 1:4, Revelation 1:11). But when considering the origin of the books of the Old and New Testaments, the Bible teaches that the message of Scripture originated in the mind of God.

In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, the apostle Paul wrote, "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."

The word "inspired" means "God breathed". This means that Scripture ("the sacred writings," vs. 15) was spoken or "breathed forth" by God. It originated with God, not with man. Peter spoke to this same point when he wrote,

But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. (2 Peter 1:20-21)

The individual authors of the Old and New Testament books testified repeatedly that their words were not their own, but had been given to them by God. Notice these examples:

The Prophet Amos - "I am not a prophet, nor am I the son of a prophet; for I am a herdsman and a grower of sycamore figs. But the LORD took me from following the flock and the LORD said to me, 'Go prophesy to My people Israel." (Amos 7:14-15)

The Apostle Paul - "If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord's commandment." (1 Corinthians 14:37)

The Apostle Paul - "And for this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received from us the word of God's message, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe." (1 Thessalonians 2:13)

It is truly comforting to know that God has revealed a complete and perfect guide for our lives (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Through the knowledge of His will, we have been given "everything pertaining to life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3). Eternal life is available for all who will get to know this "book of books."

Sunday

Bible Study 9:30 a.m.
Worship 10:30 a.m.
Worship 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday

Bible Study 7:30 p.m.

Send An E-Postcard: