Theology Terms Explained: “Inspiration of Scripture”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced or synonymous terms.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
Inspiration of Scripture
(in-spuh-RAY-shun)
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: A divine influence or action on a person believed to qualify him or her to receive and communicate sacred revelation.
Expanded Explanation:
The inspiration of Scripture means that the Bible is God-breathed. While human authors wrote the words, God superintended the process so that what they wrote was exactly what He intended. Scripture is not merely inspired in parts or ideas, it is fully inspired in every word. It is therefore authoritative, trustworthy, and without error in the original manuscripts.
The Biblical Connection
2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.”
2 Peter 1:21 – “For no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”
Matthew 5:18 – “For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”
God used real people, real personalities, and real circumstances, but the source is divine.
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“Why do I trust the Bible so much? Because it’s not based on human opinion, it’s inspired by God. That means what it says, God says.”
“The origin of Scripture is the very breath of God.”
“Because God inspired Scripture, we can rest assured that when we obey the Bible we are obeying His voice.”
