Question: “Does the Bible contain errors, contradictions, or discrepancies?”

Answer: If you read the Bible at face value without a preconceived bias for finding errors, you will find it to be a coherent, consistent, and relatively easy-to-understand book. Yes, there are difficult passages. Yes, there are verses that appear to contradict each other. We must remember that the Bible was written by approximately 40 different authors over a period of around 1500 years. Each writer wrote with a different style, from a different perspective, to a different audience, for a different purpose. We should expect some differences! However, a difference is not a contradiction. It is only an error if there is absolutely no conceivable way the verses or passages can be reconciled. Even if an answer is not available right now, that does not mean an answer does not exist. Many have found a supposed error in the Bible in relation to history or geography only to find out that the Bible is correct once further archaeological evidence is discovered.

We often receive questions along the lines of “Explain how these verses do not contradict!” or “Look, here is an error in the Bible!” Admittedly, some of the things people bring up are difficult to answer. However, it is our contention that there are viable and intellectually plausible answers to every supposed Bible contradiction and error. There are books and websites available that list “all the errors in the Bible.” Most people simply get their ammunition from these places; they do not find supposed errors on their own. There are also books and websites available that refute each and every last one of these supposed errors. The saddest thing is that most people who attack the Bible are not truly interested in an answer. All they want to do is attack. Many “Bible attackers” are even aware of the answers, but they continue to use the same old shallow attacks again and again.

So, what are you to do when someone approaches you with an alleged Bible error? (1) Prayerfully study the Scriptures and see if there is a simple solution. (2) Do some research using some of the fine Bible commentaries, “Bible defense” books, and biblical research websites that are available. (3) Ask your pastors / church leaders to see if they can find a solution. (4) If there is still no clear answer after steps (1), (2), and (3) are followed, trust God that His Word is truth and that there is a solution that just simply has not been realized yet (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17).

[courtesy of gotquestions.org]