Biblical Archeology

We don’t need archeology to know that the Bible is true.  Don’t get me wrong: I take the Biblical Archeological Review (one of the few magazines I read through and through!). Indeed, it is because I believe it is unnecessary that I subscribe.  Why? To enjoy the latest in the continuing authentication of biblical facts, as well as new knowledge that often amplifies the text (not authenticates it).

But how do we know Scripture is true?—that is the question. We know because the Spirit of God convinces us of the fact as we hear or read what God says in it. It is self-authenticating.

But archeology also plays another important role as item after item eventually (sometimes it takes a while until people recognize it) testifies to the factuality of the biblical text. Once the Encyclopedia Brittianica declared that there was no such thing as a Hittite nation. In the next edition, it noted the publication of a grammar for the Hittite language.

There are often battles waged whenever a discovery occurs that backs or illustrates biblical facts, but (often after years of debating), at length, the truth of the discovery—which justifies biblical data—is acknowledged by reputable scholars. But, as pleasant and informative as these  occasions are, remember—they are not the basis for the authenticity of scripture. It is God, Himself, Who so works in the heart of those who are about to become members of His kingdom, Who convinces them of its divine origin and enables them to believe.

Study archeology—enjoy it—use it when helpful or informative—but don’t depend on it. The fact is, it may not be until after your death that the claims made for a “find” are verified. What will you do then?

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Institute for Nouthetic Studies Blog on 25 October 2011