Originally posted by Proper Knob
That surely then is a COMPLETEY different kettle of fish, and something which theists neglect to mention when claiming the Bible is Gods word. For instance i cannot recall ever, but i may be wrong, posts on this forum claiming to be the 'inspired word of God', i always seem to be reading the 'word of God'. A rather large inaccuracy don't you think?!
S ...[text shortened]... ewitnesses', and are not written by the person himself. Surely more idle speculation?
Let me just add that it is my belief that although I view the Bible to have some minor flaws, it is the truth and accurate. For example, the historical accounts have been corroborated by archaelogy by in large. I believe that God worked through Abraham to reach the world, first through the nation of Israel and then the Messiah etc. Also, the major themes ring true throughout the Bible such as faith and love and one God who had a son who came to die for our sins.
As for direct communication, we have the Ten Commandments, written by God's own hand, as well as the teachings of Jesus. Interestingly, there were no penalties for not submitting to the Ten Commandments initially. The Mocaic law came later, so I suppose you could question the authenticity of them hearing from God in that regard, but I beleive they are legit. In addition, Christ did not write of himself, rather, he used the accounts of witnesses. For me, a series of biographies rather than an autobiographies are more believable. In addition, Christ continued to refer to prophecies that spoke of him which are inumerable. For me, these are "evidences" for the authenticity of what he has said and what he has done. What I do know is that he had 12 disciples and taught them and encouraged thme to spread his word so I think there is little doubt as to his intention that they speak of him.
Of course, not every Christian would agree. Many claim the word of God to be innerrant, however, the Bible makes no such claim. The logic goes like this, God is infallible, and the Bible is inspired by God, hence the Bible must be infallible. I would simply say it is a source of truth and an intended way for God to communicate with mankind.