A common critique often leveled against the Bible is the claim that it contains contradictions. These supposed discrepancies range from differences in numbers or names to apparent inconsistencies in theological doctrines.
As Christians who trust the Bible as God's inerrant word, how should we address these concerns? Let us delve into the so-called contradictions in the Bible.
Contradictions in the Bible or Subjective interpretations by the beholder?
When considering the alleged contradictions in the Bible, it is crucial to recognize that differing accounts of the same event do not necessarily constitute contradictions.
True contradictions would involve the denial of one event by another, which is not the case in the Bible. For example, none of the Gospel writers deny the resurrection of Jesus; they merely provide different accounts of the same event.
A helpful analogy can be drawn from a group of students asked to write a report on their favorite teacher – though their individual accounts might vary, the overarching theme will remain the same.
Similarly, when people point to the so-called contradictions in numbers, such as the number of horses mentioned in the Old Testament passages (2 Samuel 8:4 and 1 Chronicles 18:4), it is essential to remember that these numerical differences do not change the core message or story being told.
Whether there were 100 horses, or 200 horses is ultimately irrelevant to the broader narrative. If the biblical text were to deny the occurrence of the incident altogether, then it would be a contradiction.
Analyzing Supposed Contradictions in the Bible
Now let us have a look at some of the alleged contradictions in the Bible.
Differences in Numbers and Names
Certain alleged contradictions stem from differences in numerical values or names between accounts. For instance, 2 Samuel 24:13 mentions "seven years of famine," while 1 Chronicles 21:12 mentions "three years of famine."
One plausible explanation is that the author of 2 Samuel includes a period of famine that had already occurred in his count, while the author of 1 Chronicles only considers the future period of famine.
Neither of them denies the famine. Denial of the famine by one would be a contradiction, but what we see here is the affirmation.
Varied Gospel Accounts
The four Gospels sometimes present different details or emphases. For example, the accounts of the resurrection morning in the Gospels vary in the number and identity of the women who went to the tomb (Matthew 28:1, Mark 16:1, Luke 24:10, John 20:1).
These differences, rather than being contradictions, can be understood as different perspectives or selective emphases by the Gospel writers.
Each chose to include certain details pertinent to their specific audiences and theological points. Denial of the resurrection of Jesus by any of the Gospel writers would have been a contradiction.
Differing Chronologies
There are places in the Bible where events are not recorded in chronological order. A classic example is the difference in order of creation accounts in Genesis 1 and Genesis 2.
While Genesis 1 provides an overview of the creation week, Genesis 2 focuses on the creation of man and woman, providing additional details. The shift is thematic rather than chronological. This is not a contradiction.
Apparent Doctrinal Discrepancies
Some see a contradiction between the emphasis on God's law in the Old Testament and the focus on faith in Jesus in the New Testament.
However, when properly understood, these are complementary rather than contradictory. The law points out our inability to achieve righteousness on our own (Romans 3:20), while the New Testament emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:22).
Addressing Contradictions with Hermeneutics
Hermeneutics, the science and art of biblical interpretation, provides tools for resolving apparent contradictions.
Considering the context, understanding the genre, knowing the historical and cultural background, interpreting unclear passages in light of clear ones, and recognizing progressive revelation (God's gradual unfolding of truth throughout the Bible) all play crucial roles in correctly understanding the biblical text.
Conclusion
At first glance it may appear that there are contradictions in the Bible. They are not biblical contradictions but complementary affirmation.
These apparent discrepancies do not undermine the Bible's trustworthiness; instead, confirm the events and invite us to engage more deeply with the text.
When examining alleged inconsistencies or contradictions in the Bible, it is crucial to approach the text with a discerning and open mind, understanding that varying accounts or details do not negate the Bible's central message.
The presence of differing accounts in the Bible should not be viewed as detrimental to the reliability or truth of its teachings.
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